Maximise Time Savings by Using a Paper Shredder with the Correct Specifications
Choose the Right Specification of Paper Shredder and Enjoy the Benefits
Shredder Running Time and Cool Down Time - This is an important specification that purchasers researching shredder brands ask, what is the length of time the machine can be operated for?
There are various terms manufacturers state in their specifications to express the maximum length of time a shredder can operate for, including:
"Duty Cycle"
"Run Time"
"Continuous Duty"
"24 Hour Continuous Duty"
"Operating Time"
"Maximum Run Time"
all of the above terms being the maximum duration of time the machine can continuously shred for.
What happens when the maximum duration is reached? The shredder usually automatically stops, triggered by a thermal motor protection switch which is activated once a preset temperature value is reached.
Why does the shredder stop once a preset temperature value is reached? Put simply this function is a measure of protection to prevent overheating the motor which could potentially cause damage.
Essentially the shredder is in an Overheat State once stopped after reaching its maximum operation time. Usually a thermometer symbol on the control panel will illuminate or flash, alerting the operator the machine is in a cool down mode. It's normal for the shredder to reset automatically once the motor has cooled down enough with no further action required. With a manual feed or auto feeding shredder, once the thermometer symbol has disappeared, just resume shredding again as normal.
Some shredder brands specifications do not disclose Maximum Running Time and just about every shredder brand have never disclosed the cool down time. This lack of important information makes it even more difficult in determining the best brand and model of paper shredder for your needs. That said, in our 30+ years of experience supplying and exposure to the many brands of paper shredders available, our findings are that most cool down periods vary from 30-90 minutes.
Choosing a shredder with a longer the run time, will help avoid the Maximum Run Time being reached and the obvious inconvenience the goes with the waiting to cool down enough to resume shredding.
Is the shredder Fit for Intended Purpose? - Deciding on the right shredder with enough run time is even more important when purchasing an auto feed paper shredder, why? Although auto feed paper shredders are an incredible time saver when used properly, it takes significantly more time to shred a stack of sheets compared to shredding the same stack through a manual feed shredder.
Important Points to Be Aware of When Purchasing an Auto Feed Paper Shredder
If an auto feed shredder requires approximately 4-6 minutes to shred a 100 sheet stack of paper, consider these realistic scenarios:
Scenario 1 - 100 sheet capacity machine with a 10 minute running time and requirement to shred 300 pages each time you use the machine.
Outcome 1 - 3 inefficiencies that will negate the time savings of this specification of shredder including:
1: Overheat Mode will be reached at approximately half the shredding required, causing interruption waiting for the shredder to cool down enough to use again.
2: The shredder will require loading 3 times.
3: Likely emptying will be required.
Scenario 2 - 300 sheet capacity machine with a 60 minute running time and requirement to shred 300 pages each time you use the machine.
Outcome 2 - No inefficiencies using this specification of shredder.
1: No Overheating
2: No Reloading
3: No Emptying
Office Noise - From Chatty Colleagues to the Distractive Hum of Office Equipment, it can be Tough to Focus.
Because distractive noise in the office can be a productivity killer, a very quiet shredder that can be used any time in the office no matter what's happening is a must and can be a missed opportunity to increase productivity.
Because auto feed paper shredding is not an instant process, it's highly important the shredder does not cause any distractive noise, enabling all users to shred at any time not matter how few or many people occupy the office.
Need Advice? - For information on the extensive, time saving range of automatic paper shredders available, contact Shredder Sales by LiveChat or on:
Phone: 1800 808 880
Email: info@shreddersales.com.au
