Spare parts planning

How to plan for spare parts inventory in grinder maintenance, ensuring minimal downtime and smooth café operations.

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Article 11 of 12 in Grinder Calibration & Maintenance/
Spare parts planning

Why Spare Parts Matter

  • Grinders are critical workflow tools—failure can halt service.
  • Common wear parts (burrs, gaskets, declumpers) degrade over time.
  • Planned spare parts management reduces emergencies and lost revenue.

Common Spare Parts to Stock

  1. Burr Sets: Flat or conical, depending on grinder model. Replace after manufacturer’s rated lifespan (often 500–1500 kg).
  2. Declumpers / Flappers: Rubber or silicone parts prone to wear and oil buildup.
  3. Hopper Lids & Gates: Breakable plastics.
  4. Gaskets & Seals: Maintain airtightness and prevent leaks.
  5. Motors & Bearings (Advanced): For heavy-use commercial settings—often requires technician.
  6. Electronic Boards / Displays: Less common but critical for modern grinders with digital controls.

Planning Strategy

  • Usage-Based Forecasting: Estimate part lifespan based on kg of coffee ground weekly.
  • Critical vs Non-Critical Parts: Prioritize burrs, declumpers, and gaskets as high-turnover.
  • Service Intervals: Align spare parts with scheduled maintenance (e.g., quarterly burr checks).

Storage & Organization

  • Label parts clearly with grinder model compatibility.
  • Keep in a clean, dry, organized bin near service area.
  • Log replacements with date and reason to predict future needs.

Example Café Plan

  • Grinder output: 100 kg/month.
  • Burr lifespan: 800 kg → replacement every ~8 months.
  • Stock: 2 burr sets, 3 declumpers, 5 gaskets per year.

Summary

Spare parts planning ensures cafés stay operational even during grinder failures. By forecasting usage, stocking high-turnover parts, and maintaining organized logs, baristas and managers can minimize downtime and protect consistency in daily service.

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Coffee Basics Nerds

Written by : Coffee Basics Nerds

Expert coffee historians and brewing enthusiasts dedicated to sharing the rich heritage and techniques behind your perfect cup of coffee.

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