RS advances mechanical power system reliability with smart predictive maintenance solutions
IIoT-enabled sensors, smart drives and high-performance components reduce downtime and extend equipment life.
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RS, a global product and service solutions provider for industrial customers, is helping manufacturers strengthen mechanical power system reliability with a comprehensive portfolio of smart maintenance technologies and industrial-grade components designed to support predictive maintenance (PdM) strategies.
Mechanical power systems — including gearmotors, gearboxes, motors, bearings, couplings, belts and drives — form the backbone of industrial operations. Failures in these systems can trigger costly production interruptions, with unplanned downtime averaging up to $260,000 per hour. By implementing predictive maintenance powered by IIoT sensors, machine learning, AI and advanced analytics, manufacturers can significantly reduce operational risk while improving efficiency and asset longevity.
Predictive maintenance delivers measurable gains
Industrial manufacturers leveraging predictive analytics report substantial benefits, including reduced unplanned downtime, fewer scheduled repairs and extended equipment lifecycles. PdM strategies also help address workforce challenges by reducing urgent repair demands and easing pressure on understaffed maintenance teams.
RS supports these initiatives with a broad selection of smart automation and control products engineered to minimize mechanical stress, optimize energy usage and improve system performance across discrete and process manufacturing, material handling, packaging and HVAC environments.
Durable gearmotors for harsh environments
In washdown-intensive industries such as food, beverage and chemical processing, contamination and moisture can compromise system reliability. The Bison 261 Series SANIMotor gearmotor line is built for sanitation compliance and rugged durability, featuring an IP69K-rated stainless steel housing, triple-lip shaft seals and food-grade H1 grease for maintenance-free operation. These gearmotors are well suited for conveyors, mixers and pumps operating in high-hygiene environments.
High-performance belts for efficient power transmission
Belts remain a common failure point in mechanical systems. Advanced synchronous and V-belt technologies offer cleaner operation, higher efficiency and lower maintenance compared to traditional roller chains.
The Gates Poly Chain GT Carbon synchronous belt combines polyurethane construction with patented carbon-fiber tensile cords to deliver high horsepower capacity, resistance to chemicals and abrasion, and reliable performance across extreme temperatures from –54°C to +85°C. These attributes make it ideal for demanding conveyor and pump applications.
Smart vibration monitoring for early fault detection
Wireless vibration and temperature sensors provide actionable data to detect imbalance, misalignment and lubrication issues before they escalate into failures.
SKF Axios sensors continuously monitor machine health and transmit data to cloud-based analytics platforms, while SKF QuickCollect devices enable route-based data collection during routine inspections. Together, these solutions support early fault detection and can reduce downtime by up to 35%.
Soft starters protect motors and drivetrains
Across-the-line motor starts can create torque shock, voltage dips and mechanical wear. Soft starters mitigate these risks by gradually ramping up supply voltage, improving process stability and extending equipment life.
The Eaton S811+ and Eaton S801+ series offer compact, retrofit-friendly designs with built-in overload protection and run bypass contactors, supporting smooth operation of three-phase motors up to 1,000 amps.
Enabling smarter mechanical power systems
By combining high-quality mechanical components with smart sensing, automation and control technologies, RS enables manufacturers to enhance uptime, improve energy efficiency and safeguard critical assets. Backed by technical expertise and a broad global portfolio, RS supports industrial customers in transitioning from reactive maintenance to data-driven, predictive strategies that strengthen long-term operational resilience.
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