Used CNC lathe preventive maintenance

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In a previous post, we discussed the value of performing routine maintenance on used cnc lathes and the routine maintenance steps involved. In this post, we will discuss the preventive maintenance programs for used cnc lathes. It is many times advisable to have a simple written preventive maintenance program for used cnc lathes in place to avoid confusion and oversight of critical check points. The write up does not need to be over elaborate, but needs to address all the critical points nevertheless. Scheduled preventive maintenance programs on used cnc lathes can be performed by the machine operator himself if he is well qualified, by the shop maintenance personnel if they are well qualified or simply out sourced to and external organization if deemed necessary.

Scheduled preventive maintenance on used cnc lathes must include a turret alignment check to ensure accuracy of cut. Sometimes used cnc lathes continue to be operated even though there may be signs of leaking oil from the turret head. This is a common problem and if turret leaking oil is discovered then the turret will have to be taken apart, worn out parts replaced and a turret realignment done. If this is overlooked, then the turret will at some point, usually at the most inopportune moment, stop indexing and a breakdown maintenance performed which is usually very costly. Next, take out the screens on the chip pan and clean the chip pan completely and remove all chips. This is also the most opportune moment to drain out all of the coolant and replace with fresh coolant made to the proper proportions as instructed by the manufacturer. Chip conveyor should be thoroughly cleaned. If collet chucks are used, then drain the collet chuck of all trapped oil and coolant.

Check the electric current levels drawn by all motors to ensure their health. If a tool setter otherwise known as a tool eye is being used then this is the best time to get it calibrated. Calibration of other gages and instruments may also be performed if deemed necessary. This is especially true of chuck pressure gages. Over chuck pressure can be a fatal safety issue and must not be overlooked. Check the condition of machine guards and replace broken viewing windows and such. These basic scheduled preventive maintenance procedures can ensure that your used cnc lathe will faithfully produce parts over and over again without the need for spending enormous amounts of money in breakdown maintenance which can be quite expensive both in terms of lost productivity and emergency maintenance labor rates.