August 2024 Volume 6

MAINTENANCE

tion of the machine. All running surfaces require adequate lubrication. Whether the lubri cant is oil or grease, having the right amount is critical. A quick test is to run your fingers over the running surface, if you feel a complete lubrication film on the surface a few thou sand thick you have enough. Excessive lubricant will collect dirt and contamination and can cause excessive surface wear. Be careful not to allow dirt or metal shavings from the manufacturing process to enter the lubrication system as it will lead to premature failure. 6. Parallelism in the die space is important. Die space parallelism is critical to the proper function and overall life of the press. When the moving platen face is allowed to operate out of parallel with the bolster plate/bed of the press, undue side loads can be generated. These side loads can cause the piston seals and cylinders to wear excessively. The platen guiding system can also help to eliminate the side loads by controlling the path of the moving platen as it moves through the stroke of the machine. The purpose of the guiding system on the moving platen is to control the path of the platen as well as minimize the effects of any side loading on the piston cylinders. 7. Maintain your electrical controls. Electrical controls are just as important as the hydraulic system. Most modern electrical control systems are reliable. However, they do not last forever, particularly if they are not maintained properly. Controls such as relays, circuit boards and coils for the solenoid valves are subject to adverse conditions such as excessive oil, grease, dirt build up and vibration.

to the electrical controls, make sure that all gauges that monitor the hydraulic system function are operating safely and properly. 8. Perform safety checks daily and record results. Make sure to check your guarding system. If your die space is guarded by light curtains make sure at the beginning and end of each shift they function properly. Conclusion If you implement the eight steps, we have discussed and follow through with a formal record keeping system you will be able to make step by step improvements that over time will greatly improve your overall opera tion.

Control panels should be shock mounted. Panels should be equipped with cooling fans and the inside of the panels should be neat and tidy. If the wiring is changed or updated, the mating prints should have notes added to reflect the changes. Here are a couple of sugges tions; 1) Consider installing an hour meter and a stroke counter to maintain accurate records of running time and repairs. 2) The control wiring should be checked every 6-12 months to ensure that all connections are tight. Any damaged switches/buttons or indicator lights should be replaced at that time. In addition

Jeff Fredline Owner-Industry Consultant Prestrade Phone: 615-517-4282 Email: fredline.jeff@gmail.com Special thanks to Meco Corporation, Greeneville TN for the pictures.

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