Nine Essential Skills Every Skilled Trades Worker Needs When employers across Canada report skill shortages, the issue extends beyond technical proficiencies such as welding, electrical systems, or mechanical repair. The missing piece often lies in a set of foundational, transferable skills that en

When a facility notices elevated vibration levels, the most common culprit is fan rotor unbalance. Modern balancing instruments, paired with data‑collection and analysis software, can quickly pinpoint and correct the issue. Consider the case of a carton‑manufacturing plant that had operated without

This contest is proudly sponsored by J/E Bearing and Machine Ltd. By entering, participants agree to comply with these official rules, all eligibility requirements, and acknowledge that the outcomes, as determined by J/E Bearing and Machine Ltd., are final and binding. The contest adheres to all app

Cleaning projects blend science and safety. Cleaners vary in reactivity, speed, and disposal requirements. Some pose health risks, while others are non‑toxic. Below are expert‑approved guidelines for selecting and using cleaners while protecting your well‑being. TIP 1 | CHOOSING THE RIGHT CLEANER

In food‑processing plants, the choice of drive system can significantly influence how easily equipment can be cleaned and sanitized. This article explores the cleaning challenges faced by the industry and offers guidance to help manufacturers select drive solutions that keep production running smoo

Extra‑long conveyors present unique operational challenges, especially when running at slow speeds below 10 m/min. A common issue is stick‑slip – a longitudinal vibration of the chain that can halt production and erode product quality. Stick‑slip occurs when the chain’s contact surfaces alternately

A heavily contaminated bearing may appear unremarkable, yet for maintenance professionals it signals a critical issue—34% of bearing failures are driven by contamination. Bearings operate under extreme conditions across mining, mineral processing, cement, pulp & paper, metals, and other heavy‑proce

A machine shop is a dedicated workspace equipped with tools and machinery for machining—cutting, shaping, and finishing parts to exact specifications. These facilities serve both production and repair functions, fabricating new components for industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to heavy

Manufacturing is among the 10 best jobs that don’t require a degree, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The department projects a 17 % growth in industrial machinery mechanics, maintenance workers, and millwrights over the next seven years—meaning qualified candidates can expect strong job

At 7 a.m., operators at Maritime Pride Eggs in Amherst, NS, powered up the egg‑grading line. Three minutes later the loader, which picks up 60 eggs at a time and feeds them into the sorter, began dropping eggs. Operators immediately shut down the machine. Maintenance supervisor Mike Eagles, the pla

Bearing seals are indispensable when paired with grease lubrication. They keep grease free of contaminants, preventing accelerated wear and extending bearing life. While most seals block debris from entering, some are engineered to allow a controlled grease ‘weep’. This weeping action carries conta

Replacing V‑belts with synchronous belts in air‑handling systems is now a proven best practice for cutting energy demand in industrial and commercial facilities, according to a recent U.S. Department of Energy study. Why are synchronous belts considered “green”? A V‑belt drive starts out at 95‑98 %

Why Mobile Video Collaboration Matters In today’s globalized manufacturing landscape, every minute of equipment downtime translates directly into lost revenue and inflated travel expenses. When a critical machine fails on a plant floor in Asia or a remote oil rig, sending an on‑site expert can cost

Cold storage facilities depend on continuous, fault‑free cooling to preserve product quality and protect revenue. A single unplanned outage can cost a business thousands—or even millions—of dollars in lost inventory and reputational damage. The compressor is the heart of any ammonia refrigeration

Worm gearboxes are widely used as an economical solution for high, single‑reduction gear ratios in machine drives and conveyors. They are tolerant of frequent start‑and‑stop cycles and load variations, making them a common choice for food‑processing equipment. In mixers and packaging lines, worm ge

We often lean on familiar sayings to guide our decisions. While these proverbs hold value, applying them literally can sometimes hinder progress. Below each maxim is paired with a modern, evidence‑based perspective that offers practical insight for today’s professionals. The early bird gets the fi

AC motors are engineered for minimal upkeep, yet proactive reliability maintenance—covering both mechanical and electrical facets—is vital for a long, dependable service life. Studies reveal that more than 50% of motor failures originate from mechanical causes, making careful bearing lubrication an

London, Ontario – a 30‑minute drive south of Tillsonburg – is more than a sports town. Home to the London Knights, the birthplace of John Labatt, and a training ground for NHL stars like Rick Nash, Corey Perry and Brendan Shanahan, it is also a leading manufacturing center. Our machine shop has ben

As Canada’s economy rebounds, companies are increasingly investing in CMMS training and people development. To help you launch a program that runs smoothly, I’ve compiled a set of proven planning tools. Think back to the training sessions you’ve enjoyed. A clear agenda, well‑structured materials, a

Since September 2014, we’ve been publishing daily blogs that cover manufacturing, maintenance, and company news. Over the years, these posts have become trusted resources for industry professionals. We track engagement closely, so our “Top 5” list is based solely on the highest‑viewed posts. Browse