Unusual end-of-year events in the industry
The end of the year is often synonymous with slowing down, holidays and reflections.
But in the industry, this period sometimes holds a few technical and organizational surprises.
Production peaks, specific stock strategies, machine behavior in the face of cold… Here are some unusual end-of-year facts in industry, which illustrate how industrial performance never stops.
A peak in industrial activity just before Christmas
Contrary to popular belief, many industrial sites reach their maximum level of activity at the end of the year.
The sectors concerned include, in particular:
- The manufacture of industrial machinery,
- Packaging solutions,
- Logistics and automation,
- Equipment intended for production lines.
Objective: To absorb the increase in end-of-year orders, deliver before the annual closures and prepare for the January restarts.
Result: Machines under continuous stress, in a short period of time, where the reliability of mechanical components is essential.
Cold: An ally… or an enemy for industrial machines
Another surprising fact: Cold can sometimes improve mechanical performance.
In certain industrial applications, lower temperatures allow for:
- Improved dimensional stability of materials,
- A reduction in mechanical play,
- Increased accuracy on systems subject to tight tolerances.
However, the opposite effect also exists.
Temperature variations, humidity, and condensation can lead to:
- An increased risk of corrosion,
- A degradation of conventional lubricants,
- Premature wear of mechanical parts.
Hence the importance of choosing components capable of functioning effectively regardless of the season.
Industrial "holiday stockpiles": A well-established strategy
As the end of the year approaches, many industrial companies are implementing strategies to secure their stocks.
Before annual shutdowns or supplier closures, everything is anticipated:
- Critical pieces,
- Strategic components,
- Consumables essential for production.
These "special holiday" stockpiles help to avoid:
- Unplanned line closures,
- Supply disruptions,
- Productivity losses during sensitive periods.
Machines that operate on their own during the holidays
One last unusual fact, yet very real: Some machines continue to operate during the holidays, without any human intervention.
This is particularly the case for equipment incorporating self-lubricating components, such as METAFRAM rings, distributed by Soenen Industrie.
Thanks to their technology:
- Lubrication integrated into the material,
- No additional oil is needed.
- Controlled wear,
- Reliable operation even in difficult access areas.
These components allow for continuous production, even when workshops are empty or understaffed.
Industrial performance, even at the end of the year
These unusual events serve as a reminder of a crucial reality: In industry, the reliability of mechanical components is critical, especially during critical periods such as the end of the year.
At Soenen Industrie, we support manufacturers with reliable, durable technical solutions adapted to seasonal constraints, thanks in particular to METAFRAM self-lubricating rings.
📞 Do you want to secure your equipment, reduce maintenance and guarantee the continuity of your production all year round? Contact us to discuss your needs.