RS Enhances Reliability of Mechanical Power Systems with Smart Predictive Maintenance Solutions

[Cengiz Özemli]

## RS Enhances Reliability of Mechanical Power Systems with Smart Predictive Maintenance Solutions

RS offers comprehensive smart maintenance solutions and industrial-grade components to enhance the reliability of mechanical power systems, leveraging advanced technologies for industrial customers.

Mechanical power systems, comprising geared motors, gearboxes, motors, bearings, couplings, belts, and drives, form the backbone of industrial operations. Failures in these systems can lead to unscheduled production downtimes, resulting in high costs averaging $260,000 per hour. Thanks to predictive maintenance supported by IIoT sensors, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics, these risks can be significantly reduced, and equipment life extended.

### Advantages of Predictive Maintenance

Industrial manufacturers gain tangible benefits from predictive analytics, such as reduced unplanned downtime, fewer planned maintenance requirements, and extended equipment life. Furthermore, these strategies alleviate the pressure of urgent interventions on maintenance teams, offering solutions to staffing issues.

### Smart Automation Products Supported by RS

RS offers a variety of smart automation and control products for discrete and process manufacturing, material handling, packaging, and HVAC applications, aiming to reduce mechanical stress, optimize energy efficiency, and improve system performance.

### Durable Geared Motors Suitable for Frequent and Harsh Environments

In the food, beverage, and chemical sectors, system reliability can be compromised, particularly due to hygiene and washdown requirements. The Bison 261 Series SANIMotor, with its stainless steel housing (IP69K rated), triple lip shaft seals, and food-grade H1 grease, provides long-lasting and hygienic operation without requiring maintenance. These motors are suitable for conveyors, mixers, and pumps requiring high hygiene.

### Efficient Power Transmission with High-Performance Belts

Belts are often a point of failure in mechanical systems. Advanced synchronous and V-belt technologies offer clean operation, high efficiency, and low maintenance advantages.

The Gates Poly Chain GT Carbon synchronous belt, thanks to its polyurethane construction and patented carbon fiber cords, provides high power capacity, resistance to chemicals and abrasion, and reliable performance between -54°C and +85°C. These features make it ideal for demanding conveyor and pump applications.

### Smart Vibration Monitoring for Early Fault Detection

Wireless vibration and temperature sensors help detect imbalance, misalignment, and lubrication problems before they turn into failures.

SKF Axios sensors continuously monitor machine health and transmit data to cloud-based analysis platforms, while SKF QuickCollect devices enable data collection during routine inspections. These solutions can reduce downtime by up to 35%.

### Soft Starters Protecting Motor and Drive Systems

Direct-on-line motor starts can lead to torque shock, voltage fluctuations, and mechanical wear. Soft starter devices reduce these risks by gradually increasing the supply voltage, ensuring process stability and extending equipment life.

The Eaton S811+ and S801+ series, with their compact designs and built-in overload protection, support the smooth operation of three-phase motors up to 1000 amps.

### Towards Smarter Mechanical Power Systems

By combining high-quality mechanical components with smart sensor, automation, and control technologies, RS enables manufacturers to increase uptime, improve energy efficiency, and protect their critical assets. With technical expertise and a broad product portfolio, RS supports industrial customers in their transition from reactive maintenance to data-driven predictive maintenance.