Proper maintenance of your CNC machines is essential for a successful machining operation. The practice will promote efficient performance of the equipment which translates into higher productivity. The servicing tasks will also prevent premature breakdown and complete failure of your machinery. Consequently, you will be able to avoid unexpected downtime and high repair charges. Here are some simple guidelines on preventative maintenance for CNC machines.

Lubricate the Components

There are multiple moving components in all CNC machines designed for manufacturing purposes. These should be lubricated or greased regularly to ensure smooth movement and performance. If the surfaces of pertinent parts are dry, friction will be generated during operation. This will translate into premature wear of the affected surfaces. In addition, your machines will become more prone to overheating and subsequent damage. You should note that the wrong lubrication could affect functionality. Therefore, check the owner’s manual for suitable recommendations.

Clean the Machine

You should inspect the CNC machine and perform housekeeping tasks after every shift. Typically, when the equipment is used for any work, chips of the raw materials and other forms of debris will fall on the surfaces. Moreover, most workshops and industrial set-ups are exposed to environmental dust and dirt. If the machinery is not cleaned, these small materials will flow into the moving components. When another shift is carried out, the accumulated dirt and debris will cause friction and wear and might even damage other sensitive internal systems. Daily clean-up will prevent these detriments.

Service the Peripherals

Numerous accessories and peripheral components are incorporated into CNC operations to promote productivity and convenience. These can include cooling systems, chip conveyors and work-holding fixtures. While these are not per se part of the primary equipment, they can affect overall performance. Therefore, you should perform servicing tasks for them as part of your maintenance program. For example, you should ensure that your work-holding fixtures are aligned, the coolant nozzles clear and chips cleared. This will minimize total operational downtime.
When establishing a preventative maintenance program for your CNC machines, you should take into account the schedule recommended by the manufacturer for optimal results.