Your machine tools work hard and are subject to stresses that many manual tools never are; any tools need proper care and maintenance, and machine tools more than any are no exception. 

With that said, this short post should go over the basics of high-level machine tool maintenance. 

Regular Inspection

Regular inspection of your machines and tools will help you catch problems while they are still small. Check parts for deformation, wear, scratches, and ensure all fasteners are present and properly secured. 

Make sure to also inspect the control box routinely. The wiring should be clean and unobstructed, and the cooling and exhaust fans should be inspected to ensure that they are in working order.

Keep the Machine Clean

Keeping your machine clean will help ensure uninterrupted operability and can also help prevent accidents. 

Keep the machine clean by removing any chips that accumulate around moving parts. Either a dry cloth or brush or compressed air can be used for this. Also make sure that the floor surrounding the machine is also clean and clear. 

Check Lubrication Levels 

This is likely the most important aspect of machine and machine tool maintenance. Lubrication is the lifeblood of a machine and helps prevent premature damage as a result of thermal stress or friction; therefore maintaining an adequate lubrication level is critical to machine operation. 

At least once per week, check the gearbox spindle’s oil level and make sure it is within the proper range. 

Air and Coolant Inspection 

Some machines use air or special coolants in order to prevent overheating. If the machine has an air filter, inspect it regularly to ensure it is not occluded by dust or swarf. If it is, replace it promptly. 

The coolant level (if applicable) should also be regularly inspected and maintained within the proper range to prevent the machine from overheating.

Keep Machine Tools Clean 

Your carbide drills and mills should also be kept in good working order, just like the machine that uses them. After use, remove resin or chips, and inspect the flutes for chips, wear, or discoloration. 

Also, store your machine tools in a dedicated case in a cool, dry location away from corrosive influences like high humidity.

Replace Worn Machine Tools Promptly

The sharpness of your machine tools should also be investigated routinely, as worn or damaged machine tools will not produce quality results according to the tolerances needed. This is especially true of tools that are used not just for cutting but for finishing; if they are worn or damaged they will not produce the desired finish. 

Worn or damaged machine tools should be replaced immediately.

When in Doubt, Get in Touch with a Professional Machine Shop 

While there are things you may be comfortable repairing or replacing as a machine operator, if you are in doubt, get in touch with a local machine shop that offers repair services to make sure your machine is in proper working order.

Explore Machine Tools at TMT Toolbox

Although this guide is very high level, hopefully you found some of the insights in here actionable and will be able to put some in practice in short order. 

If you landed here because you need a supplier to replace some of your machine tools that are going end-of-life, visit TMT Toolbox. They carry a wide range of machine tools, including carbide drills and mills; visit their website and if you have any questions, get in touch with their customer service. 

For more information about Carbide End Mills and Klein Tools Please visit: TMT Toolbox.