Maintenance Tips for Metalworking Machine Tools


Release time:

2026/03/25

Maintenance of metalworking machine tools is crucial for ensuring machining accuracy and extending equipment lifespan, and it hinges on four core principles: “cleaning, lubrication, inspection, and prevention.”

Daily maintenance should begin with cleaning. Remove cutting chips and oil residue from the worktable, guideways, and protective covers every day to prevent contaminants from entering the system and causing wear or short circuits. Check the lubricant level, coolant volume, and oil level in the pneumatic three-way unit to ensure adequate oil supply and normal pressure (generally 5–7 kg/cm²). Preheat the machine for 10 minutes before startup; for machines that have been idle for an extended period, increase the preheating time to stabilize the machine’s thermal performance.

The lubrication system requires special attention. Regularly clean the oil pump filters and oil distribution manifolds, and replace the lubricating oil and filters according to the schedule to prevent oil emulsification or blockages. The tapered bore inside the spindle should be wiped daily and sprayed with light oil to prevent rust. Keep the tool magazine arms and tool chucks clean to ensure smooth tool changes.

Clean the heat exchanger filters and remove dust from the electrical cabinets weekly. Check for loose tool clamps and verify that the three-axis home positions have not shifted. Test the axis clearances monthly and adjust the compensation values as necessary. Annual maintenance includes replacing the coolant, checking the perpendicular accuracy of all axes, and performing a comprehensive inspection of the electrical system.

Electrical components must be kept dry and clean to prevent metal chips from entering circuit boards; grounding must be reliable, and live-wire work is strictly prohibited. Avoid frequent power interruptions to the CNC system; it is recommended to power it on 1–2 times per week to prevent moisture damage and loss of parameters.