CNC machines are reputed for their ability to work non-stop and produce quality outputs. However, in order to maximize its lifespan, it needs to be maintained. Much like humans, machines are prone to over-working and require regular maintenance. They need to be cleaned, lubricated and treated well in order to last long. If your CNC machine requires a more in-depth check up, it is highly advisable that owners should only call highly trusted and reputable repair technicians.
Prioritize your machine’s well-being and know more on how to treat your machine well by simply following these tips on what your organization needs to do in order to increase its longevity and maximize your investment:
Tip 1: Clean Work Areas
The build-up of collected grime, residue, and excess dirt during the manufacturing process could guarantee machine breakdown and accidents. The practice of keeping the workspace (and machines) clean by simply removing excess chips and debris produced would prevent possible equipment damage and serious worker accidents. It may seem irrelevant prior damages are caused, but this action, as tiny as it could be from others’ perspective, could save your organizations’ manufacturing performance as it eliminates possible machine downtime and saves on repair costs.
Tip 2: Invest
There is this one idiom that would be considered dangerous for the organization’s operation – “The Blind leading the Blind” – machines that are expensive and require a slightly huge amount of money should be treated with utmost caution. Operators that are tasked to perform the work should be highly knowledgeable and are properly trained to handle such machinery. Knowledge on proper usage and maintenance should be a basic requirement for the people appointed to do the task. Training your employees on the basic and proper practices on operating and maintaining the CNC machine – simple tasks such as, choosing the proper lubricant and replacing the fill cap, could impact the machines’ longevity. Failure to identify the proper lubricant for your machine and non-replacement of fill caps will result in serious machine damage, thus haltering your operation (plus, repair costs or worse – replacement).
Other than the knowledge on proper usage and maintenance of the machinery, machine operators should also be able to identify signs of trouble on the machines that they work with. Knowledgeable and skilled operators would know if there is any problem just by listening to the noise that the machines produce. Make sure to remind them to report any identified problems and address it accordingly by contacting trusted and reputable repair technicians.
Much like humans, overworked and unmaintained machines will break down, with some damages can cause total immobility to do its tasks. By properly using and maintaining the machines, unnecessary break downs can be avoided. Having knowledgeable operators that could spot and identify problems will come a long way, as they can help avoid increasing the risk of further damage on the CNC machine.
Tip 3: Do not Skip Routine Maintenance
Much like humans, machines require maintenance. Machines that experience zero maintenance are prone to breakdowns and damage resulting in total breakage. Having trained operators that work with your machines is one thing, but always contact a reputable repair technician for professional evaluation and diagnosis for your machines. Be proactive in your actions – practice preventive maintenance on your machines and only let professionals perform the task rather than attempting to evaluate, conclude diagnosis, and conduct repair on your own. This practice could do more harm than good for your machines and decrease your CNC machines’ longevity. Adopt the practice of conducting daily, bi-annual, and annual maintenance in your organization and this will guarantee the increase of your CNC machines’ longevity.
These tips might seem difficult, but with practice and repetition, it’ll help your CNC machine last longer. The company would be able to maximize the money and time invested into the machine and operation will be smooth. Maintenance may cost money, but it’s much more cost effective than buying another machine to replace a broken one. Proudly boasting membership to the Machinery Dealers National Association, Tramar Industries is the clear choice for CNC machines of all types. If you’re in need of a CNC machine, browse our extensive inventory of used CNC machines and contact Tramar Industries today!