Maintenance contracts pay off, even though ”our devices last an incredibly long time”

Regular maintenance isn’t just about safety – it extends the lifecycle of scraper systems and saves money. With Finnchain’s service agreements, equipment stays operational for decades.

Sometimes maintenance work requires creativity and more specialised working methods. Even life jackets.

Finnchain has signed maintenance contracts with customers to ensure the longevity of their equipment.

"The Kakolanmäki Wastewater Treatment Plant handles a lot of wastewater every year. Because of the high volume, we service all their scrapers once a year. At other sites, we carry out a maintenance check every year or two, depending on the contract. For example, we check the condition and tension of the chains and any other wear and tear. We make the necessary adjustments and replace worn parts. If anything major is found, we book an appointment for repairs," says Iiro Vahala, Sales Manager.

Rarely is anything major found, because ”our devices last an incredibly long time”, as Vahala puts it. The best example he has seen is a tank that had been in service for sixteen years without maintenance or drainage.

”But even that equipment is still running after a bit of maintenance and replacement of parts”, says Vahala.

In many places, replacing certain spare parts could extend the life of the scrapers. Regular maintenance prolongs life, reduces problems and saves money," says Vahala, who is responsible for domestic installations and maintenance.

Experience Builds Insight and Trust

Each tank is unique. The size of the tank and the amount of sand carried along with the sludge, for example, affect the maintenance requirements.

"We have two installers who also do the maintenance work. They know the tanks and the equipment inside out," says Vahala.

The same goes for him. Vahala worked as an installer for nine years before moving into his current role.

"I can memorise our equipment, installation and maintenance even while sleeping. I already knew the customers, so it was natural to move into sales," says Vahala.

Scraper systems and linked products are not sold “off the shelf”, but to a small target group with a real need.

"The industry is narrow. Everyone knows what works well. It makes my job easier that Finnchain is known as a company," admits Vahala.

He says he very loyal to the company he works for. One proof of this is that Vahala is currently finishing his engineering studies at Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences. The final thesis is on productisation – for Finnchain, of course.

"We want to offer more to our customers. I'll be responsible for designing the new product when it gets to implementation," says Vahala.