As we all know, the tool magazine in a CNC machining center consists of components such as the carousel/tool changer, tool fork, tool holder, collet, tool magazine motor, router bits, gripper arm/tool change arm, and controller. Due to the complex structure of the tool changer and the frequent replacement of cutting tools, parts of the CNC tool magazine are prone to failure. Proper maintenance can reduce tool magazine faults by up to 50%. In this article, we will discuss how to maintain the CNC tool magazine.

For example, if the tool fork malfunctions, it may cause positioning errors, unstable tool holder manipulation, or even force the entire machine to halt. Therefore, to ensure the tool magazine operates smoothly, follow these steps:

Check the Tool Magazine Rotation

If the tool magazine fails to rotate, inspect the coupling between the motor shaft and the worm shaft for looseness. Additionally, verify the PLC settings, inverter, and grid voltage.

Avoid Overloading the Tool Forks

Ensure cutting tools placed in the magazine do not exceed the allowable weight limit.

Select Tools Based on Sequence

Choose the appropriate cutting tools in the correct sequence to prevent accidents.

Ensure Secure Tool Holder Clamping

The tool forks cannot hold the tool holder tightly, insufficient clamping force or the tool is overweight need to be considered, check the screw, make sure the screw is tight,  make sure the spring is tight. when put the unit (tool forks, collect, tool holder) in to the tool magazine, please make sure the locking device well and reliable.

Regularly Verify Positioning Accuracy

Regularly check the magazine back to zero position is correct, check the CNC spindle back to desired position, once these the problem should be promptly adjusted, or can not complete the tool change action.

The tool holder cannot keep the same level.

obviously, it due to improper device adjustment or machining errors; limit switch installed incorrectly or improperly adjusted and cause the feedback signal error.

Keep the tool holder and tool forks clean.

Keep the tool holder and tool forks free of debris. Chips accumulating in the magazine pockets can cause tools to fall out during ATC operation. Clean tool pockets monthly for safety.

When the tool magazine is running at high speed, it is easy to cause wear damage.  Due to the accumulation of work for a long time, our tool magazine wears are even worse in the later production process, and at the same time, it causes low production efficiency. It requires every worker to pay more attention to details and parts during operation. the whole maintenance and production can help our work efficiency be improved a lot.

Lastly, if your tool magazine spare parts require replacement, like tool forks, tool holder, router bits, spindle, tool pot, CNC gripper, etc. Remember that RicoCNCremains your reliable partner.

【 Go Back 】 | 【 Print 】