Regular equipment maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they escalate, thus extending the overall lifespan of that equipment. Addressing minor problems during routine maintenance is a more cost-effective approach than waiting for major issues to develop that can lead to costly repairs.
Understanding your laser is key to making sure it continues to perform at its peak. Regular maintenance helps maintain the precision and accuracy of your cuts, which is crucial for industries that require tight tolerances and consistent quality. Well-maintained equipment also operates more efficiently, which can lead to energy savings and reduced operating costs.
Ultimately, preventive maintenance also ensures that a shop runs to plan, meaning that it can maintain production schedules and resource allocation.
Key machine components within 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 running 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 likely suggests a lubrication maintenance schedule based on the amount itis 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 you are still in spec.
Make regular visual checks on the bellows for your rack and pinion system to ensure there is no chance of dirt penetrating this. Make similar checks to water connections to look for cracks and kinks.
Change cooling water filters per the manufacturer’s instruction (usually annually), as do 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
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