A used corrugation machine can be a money-maker for small and mid-sized packaging units—but only if it runs reliably. Unlike new machines, used ones require extra care to stay efficient and avoid costly breakdowns. The good news? With the right maintenance routine, you can extend machine life, improve board quality, and maximize ROI.
Here are the essential maintenance tips every owner of a used corrugation machine should follow.
1. Stick to a Daily Cleaning Routine
- Remove paper dust and debris from rolls, gears, and conveyors. Accumulated waste can cause overheating and misalignment.
- Check glue units daily—hardened glue can clog applicators and affect adhesion quality.
- Wipe down electrical panels to keep them dust-free.
👉 Pro tip: A 15-minute daily clean saves hours of downtime later.
2. Monitor Rolls and Bearings Closely
- Inspect corrugating rolls for wear, dents, or uneven flute formation. Replace or regrind when board quality drops.
- Lubricate bearings regularly to prevent overheating. Excessive vibration usually signals worn bearings.
- Keep spare bearings handy—these are the most common failure points.
3. Don’t Ignore Alignment
Misaligned rolls or shafts mean poor board quality and higher waste.
- Check alignment during every maintenance cycle.
- Use dial indicators or laser alignment tools for accuracy.
- Re-align immediately if operators report board warping or poor flute bonding.
4. Keep Glue Systems Healthy
Glue application is critical for bonding liners and mediums.
- Maintain correct temperature settings—too hot or too cold affects adhesion.
- Clean glue rolls and pans daily to prevent buildup.
- Replace worn doctor rolls to ensure consistent coating.
👉 Poor glue control = rejected boxes = profit loss.
5. Electrical & Control Checks
Used machines often have older electricals, making preventive checks vital.
- Inspect wiring for burns, loose joints, or makeshift fixes.
- Test limit switches, sensors, and PLCs monthly.
- Keep spare contactors, relays, and fuses in stock.
6. Schedule Preventive Maintenance, Not Just Repairs
- Daily: Cleaning, lubrication checks, quick inspection.
- Weekly: Alignment checks, belt condition, electrical panels.
- Monthly: Full inspection of rolls, bearings, motors, and glue units.
- Quarterly: Deep inspection and calibration by a skilled technician.
👉 Waiting for breakdowns is the costliest maintenance strategy.
7. Train Your Operators
Often overlooked—operator behavior determines machine health.
- Train staff to report unusual noises, vibrations, or heating early.
- Standardize shutdown/startup procedures.
- Teach basic troubleshooting to reduce unnecessary downtime.
8. Stock Critical Spares
Don’t wait for breakdowns to order spares. Maintain an inventory of:
- Bearings
- Belts & pulleys
- Glue rolls & doctor rolls
- Electrical relays, fuses, and contactors
- Common fasteners and couplings
Even a few hours of downtime can wipe out margins on urgent orders.
Final Word
Used corrugation machines can deliver excellent ROI if maintained properly. The formula is simple:
- Clean daily.
- Lubricate and align regularly.
- Keep spares ready.
- Train operators to act as the first line of defense.
With discipline, a used machine doesn’t just survive—it thrives, keeping your packaging business competitive and profitable.