Variables such as the dimensions of the end product, target production volume and the type of input material can pose real challenges when choosing the proper machine setup for a new piece of equipment. Having an expert who understands your applications and regional conditions can be a real advantage, particularly when it comes to tub or horizontal grinder setup and operator training.
Brad Van Rheenen, Recycling and Forestry specialist at Vermeer Wisconsin understands the challenges you face when adding a new machine to your operation. He has extensive experience making sure the machine delivery and setup process runs smoothly with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
Brad took time out of his busy schedule to discuss how the Vermeer Recycling and Forestry specialist provides operator training and helps with proper machine setup.
What is the role of the Recycling and Forestry specialist during machine delivery and setup?
The Vermeer Recycling and Forestry specialist helps you hit the ground running with operator training on delivery day.
The actual delivery and setup process varies quite a bit depending on your familiarity with the machine. But the first step is predelivery. This includes scheduling a time for the shop to go through the proper machine setup adjustments for the initial use. The shop verifies that the machine is greased properly and filled with fuel. If it is a demo machine, the shop makes sure it is current on service.
The Recycling and Forestry specialist then arranges a time when you can be available for the delivery. It is preferable for your technician and operator to be present.
First, service training is discussed. This involves reviewing maintenance that needs to be completed on a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis to help with long-term durability. The Recycling and Forestry specialist goes into as much detail as possible about what it takes to help keep the machine working properly.
Next, operator training is discussed. This starts with a safety briefing that includes a discussion on thrown object zones and industry practices. This is followed by training on basic machine operation. Once everyone is comfortable with how the machine works, the operator training will turn to more complex settings that may be application specific. This could include how to produce a specific product size and the benefits of specialized screens. This topic may not be covered in depth at the time of delivery since the Recycling and Forestry specialists are always available to address these questions as they arise.
Can proper machine setup vary according to the type of work being performed and the region of the country?
The better your Recycling and Forestry specialist understands your business, the better they can train you on how to make the machine do what you need it to do. There’s a variety of end products. For example, in the Northeast, the mulch specification is much smaller than in many other parts of the country. Even in Wisconsin, particularly in southern Milwaukee, the requirement for mulch sizing is tightening up and getting smaller than in other areas. In the Michigan Upper Peninsula, the material doesn’t need to be as small.
By understanding your region and what your end user is demanding for a product, the Recycling and Forestry specialist can help you choose the screens for proper machine setup prior to delivery.
How can proper machine setup impact productivity?
Proper machine setup helps make your operation more productive. It is possible to use the wrong configuration of screens in a machine for certain types of material. This may result in the screens plugging up and the machine being less efficient. You could end up burning excessive fuel.
Van Rheenen recently visited a customer who owned a Vermeer HG4000 horizontal grinder. The customer thought the end product and the production were great. After watching the machine run, Van Rheenen knew better. He asked to look inside the hammer mill. Most of the upper screen was plugged. The screen configuration was incorrect for the high-moisture product going into the grinder. Some changes were made and some screens were turned around. At the end of the day, they were still getting a product they liked and production more than doubled thanks to Van Rheenen’s expertise.
How long does it typically take to set up a new grinder for a job site?
Delivery and proper machine setup times can vary depending on your familiarity with the machine and the application. Van Rheenen typically plans for a whole day. If a customer needs him to be there again on the second day, he will be there.
The setup and the walkaround usually takes two or three hours. Then the Recycling and Forestry specialist spends another two to three hours running the machine with the operator, if needed.
How involved is the Recycling and Forestry specialist in operator training?
The Recycling and Forestry specialist is very involved in operator training. They will cover maintenance and operation. They will also explain what could happen if the operators don’t do what is expected.
Operator training is an ongoing service. Once a machine is delivered and set up, the Recycling and Forestry specialist typically fields many questions. One of the most common calls is about the end product. The Recycling and Forestry specialist’s expertise can be used to fine-tune the end product specification to suit the end customers’ requirements.
The Recycling and Forestry specialist is also there to help in the event of operator turnover. If your operator decides to go to work someplace else, the Recycling and Forestry specialist will be there to train their successor.
What is the role of the Vermeer Recycling and Forestry specialist after initial machine delivery and setup?
After your machine is properly set up and working, your Recycling and Forestry specialist becomes your liaison with parts and service. They will frequently visit the jobsite to make sure there are no issues and are just a call away to answer any questions your operators might have.
The Recycling and Forestry specialists have also been known to provide service-related reminders as critical deadlines approach.
Contact your local Vermeer dealer to connect with a Recycling and Forestry specialist.
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