Imdepa distributes Draper WCCO mats throughout Brazil

Focused on delivery availability and proximity to agribusiness customers, Imdepa now offers Draper WCCO Raptor Conveyors in its portfolio. Patented technology, Raptor Technology, now under the Continental brand, stands out in the market for its exceptional durability, the result of its innovative design and high-quality materials. This combination offers greater resistance to tears and greater protection against punctures, and is chosen by leading manufacturers of harvesters and other agricultural equipment that require continuous and uniform movement of materials.

The special canvases of Draper WCCO Conveyors bring significant benefits to agribusiness, such as superior resistance to tension and abrasion, optimized flexibility, resistance to extreme weather conditions and less stretching over time. One of the items most subject to wear and, consequently, the need for replacement, conveyors must generally be replaced before the start of the harvest and after it ends, ensuring productivity.

This care does not eliminate regular inspections during harvesting, seeking to identify premature wear and unexpected failures. “It is necessary to consider the type of crop, the number of hectares harvested, the climate conditions and the intensity of use”, says André Luz, product manager at Imdepa. Cracks or fissures on the surface, dry appearance of the rubber, noises during operation and wear on the sides, for example, are indications of the need for replacement.

Luz highlights that premature wear can occur due to problems such as:

• Incorrect alignment of rollers and pulleys

• Excessive tension applied to the tracks

• Contact with unforeseen abrasive surfaces

• Prolonged exposure to severe weather conditions

• Operation on crops for which the equipment has not been calibrated

• Use of incompatible or low-quality components.

To resolve these issues, he suggests implementing a rigorous preventive maintenance program, training operators to recognize early signs of wear and making specific adjustments for each type of crop, in addition to adequate storage of equipment during periods of inactivity, using only original or recommended parts and components, and monitoring operating conditions and necessary adjustments.

Another problem that can occur is sudden losses, which can interfere with the harvest season. “It is important to be aware of a series of common causes of losses,” he says. They are:

• Impact of foreign objects such as stones or metals;

• Sudden system crash due to material overload;

• Structural failure due to previously undetected wear;

• Extremely incorrect tensioning;

• Manufacturing defects (rare cases);

• Operation under extreme conditions without appropriate adjustments.

• As preventive solutions, the following are suggested:

• Perform detailed visual inspections before each period of intensive operation;

• Implement load sensors and automatic stop systems when available;

• Keep strategic spare parts in stock, especially during harvest;

• Strictly follow the recommended preventive replacement schedule;

• Train operators to recognize auditory or visual signs that precede failures;

• Document maintenance history to identify equipment-specific wear patterns.

Another fundamental aspect is that management makes operational checklists, containing the following items:

• Daily inspections before operation;

• Weekly checks recommended;

• Detailed monthly maintenance;

• Essential pre-harvest procedures;

• Post-harvest care for preservation;

• Specific adjustments by crop type (soybean, canola, cotton, sugar cane and beans);

• Maintenance record system.

“Being able to count on Draper WCCO Mats provides peace of mind during harvest time; however, it is essential to follow the precautions listed above to ensure productivity”, summarizes Luz.

More information on imdepa.com.br