FOCUS ON LASER CUTTING
Ultimately , preventive maintenance also ensures that a shop runs to plan , meaning that it can maintain production schedules and resource allocation . Key machine components in a laser cutting machine require particular attention . Many machine tool suppliers will specify when certain maintenance processes should be performed .
The basic components of a laser cutting table are the physical machine tool itself , the laser source , the chiller , pallet changer and dust collector . Each component requires careful consideration when it comes to maintenance .
The machine tool
When I refer to the machine tool here , I am referring to the various mechanical parts that are required to run the machine , not including the laser source itself . This includes the need to lubricate the rack-and-pinion X , Y and Z axes and the guide rails . Your machine tool supplier will probably suggest a lubrication maintenance schedule based on the amount it is used . Be sure to check this carefully .
The axis limits of a machine will change over time with wear and tear and can cause program functionality problems . Review these axis limits regularly to ensure that you are still in spec .
Make regular visual checks on the bellows for your rack and pinion system to ensure that there is no chance of dirt penetration . Make similar checks to water connections to look for cracks and kinks .
Change cooling water filters as per the manufacturer ’ s instruction ( usually annually ), as well as gas filters for the laser .
Be sure to install a 0.01-μm filter in the nitrogen supply line to safeguard the laser system from potential contaminants . Lasers have compressed air intake which can carry dust , dirt , oil and moisture . Without minimum yearly machine filter changes , these contaminants can enter the machine ’ s internal components . This will cause wear , corrosion and reduced efficiency .
Other key safety points to tackle include checking emergency stops , reset and pause buttons to ensure that they are working properly . Perform a visual inspection of warning lamps as well .
For eye safety , check the protective windows on a fibre laser and all possible points of egress for light from the cutting area . To do this , use a torch in a dark room and run it around all possible egress points .
The laser
Image : Tom Eldin .
Maintenance of laser cutting head .
Preventative maintenance checks of a laser cutting unit .
Image : Mazak .
this is compromised , it will affect the kerf and cleanliness of your cut . Using new or wellmaintained gas regulators will ensure that the correct pressure is being delivered . Gas leaks often occur with old regulators , which can be costly . Check the lateral air blast nozzle for cleanliness , checking that it is not plugged with spatter . Cutting issues can result if the nozzle is not checked .
Clean the nozzle changer regularly and check the alignment of the head to the nozzles when changing . Be sure to clean the calibration plate as well .
Lastly , remember to have your service engineer check internal fans for cleanliness . Improper air flow can hamper all other components , if compromised enough .
The pallet changer
The pallet changer is just as important as any other part of the machine in keeping it running smoothly . There are several items that need to be reviewed regularly .
First , check the lateral guideways and readjust them , if necessary . Guideways are the area where the pallet wheels are guided into the pallet changer . It is important to make sure that no scrap is in there . Any hindrance could cause the wheels to jump the track , causing all kinds of problems .
Check the oil level and the rest of the hydraulic system to ensure that there are no leaks . Be sure to check how often the hydraulic oil requires changing . Depending upon the manufacturer , this could be required every three to five years . Bring the table down first before changing the oil .
Check the motor chains to see that they are securely attached and lubricate , as necessary . The chain deflection will be specified by your machine ’ s maintenance manual .
Check the wheels on the pallet changer for chips ; after installations , there can be a settling
The laser itself is probably least likely to be overlooked for inspection , but it is worth reviewing the essential points that need to be checked .
The nitrogen input to a fibre laser is key . If Maintenance being performed on a laser resonator .
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