CNC Repair
You may have noticed a burnt edge on a CNC machine tool. Or perhaps an area on a production workpiece that’s not as smooth as it should be. Either of these problems will likely result in either an adjustment or a repair. Problems rarely occur with CNC machines due to their advanced engineering and highly reliable construction.
Since the 1950s when CNC machines were invented, the durability and reliability of CNC equipment have become legendary in industry. When repairs are needed, it’s important to identify the source of the problem and effect the repair as quickly as possible or else valuable labor and production time will be wasted.
Common repair issues
The amazing functionality of CNC machines comes with a great deal of complexity. Determining the source of a problem can be very time consuming if simple troubleshooting techniques aren’t followed. Resources like the original manufacturer, equipment dealers, and service technicians can help identify the source of problems as well as affect the repairs needed to get a CNC machine back online and in production.
Some of the most common repair issues CNC operators and technicians deal with are:
- Machine Chuck or Tool Spindle exchange issues
- Control and Drive Motor power fluctuations or failures
- Emergency Stop malfunctions
- Power-up irregularities
- Power Supply failures
- Relay Board errors
- Safety Circuit failures
- Programming errors
- Interface connection issues
Technical training
Operating a CNC machine and repairing a CNC machine are two different disciplines. Machine operators understand a great deal of how the CNC machine functions, but they’re not trained on how a CNC machine is designed or engineered. For many repairs, it takes an expert to diagnose and treat a problem. Specialized diagnostic tools along with training focused on different types of problems make a repair technician invaluable for many production managers and CNC machine floor supervisors. While many troubleshooting steps can be accomplished by a machine operator, it’s always a good idea to bring in an expert when basic troubleshooting doesn’t solve the problem.
Time and money matter
The very nature of CNC machines makes their presence in industry critical to profitable manufacturing operations. A CNC machine that is malfunctioning or not working at all causes its owner to lose a lot of time and money. Entire production lines can be shut due to a CNC machine failure. Labor expenses, production interruptions, and other high-cost issues make machine failures even more critical to resolve. Smart production managers and shop floor supervisors know the time and money spent on preventative and routine maintenance is worth every penny. when it comes to avoiding repairs.
Keep up to speed
Maintaining a CNC machine doesn’t guarantee it will perform perfectly every day. Upgrades and improvements that make CNC machines more efficient and productive increase the value and enhance the productivity of all CNC machines. By reviewing manufacturer’s recommendations regularly as well as communicating with CNC dealers and repair technicians, a machine operator can get the most out of their equipment while avoiding costly and unproductive problems like repairs.
