Belgian industry is running at a low level. In the third quarter an average of 73 percent of production capacity was used. That means well over a quarter of machines are idle. This is the lowest level since April 2020, the start of the coronavirus crisis. This is reported by Metaal Magazine, based on figures from the National Bank of Belgium, analysed by De Tijd.
Where the differences lie
According to the report, capacity utilisation is 75.3 percent in Flanders and 67.1 percent in Wallonia. The metal industry, iron and steel processing, building materials production and mechanical engineering stand out in particular. Since measurements began in the late 1980s, capacity utilisation in manufacturing has been lower in only four quarters than it is now. According to the article, lower capacity utilisation points to weaker demand or demand expectations.
Downtime as a maintenance window
For anyone managing a machine park, a quiet period also has a practical side. A machine that runs less is easier to shut down for maintenance. This is especially true for the parts that wear gradually and that you would rather not touch during full production: the cable carrier, the cables inside it and the entries in the cabinet.
Three things you can do in such a period:
- Map your cable carriers. Note the series, type, dimensions and cables for each machine. Then you know what is needed if something does break. How to go about it is explained in cable carrier maintenance: how to make a plan.
- Check the carriers. Play in the links, grinding dust, more sag or cables that rub are signs to deal with now. With the Carrier check you can go through the checkpoints in a few minutes.
- Replace what has long been on the list. A carrier that is worn along its entire length can be replaced now without costing production. With the Replacement finder you can find a suitable type for the dimensions of your current carrier.
In Belgium too
Wisman Techniek also supplies cable carriers, cables and dress packs in Belgium. With our maintenance and inspection service we inspect cable carriers on site and record the condition of each carrier, including carriers of other brands. In Ruurlo we have more than 5,000 items in stock, and stock ordered before 14:00 often leaves the same day.
