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Common Issues with Used CNC Machines & How to Fix Them

Buying used CNC machines is a great way to save costs for your company as it helps you buy good quality machines at a hugely affordable price. But as it says everything has its pros and cons. Similarly used CNC machines also come with problems due to past usage especially if used for longer hours. It is not something to worry about, every used CNC machine has some kind of problem. But, if you want to know the problems and how to fix them, you have landed on the best page.

Top issues that you can face after buying a used CNC machine

Here are some of the top problems that one may have to face after buying a used CNC machine, and how they can fix the problem

1. Mechanical wear and tear

One of the most common problems that one may face after buying a used CNC machine is the problem of mechanical wear and tear. You may understand the problem with the unusual noises that the machine is making, inaccuracy in the production of the work, and finally extra vibrations during the work.

Causes of this problem – Mechanical problems mainly happen due to over usage of the machine. Though there are several machines that can handle long hours of work, those machines also need proper care. Some users often use machines without doing any proper servicing or taking care of those machines leading to wear and tear in different parts of the CNC machine.

How to fix the mechanical wear and tear problem – Here are some extra tips on how can you deal with the mechanical wears and tears of a used CNC machine:

Repair the parts that are showing problems, consulting some experts.
Replace the parts with problems with new ones, that will give more longevity to the machine.
Do proper servicing of the machine from time to time, inspect if any problem is there, and try to avoid overusing.

2. Software issues

Software issues are a big problem when it comes to used CNC machines. The software control systems are responsible for interpreting the G-Code and then directing the operation of the machine. If there is any kind of problem with the software, then the whole machine starts malfunctioning.

Causes of the problem – One of the main reasons behind the collapse of the control system of a CNC machine is backdated or corrupted software. Also, the control panel of the machine might have faced any kind of wear and tear due to overuse which may lead to malfunctioning of the touchscreen or unresponsive buttons.

How to fix the problem – Here are some simple tips for you about how to solve the problem of software malfunctioning in used CNC machines:

Update the software. Sometimes updating the software helps in better functioning or just reinstalling it to make sure it is free of bugs.
Do an inspection of the control panel. Check if there is any loose connection or breakage in the connectivity of the panel, in case of any severe connection issue you might need to consult a repairing expert.
If the issue continues to persist, then you can just restore the whole software system to factory settings and reorganize it. But make sure you back your programs before making any kind of changes.

3.Electrical problems

Another very common problem faced by the buyers of used CNC machines is the problem with electrical connectivity. There is often wear and tear on the electrical unit or any kind of loose connection-related issues that disturb the work of the buyer of a used CNC machine. Sometimes the electrical problems lead to the breaking of the work or even the inability to start.

Causes of the problem – One of the biggest electrical problems that machines face with electrical systems is the problem of loose connections, so you must check if the connection is right. Also, another major problem that can lead to electrical malfunctioning is the issue of damaged wiring.

How to fix the electrical system issue –
Here are some tips from our side about what steps you should take to fix any problem with the electrical system of your CNC machines:

Firstly, check the power supply to the machine. The power source must be stable and is supplying the correct voltage to the machine. If not then get it fixed by an electrician
Also inspect the wiring of the machine. Make sure all the wires are in the right condition and have not been damaged due to any reason and get the wiring done in the right way if needed.
If there is any problem with a blown fuse, then you should just get it replaced.

4. Cooling system failures

The cooling system is one of the most important parts of a CNC machine. The work of a CNC machine involves getting heated up while doing critical designing and manufacturing work. Parts like the spindle and cutting tools generally get heated up a lot during the whole operation and the cooling system helps to normalize the temperature and prevent any breakdown of the machine but some used CNC machines have a problem in the cooling system.

Causes of the problem – One of the major reasons behind the malfunctioning of the coolant system of a CNC machine is the clogged coolant lines. Any kind of dirt, or metal shavings can lead to these clogging problems. Also sometimes the problem of the coolant happens due to a malfunctioning pump of the system.

How to fix any problem with the coolant system – Here are some easy tips from our side about how to fix any problem happening with the coolant system:

Regularly flush the coolant lines to make sure that all the dirt doesn’t clot the line and try to regularly change the filter for better cleaning.
Also make sure that the coolant used for the system is the appropriate one for your machine.
Lastly, if the pump is causing any problem then check if there is a connection issue with the pump or bring an electrician for better troubleshooting.

5. Hydraulic system failure

Last but not least, some CNC machines also show problems with the hydraulic system. CNC machines use hydraulic systems for tool changes, control clamping, and other other work. Sometimes the hydraulic system can also show different problems like leakage of fluid or erratic movements.

Causes of hydraulic system failure – The main reason behind hydraulic system failure is the contamination of the hydraulic fluid. Also leaks in different parts of the system or warning out of the seals can cause failure of the system.

How to fix the hydraulic system – Now here are some tips from our side about how to solve any issues that are happening with the hydraulic system:

Firstly check if there is enough quantity of hydraulic fluid present in the system and if the quantity is right then check the quality of the liquid and make sure it is not contaminated.
Check if there is any wear or leakages in the system, and repair if there are any.
Also check the hydraulic pump if it’s working with the right pressure. If the pressure level is too low, you may need to replace it.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these are the five main problems that users often have to face after buying a used CNC machine. All these problems had one solution in common and that is doing an inspection of the machine on a regular basis and making sure that the machine is well serviced. Just doing these two things can help you in running the machine for a longer time than your expectations.