BAKING & SNACK PRO TIPS 1 master THE SETSCREW Pro Tip: Follow this checklist to make sure your setscrews stay in their proper position to prevent costly downtime. by Rowdy Brixey IN YOUR BAKERY, 99% of everything that rotates on the production floor is held in place by some type of fastener, the most popular of which is the setscrew. No preventive maintenance routine can be complete unless these simple components are checked and managed properly. Once a setscrew is allowed to run loose, the fitment will become worn, thus tightening the setscrews creates a " camshaft " effect that promotes vibration and ultimately additional loosening and other component failures. Here is a Pro Tip checklist for mastering the setscrew: 1. Check setscrew tightness monthly. 2. Replace repeating loose setscrews. 3. Only use knurled setscrews. 4. Practice proper torquing techniques. 5. Replace components that have loose fitment. 6. Consider switching to QD or taper-lock bushings and bearings with self-centering locking collars. 7. Never use locking adhesives on setscrews because they can feel tight when they really aren't. In the end, remember: Having a screw loose will only drive your maintenance crew crazy. Editor's Note: Baking & Snack Pro Tips is a weekly online column featuring expert advice from leaders in the baking industry. Rowdy Brixey is founder and president of Brixey Engineering. He writes on operational and maintenance efficiencies. Find more of his columns at bakingbusiness.com. 26 | INSIDE IBIE Rowdy Brixeyhttp://www.bakingbusiness.com