Offices in all industries need to have a trusted paper shredder. From a patient’s medical history to a business’s financial data, professionals need to safeguard client and business details. This cannot take place without a reliable form of data destruction.
Large paper shredders defend against data breaches and compromised information. Following these steps to maintain the performance of your office’s large paper shredder keep sensitive information secure.
Oiling the Blades
The enemy of shredder blades is friction. As the cutting heads slice through stacks of documents, paper dust accumulates and dries out the metal assembly. The motor slows down, and the internal gears struggle to function.
Oiling the shredder blades solves this problem. For heavy-duty models, apply oil every time you empty the waste bin or at least twice a week. Use an oil specifically formulated for shredders rather than standard lubricants that attract dust and damage the mechanism.
Apply the oil by running a stream across the feed opening or soaking a sheet of paper in shredder oil and running it through. Run the machine in reverse for 15 seconds to distribute the lubricant evenly.
Managing Waste Capacity
Allowing the shredder bin to overfill causes mechanical stress. Shredded paper backs up into the cutting assembly as the blades cut the same paper repeatedly. As a result, the motor overheats and the cutters become dull.
Check the waste level frequently throughout the day. Many units have sensors that alert you of maintenance needs, but vigilance is the most reliable maintenance method. Empty the bin before it reaches capacity to prevent paper jams and motor burnout.
Following Sheet Capacity Limits
Every machine has a maximum sheet capacity rating. Feeding more sheets than recommended puts excessive strain on the motor and gears. While it seems faster to force a thick stack through, this practice shortens the lifespan of the equipment.
If a machine accommodates 20 sheets, aim for 15 to 18 sheets per pass. This buffer reduces the load on the motor and minimizes the risk of jamming.
Cleaning the Sensors
Dust accumulation interferes with the automatic start/stop sensors. When these optical eyes become covered in paper dust, the machine may run continuously or fail to start when you insert paper.
Use a dry cotton swab or compressed air to clean the sensors located in the feed entry. Perform this simple cleaning task monthly to maintain responsiveness.
Cooling Down Periods
Even heavy-duty motors generate heat during operation. Continuous shredding for extended periods triggers thermal protection circuits that shut down the machine. Respect the duty cycle specified in the user manual.
If the machine feels hot or sounds strained, stop shredding immediately. Allow the unit to cool down for at least 30 minutes before resuming. It’s the best way to prevent thermal damage to the internal components.
Protecting Your Investment
Offices avoid downtime and keep data secure with fully functional big office shredders. Adhering to these steps will make it easy for the large shredder to sustain peak performance.
If your current shredder isn’t operating efficiently or needs a major upgrade, contact Capital Shredder. We offer shredders that feature large waste bins, high capacities, and secure paper destruction. Take a look at our expansive selection and find a model that will improve your office’s workflow.
