In today’s industrial environment, where automation and precision are key to operational efficiency, machinery protection has become essential to prevent mechanical failures, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure workplace safety.
However, many companies continue to use generic protection solutions, which, while they may offer a basic barrier against contaminants and wear, are not always tailored to the specific needs of each piece of equipment. In this context, customized industrial protection has become a strategic investment for companies seeking to optimize their production and extend the lifespan of their equipment.
At Lluis Creus, we develop customized industrial protection solutions, guaranteeing optimal performance and adapting to each type of machinery.
Why is off-the-shelf protection not enough?
Standard guards are designed to cover a wide range of industrial applications, but they don’t take into account the unique conditions of each piece of equipment or the specific challenges of each work environment.
Limitations of Off-the-Shelf Guards
- Lack of precise fit: Standard guards don’t always fit each piece of equipment perfectly, leaving open spaces where contaminants can enter.
- Non-optimized materials: Some guards may not withstand chemical agents, high temperatures, or constant abrasion.
- Reduced durability: Off-the-shelf designs often wear out more quickly, increasing the frequency of maintenance and replacement.
- Impact on accuracy: In high-precision equipment, inadequate guarding can affect process stability and performance.
- Increased risk of mechanical failure: Debris buildup and contact with external agents can cause premature failure of screws, linear guides, and hydraulic cylinders.
To ensure efficient and safe operation, it is essential to have protections specifically designed for each type of machinery and operating conditions.
Advantages of custom industrial guarding
Custom guarding solutions offer several key benefits compared to generic options, enabling greater efficiency and safety in industrial processes.
1. Precise fit and complete coverage
Custom guards are designed to the exact dimensions of the equipment, ensuring that each moving component is fully covered and protected. This prevents open spaces where contaminants such as chips, dust, or coolants can enter.
2. Material selection based on the environment
Each industry presents specific challenges, such as high temperatures, humidity, exposure to harsh chemicals, or highly abrasive conditions. Custom industrial guarding allows you to choose durable materials suitable for each environment, such as:
● Silicone bellows for thermal resistance.
● Stainless steel coil springs for corrosive environments.
● Aluminum shutters for maximum protection on machine tools.
● Flexible sleeves to protect hydraulic cylinders from oils and abrasive particles.
3. Greater durability and less maintenance
Custom-made industrial guards are designed to withstand the mechanical wear and tear and extreme conditions each machine faces. This translates into a longer lifespan and less need for corrective maintenance, reducing operating costs.
4. Optimized performance and precision
In high-precision machinery, such as lathes, milling machines, and CNC machining centers, a poorly designed guard can generate vibrations or affect component alignment. Custom-made guards ensure that the equipment operates without interference, maintaining process stability and precision.
5. Regulatory compliance and occupational safety
The use of certified protective equipment adapted to current regulations allows us to meet industry safety standards. At Lluis Creus, we design protective equipment that complies with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, reducing the risk of accidents and improving safety in the workplace.
Customized protection solutions for every need
Protection solutions must be tailored to each type of equipment and application. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about how to choose the best protection for each case.
How to protect screws and linear guides on CNC machines?
Screws and linear guides are essential components for machining precision and require protection that prevents the entry of chips and dust.
Recommended solution:
● Custom metal spirals, designed according to the screw diameter and the type of debris generated.
● Custom bellows, with oil- and coolant-resistant materials to prevent dirt buildup.
What protection is recommended for lathes and milling machines?
Lathes and milling machines generate a large amount of metal debris and cutting fluids that can affect equipment performance.
Recommended solution:
● Aluminum shutters tailored to the size of the machine, which provide a mechanical barrier against impacts and debris.
● Metal coils specific to each type of lathe or milling machine, ensuring a perfect fit.
How to prevent premature wear in hydraulic cylinders?
Hydraulic cylinders are in constant motion and exposed to oils, dust, and abrasive particles, which can reduce their lifespan.
Recommended solution:
● Custom-designed flexible sleeves that allow expansion and contraction without compromising protection.
● Materials with high chemical resistance, suitable for exposure to hydraulic fluids.
What solution should be used to protect machinery in high-temperature environments?
High temperatures can affect the durability of certain protective materials.
Recommended solution:
● Reinforced silicone bellows, designed to withstand extreme temperatures without losing flexibility.
● Heat-resistant metal shutters, ideal for machinery operating in furnaces or thermal environments.
How to ensure safety when protecting older machinery without the CE mark?
Older machines that do not comply with CE regulations require additional protection systems to meet current safety standards.
Recommended solution:
● Design certified custom guards to adapt the machine to current regulations.
● Specific bellows and covers to prevent entrapment risks and exposure to contaminants.
Conclusion
Generic industrial protection solutions may be a temporary alternative, but they do not guarantee effective and long-lasting protection for machinery. In an industrial environment where precision and safety are essential, customized protection is the best investment to extend the life of equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and improve operational safety.
At Lluis Creus, we develop custom protection for each industrial application, ensuring a perfect fit and materials suitable for each environment.
If you are looking to optimize the protection of your machinery, contact us for advice and to learn about our customized solutions.