Condition Monitoring for machine tools

On the TruLaser machine, features including the lateral air blast nozzle, the cutting unit and gas pressures are actively monitored. Effective monitoring of the lateral air blast nozzle prevents quality problems in thick sheet by detecting slag deposits at an early stage. Early error detection on the cutting unit ensures that technicians can be deployed effectively. The degree of contamination and any adverse effects are monitored. Monitoring different gas pressures prevents contamination of optical components, which can prevent high follow-on costs and potential total failure of the cutting unit.

On the TruMatic machine, features including the vacuum pump, axes and drives are monitored. An unexpected failure of the CO2 vacuum pump on the resonator can cause the laser beam to stop working. Monitoring this pump prevents potential downtime. Faults in axles and drives such as excess temperature, jamming or excess torque are detected at an early stage to prevent consequential damage.

On the TruBend machine, features including the degree of contamination of the sheets, filters and central lubrication are monitored. The Technical Guide reminds customers to replace filters at the correct time and so can reduce and prevent restrictions. Problems with the central lubrication can be caused by factors including air pressure, empty lubricant and contamination. These can all be detected at an early stage by Condition Monitoring.