Prior to implementing the Martin Engineering components, the Macuspana facility utilized a mix of belt cleaners without tensioners and cleaning systems fabricated in-house, with ineffective results. Spilling approximately 6 tons (5.4 metric tons) of solid and liquid material per month, the process had to be monitored by a full-time employee who reported daily on spillage volume and potential hazards. Twice per month a four-person crew required a full shift of downtime to clean up piles of material and sludge from around the conveyor frame.