Posted on June 13, 2022 at 11:24 AM by Crystal Harrison
Tips to prolong your equipment life in fertilizer environments
Machinery is expensive to own and operate.
Units in highly corrosive environments, such as cooperatives working with fertilizer, will need to give special attention towards their daily maintenance. Failure to properly maintain your units in these environments will not only damage your equipment but may also void any manufacturer or dealer warranties you may have on it.
Keep it clean!
Most fertilizers that are commonly used in agriculture contain the three basic plant nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Some fertilizers also contain certain "micronutrients," such as zinc and other metals, which are necessary for plant growth. Although less abrasive, manure is also another commonly used fertilizer.
While all these materials may enhance the soil, they can also wreak havoc on your machines!
Keeping your equipment clean will prolong the lifespan of the unit.
It is recommended to first blow off dry fertilizer with an air compressor or large leaf blower in between uses to avoid build up. Don’t use water at this point, as using water can activate the chemicals and damage the equipment further.
Don’t do a full wash on the unit until you are done using it. Make sure you do a thorough job of removing the fertilizer residue with soap to avoid corrosion. Using a pressure washer with heat is also a benefit. There are additional corrosion protection products on the market as well that you can add into your routine to prolong the life of your equipment.
Store your clean equipment in a dry covered area away from your fertilizer building to avoid accumulating new dust residue.
If your unit develops cracks and paint starts to chip or fade, prime the spots and repaint with a protective coating to restore to avoid rusting.
Grease your moving points as needed to avoid binding
Be sure to always read your owners operating manual for additional care instructions to keep your equipment in good running condition.
Don’t forget, our service department is here for you should you have any questions regarding the maintenance of your equipment.
