In industrial production and equipment maintenance, turning (also known as manual turning) is a seemingly simple yet crucial operation. It involves manually or with auxiliary tools turning rotating parts (such as motor and pump shafts) to check their flexibility, lubrication status, and potential faults. Although this process is often considered routine, its impact on equipment safety, lifespan, and operational efficiency cannot be ignored.
First, turning is an effective means of preventing mechanical failure. After extended periods of equipment downtime (such as after maintenance or during winter idle periods), bearings, gears, and other components may seize due to insufficient lubrication or corrosion. Manual turning can detect abnormal rotational resistance and noise in advance, preventing forced starts that could burn out the motor or damage the drive system. For example, in the chemical industry, starting a centrifugal pump without turning can cause severe vibration due to impeller seizure, even leading to seal failure and fluid leakage.
Second, turning helps optimize equipment startup conditions. Turning allows operators to confirm that there is no frictional interference between the rotor and stationary parts (such as the housing and seals) and ensure appropriate clearances between the rotor and the stationary parts. This step is particularly crucial for large units (such as steam turbines and compressors), as it prevents startup accidents caused by assembly errors. Furthermore, regular cranking evenly distributes the lubricant film, reducing dry friction wear during startup.
Finally, cranking is a manifestation of standardized equipment maintenance. Many companies incorporate cranking records into their inspection procedures, predicting component degradation trends by comparing historical data (such as torque changes). This "look, listen, ask, and feel" diagnostic approach, while not relying on high-precision instruments, can effectively extend equipment lifecycles and reduce the risk of unplanned downtime.
In summary, cranking is far from a frivolous process; it is a critical practice in equipment management that "sees the big picture from the small." Only by prioritizing this fundamental step can we lay a solid foundation for safe production and efficient operations.