Faulty or inefficient air conditioning systems in large mobile equipment on mines, and at quarries and bulk earthworks sites can lead to costly loss of production. Harsh operating conditions and extreme weather conditions on remote sites further increase the risk of unexpected work stoppages and undermine productivity.

Avoiding downtime and ensuring functional and efficient air conditioning is dependent on regular and professional maintenance, says Booyco Engineering.

“The whole operation is dependent on functional and efficient air conditioning,” he says. “Achieving this through regular and professional maintenance is not difficult, but many companies do not give this work the priority that it deserves,” highlights Booyco Engineering MD Brenton Spies.

He disputes that it is a financial issue, because the actual cost of good maintenance pales into insignificance compared to the cost – and reputational risk – associated with load and haul equipment standing idle during an unplanned breakdown. Something as simple as a clogged filter presents a safety risk, and keeping it clean minimises the risk of fire, short circuits and malfunctions.

“Avoiding downtime is not the only reason for conducting scheduled maintenance,” he notes. “Well-maintained air conditioning equipment is also more energy efficient – so it delivers ongoing savings to the operation while performing better for the operator.”

It also adds to the life of the air conditioner, reducing overall cost of ownership. When this equipment is maintained properly, argues Spies, it can last up to 15 years.

The company has a range of maintenance offerings. A monthly service involves cleaning of return and fresh air filters, checking for leaks and functional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) testing, while a bi-monthly service also includes blowing out the condenser coil. In a three-monthly service, a chemical cleaning of the condenser is done, as well as checking of wiring, fasteners, V-belt tension, gas leaks and refrigerant pressures. In an annual service, a compressor oil level check is added, and a chemical cleaning of the evaporator coil is undertaken.

“We can provide service level agreements for customers, after surveying their equipment and advising on the appropriate maintenance schedule,” says Spies. “We offer all customers a 24/7/365 service, with a response time of just 12 hours where there is not an MOS in place.”