Stored spindle start-up

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GeneMpls
Vectric Craftsman
Posts: 193
Joined: Sun Nov 04, 2012 4:27 pm
Model of CNC Machine: PRS Buddy48alpha ,4x6' 130w laser, Wazer

Stored spindle start-up

Post by GeneMpls »

My life has been hectic for 5-6 years and I am finally regaining control. I have had a Shopbot Buddy 48" Alpha for a number of years and always loved it but it was taken out of service in about 2018 judging from the dates on my old files. I have been wrapped up in large format Chicom CO2 lasers for the last 6-7 years and just did not have the space or time to use the Shopbot. It has been stored in a heated building since then. I now got a neighboring building back from the long time renter and have the floorspace for all my tools... I know that the bearings in spindles need tender loving care- it is a HSD 1.7kw, the spindle it came with.
Does anyone have any thoughts on how to bring it back to life? Thanks for your thoughts. Gene

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Leo
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Joined: Sat Jul 14, 2007 3:02 am
Model of CNC Machine: 1300 x 1300 x 254 Chinese Made
Location: East Freetown, Ma.
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Re: Stored spindle start-up

Post by Leo »

Clean it REALLY good.
Level it
Oil and grease it where applicable.
Turn spindle by hand - feel for roughness
Turn stepper motors or Servo motors by hand - feel for unusual play or roughness.
Check belt tensions
Check for play in rack or ball screws
Clean it REALLY good
Lubricate it.

Power it on
Manually jog all axis
Clean it
Lubricate it

Turn on spindle at low RPM

Gradually bring it up to speed on the spindle and axis motions.
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