While CNC machine maintenance may not seem like an exciting task, it must be done regularly: Like all machines with complex moving parts, CNC machines used by CNC experts you find when you visit http://www.cam-machine.com/cnc-machining/ require regular check-ups in order to remain in peak working condition. CNC machine maintenance should be performed daily, with a few additional measures to be taken every few months and twice per year. If you use your machine very frequently, however, it is advised that you perform maintenance even more often than this: Every 500 hours and 1000 hours, respectively.
CNC Machine Maintenance Checklist
Every day, you should:
Look at your machine’s hydraulic pressure and make sure it’s set to 4.5 Mpa.
Check your machine’s hydraulic fluids to verify that they’re at the correct operating level.
Take a moment to check and see if the chuck pressure is at the right operating level as well.
Verify that the lube level is at the right operating level; if it is not, you will need to top it up again before using your machine.
If your CNC machine has a cooling system, top up the cooling fluid as necessary. If it does not have a cooling system, make sure you have an adequate supply of external coolant.
Clean the chips out of the chip pan and clear away any debris from your machine’s light and window/door area.
Check for any parts which are not operating smoothly and grease them. (Note that you should also wipe down your way covers and lubricate them.)
Check to see if your machine’s filter needs to be cleaned (on average it will need to be cleaned once a week, or after about 40 hours of use).
Every few months, you should:
Grease your machine’s chain (located on the chip conveyor).
Clean out your machine’s coolant tank filters.
Every six months, you should:
Take your machine to a professional for more in-depth maintenance. The professional you choose will perform various thorough cleaning tasks, such as:
Cleaning out the coolant tank and the lubrication unit so that both are free of caked-on sludge and debris.
Removing the chuck and jaws and cleaning them.
Draining the hydraulic tank and completely refreshing its oil supply. The maintenance professional will also change the line filter and suction filter.
Cleaning the radiator and checking the fins for alignment problems.
Draining and refilling the cooling unit (if your machine has one).
Adjusting the levelling of your machine if necessary. Your maintenance professional may suggest other adjustments be made to your machine as well, such as checking the head and tail stocks for taper.
Inspecting the way wipers for damage; replacing damaged wipers.
Remember that regular maintenance is absolutely essential to the health of your CNC machine; machines which are compromised by dirt, debris, and alignment issues are highly prone to becoming damaged by routine operation. The speed at which these machines cut, drill, etc. means that they are subjected to considerable stress during operation and a single malfunctioning part can therefore lead to significant problems. Routine home care and professional maintenance are therefore the best ways to safeguard your investment.
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