Crawler Tech Tips: Maintenance Equals Performance & Reliability

Crawler systems and tractors might be relatively new technology, but – once introduced – soon become an indispensable element of NDT testing, maintenance and repair. These robust robotics are built to last, but the typical harsh environments of deployment mean that regular maintenance is needed for optimal performance.

Maintaining the Maintenance Tools: the key to uninterrupted processes

Remote visual inspection (RVI) relies on ever-advancing technology. Well-maintained assets are productive, cost-efficient and crucial to ensure high levels of safety and maximum profits. The increased dependence on the technology requires the tools to be ever-present and reliable.

Regular, proactive inspection is proven to increase asset and equipment mean time before failure (MTBF) and allows for more accurate scheduling of maintenance tasks. The mainstream use of robotics is what makes this possible – yet not applying this same forward-thinking approach to the inspection tools themselves is not only poor practice but can have a catastrophic knock-on effect.

The failure of an advanced inspection tool mid-task can potentially take an asset offline for a long period – perhaps even longer than it would’ve taken for a traditional inspection task to take place. Yet one issue that inspectors often report is that they can’t afford for their tools to be offline. But without regular maintenance and servicing they can’t be expected to operate at an optimal level – and the likelihood of a complete breakdown also increases.

So, what’s the answer?

One defining way forward is to rent or lease inspection equipment. That way, regular servicing becomes part of the agreement. Not only will the leasing company provide the recommended care package, but – in the event of breakdown or failure – replace the tool to ensure continuity of inspection tasks.

The benefits this brings are many, such as:

• Optimal performance: Regularly maintained inspection equipment works as it should, ensuring the speediest inspections and most accurate data.
• Access to the latest technology: The world of robotics is advancing at a tremendous pace. Leasing equipment allows for regular upgrades, meaning inspectors can carry out tasks in the most effective manner possible.
• Reliable continuity: Well-maintained inspection tools work reliably and, should there be a breakdown, a swift replacement or repair inspectors will ensure minimal impact on their workload.
• Testing opportunities: The best leases rovide inspectors with the opportunity to try out new technology and inspection tools as they become available.
• Enhanced professional reputation: Inspection contractors can’t afford to be hampered by equipment failure. A reliable lease model provides peace of mind that unexpected inspection tool breakdown won’t impact scheduled tasks or the inspector’s reputation.
• Bespoke inspection solutions: Partnering with a proactive equipment provider, such as Nexxis, provides world-leading technical expertise should a tailored inspection solution be required.

Renting or leasing crawler technology from Nexxis is an effective and dynamic way to ensure equipment reliability, as well as providing 24/7 servicing to ensure minimal downtime. We also offer an efficient repair service for owned equipment.