QR code technology in equipment repair and record keeping

In an industry where uptime is critical and equipment complexity is growing, Bulk Conveyor Inc. (BCI) is leveraging QR code technology to simplify maintenance, enhance safety, and streamline spare parts management for feed and grain facilities.

Brett Buchanan, CFO of BCI, joined the Feed & Grain Podcast to explain how the company’s heavy-duty chain conveyors and bucket elevators now come equipped with durable QR code stickers. These codes link directly to an online portal packed with detailed information about each piece of equipment — from operation and maintenance instructions to safety guidelines and spare parts lists.

“We basically saw a need for this QR technology,” Buchanan said. “Maintenance managers are retiring, and new people aren’t always familiar with the equipment. This platform gives our end customers an encyclopedia of that piece of equipment at their fingertips.”

The QR codes are designed to withstand harsh environments typical of grain and feed facilities, with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Once scanned, users gain instant access to everything they need without having to hunt down manuals or call for support.

“It’s a huge time saver,” Buchanan explained. “You don’t want to have to go back to the office when you’re 200 feet in the air looking at a machine. Some customers didn’t even know where their drawings were. Now, they can use our equipment to its full potential, minimizing downtime.”

The system also helps ensure accuracy when ordering spare parts. “There’s no gray area,” Buchanan said. “Every single spare item is listed. You can scan the QR code, see the bill of materials, and order the right part within 45 seconds.”

BCI offers QR code stickers not only on new equipment but also as retrofits for existing conveyors and elevators, free of charge. Replacement stickers are available if the originals become damaged.

Beyond maintenance, some customers have used the QR platform to track safety logs. For example, one milling company records chain tensioning dates via the QR code, creating a maintenance history accessible to all relevant personnel.

“It’s elementary but powerful,” Buchanan said. “Just having the ability to scan a code and immediately call a real person at BCI — not a call center — has been a big value add.”

With many facilities facing workforce shortages and stretched maintenance teams, this technology helps new and roaming employees quickly familiarize themselves with equipment.

Buchanan emphasized that BCI continuously gathers customer feedback to improve the system’s user interface and functionality, aiming to stay at the forefront of feed equipment innovation.