CNC Machine Maintenance

CNC machines are numerically controlled by computers. These machines are automated with their operations instructed through computer programs.

Machines tend to wear out in course of time and also develop problems which can aggravate if they are not provided timely maintenance services. CNC machine maintenance should be performed on a regular basis – daily, weekly, quarterly, half yearly and annually depending on the machine and its usage.

Daily maintenance service is necessary for the smooth functioning of CNC Turning and other machines. As part of the daily services, you need to ensure that the hydraulic pressure remains at 4.5 MPa. You should also need to make sure that the hydraulic fluids maintain their stipulated operational standards.

It is also important to see that chuck pressure remains at the prescribed level. The lube level also needs to be replenished if it has been depleted due to routine consumption.

Ensure that the cooling systems of the CNC machines work at its desired and optimum levels. The chips in the chip pan should be thoroughly cleaned and greased, wherever necessary.

As part of the weekly maintenance service, the service provider will also perform task such as removing filters of the CNC control cabinet and cleaning them thoroughly to enable a free flow of air.

Quarterly service of all machines, including CNC Turning machines, becomes due after 500 hours of operation.

You would also need half-yearly maintenance service once the machine usage crosses 1,000 hours. Certified CNC machining engineers should perform the following tasks:

• Ensure that the tank of the coolant is cleaned of sludge chips and oil.

• Remove the chuck and jaws off the machine and clean them thoroughly.

• Drain the hydraulic tank off the old hydraulic oil and fill it with the fresh oil at the fixed level. Change the line and suction filters.

• Clean the radiator and ensure that its fins are straight.

• Drain out the lubrication unit, clean it and fill it with fresh lubricant.

• Drain out the cooling unit and refill it.

• Check the level of the machine and adjust it if needed.

• Check the wipers for any damage.

• Clean the right wipers and replace the damaged ones.

CNC Turning and other machines would also require annual maintenance for the following services. As part of your annual package, make sure that the engineers check for the following in CNC Turning and other machines.

• Check the headstock and tailstock for taper.

• Check the spindle for radial and end play.

• Check the chuck cylinder and ensure it works smoothly.

• Ensure that the turret parallelism and inclination work properly.

• Check the backlash in X and Z axis and gibs and adjust them if needed.