Keeping the Wheels Turning: Why Preventive Maintenance Matters

We’re proud to share that our Director of Installation and Services, Anthony Rossi, was recently featured as a contributing author in MetalForming Magazine. The article, Keeping the Wheels Turning,” highlights a critical issue facing today’s press shops: the high cost of neglecting preventive and predictive maintenance on feed lines and stamping presses.

The Hidden Cost of Skipping Maintenance

In the article, Anthony addresses the reality many manufacturers face—late-night maintenance calls, unplanned downtime, and parts that take too long to arrive. While it may seem efficient to push off inspections or repairs in order to keep production moving, the long-term consequences are far more costly

A 2023 GE Digital study cited in the article found the average cost of unplanned downtime in manufacturing can reach $260,000 per hour. In one case Anthony describes, a feed-line failure shut down production for three full days at an automotive plant, resulting in more than $1.2 million in losses, including penalties for late deliveries.

Why Every Press and Feed Line Needs Regular Attention

Anthony emphasizes that feed lines, presses, and ancillary equipment all experience wear and tear, no matter how robustly they’re built. Without regular preventive inspections, minor issues can escalate into catastrophic failures. He reinforces the importance of:

  • Routine inspections and adjustments to ensure peak performance
  • Prioritizing operator safety by maintaining equipment properly
  • Protecting supplier and customer trust by avoiding missed delivery dates
  • Reducing stress and overtime costs for maintenance teams and operators

Voices from the Shop Floor

The article also shares candid insights from those working in stamping facilities:

  • “Every time we delay a maintenance task, I think about the last time we ignored a noise—and the line was down for three days.”
  • “Maintenance is the cheapest insurance policy we’ve got.”

Read the full article here

Our Commitment

At COE Press Equipment, we know that long-term profitability depends on reliability. Anthony’s perspective reflects our commitment to helping customers reduce downtime, extend machine life, and maintain safe, productive operations through robust service and support programs.

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