The HI-13 tandem accelerator, located at the Beijing Tandem Accelerator National Laboratory, has been in operation for 35 years. To ensure the continued performance of the accelerator, the operation and maintenance team has prioritized focus on various aspects. The operation team conducted research that involved developing key components, cultivating a high-quality operational team, improving the machine time efficiency, and increasing the participation of users outside the China Institute of Atomic Energy (CIAE). The primary emphasis has been on developing key components and upgrading subsystems. These efforts have successfully maintained and improved the accelerator's performance, ensuring its safe and stable operation. Finally, the paper alse discusses the challenges faced by tandem accelerators and presents future development plans.