How to Maintain a CNC Machine

BySteven Glassner

We all are familiar with the machines like lathe, milling, drilling, etc. These machines require human involvement to perform and be monitored. This way, it consumes more time and has less accuracy. To overcome this problem CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) machines were manufactured.

 

CNC machines can be defined as the machines that are controlled by computer and the operations are performed by inserting the program. You can consider them as the brain of the whole manufacturing process.

 

This makes it even more important to maintain them, because if it goes down, all the other processes will stop working. Such failures can cost businesses thousands of dollars because they have to instantly find the replacement parts, manage missed deliveries, etc. 

 

To avoid such situations what we can do is focus on the maintenance of the machine on a regular basis. And if any part requires replacement you can easily find good quality Mazak parts, Fanuc parts, etc. online.

 

Moving further, let us learn about CNC machine maintenance in detail.

 

What Parts of CNC Needs Maintenance?

The maintenance of the CNC machines is not as complicated as it sounds. It is simple but critical as no company can afford the cost a small mistake can cause. Hence, here is the complete list of the maintenance steps you need to consider.

 

Coolant: The parts of the machine move fast and this means it will generate heat. So a fixed coolant level must be maintained otherwise these parts can get damaged. If they get damaged you can find good quality Mazak parts, Fanuc parts, etc. online.

 

Cooling Oils: The speed of the spindle is around 10,000 RPM and it is obvious that it will produce heat. Thus, to avoid this thermal energy a right cooling system with the right concentration of oils is needed.

 

Lubrication: The moving parts of the machine can get dry and might need lubrication to reduce unwanted friction. Thus, using oil or grease on the parts moving smoothly. The other fluids like hydraulic fluid in the CNC machine also need replacement. If the machine consumes fluid excessively, then it indicates that the machine may have some problem.

 

Surfaces: The grime will build up on the surface if not cleaned regularly. To ensure a clean working environment, a good grip and proper visibility in the room, clean windows, doors, handles, etc. are important.

 

The other thing that you need to care about is the sound of the machine. If the machine is having any slight mechanical failure, it will sound differently. You should always consider it as a red flag and check it intensively. And if any parts need replacement, you can easily find Mazak replacement parts, Fanuc replacement parts, etc. online.

 

How Often Do You Do Maintenance Checks?

A CNC machine’s sensors, detector system, etc. also gives signals if anything is wrong. Apart from that you must indulge in a routine based on the hours of machine used. To save yourself from doing all the tasks at once, you can divide these tasks strategically.

 

We have made a list for you but can change the time intervals as your work requirements and usage of the machine. 

 

Daily Maintenance tasks:

  • Check lubrication levels and refill if needed
  • Any part that looks dry must be greased
  • Check coolant concentration and level; add more if required
  • Empty chip hopper
  • Check hydraulic system levels
  • Clean surface and the surroundings

 

Monthly Maintenance:

  • Clean or replace air filters
  • Clean coolant filters
  • Clean radiators
  • Clean cooling fans
  • Review the checklists for unusual oil consumption
  • Adjust chains or conveyors

 

Yearly Maintenance:

  • Completely remove coolant tank and take out metal chips to check for bacterial growth
  • Inspect and clean the system
  • Check hydraulic oil for contaminates
  • Replace filters
  • Drain and clean lubrication unit and refill new oil
  • Check drawbar tension and chuck cylinder
  • Replace the X and Y axis gibs if needed under backslash program

 

Wrapping Up

All CNC machines perform different tasks but the processes like coolants, lubrications, filters, etc. are common for almost all CNC machines. Even if a small breakage happens your in-house team will be able to repair it in no time if you already have replacement parts of your CNC machine handy. You will easily find the Mazak replacement parts, Fanuc replacement parts, etc. Hence, this way it ensures your delivery schedule is not affected.