Every Robot Needs Preventative Maintenance
The goal of preventative maintenance for Automation and Robotics systems is essential to identify any potential problems before they lead to downtime and/or serious damage. Some companies get around the problem by keeping spare parts and supplies on hand, but that approach ends up being costly in the long run; even when a failure occurs, affected employees have already been forced to stand around and wait while replacement parts are fitted. Put ensuring your investment in robotics companies may have different recommendations on specs for maintenance for equipment and components.
Robotics are Integrated Within More Modern Work Environments
Now, most modern manufacturing and assembly plants are increasingly intelligent environments where the machines themselves communicate with one another and schedule their own maintenance interventions often. Maintenance personnel must be able to log in to these factory computers (robots) remotely at any time day or night to carry instructions or provide feedback on repair work conducted upon equipment such as wheelchairs. Just like today's personal computers and cell phones, factory equipment is becoming more intelligently integrated into business operations by way of remote monitoring technologies which means that humans do not need to physically access factory machinery.
Now, with more unique production demands, when running robots and their associated equipment beyond a time frame for proper maintenance frequencies it may risk the performance of the equipment and unexpected failures.
Issues That May Arise Without Proper Preventative Maintenace
By not being proactive with regular preventive maintenance for your robotic equipment the following issues may arise:
- Cable Damage
- Loss of Programs
- Position Deviation
- Repeatability Issues
Recommended maintenance tasks to schedule throughout the life of your robot:
- Backing up the controller memory
- Check connections and other equipment for functionality
- Clean vents and filters with compressed air
- Durability and repeatability testing
- Grease joints according to specs
- Inspecting robot harness and cables
- Inspection and cleaning
- Inspection of brake operation
- Load testing to ensure OEM specifications for performance are met
- Repair/replacement of components as per contract agreement
- Test and replace RAM and APC batteries, if required
- Visual inspection of controller cables
If any further action is required and the robot needs repairs, the technician should report the issues so arrangements can be made to make the needed repairs.
Expert in Automation and Robotics for Better Strategies
We understand the importance of keeping your robot running as efficiently as possible. Multi-Craft Contractors provides an in-depth knowledge of robotics used throughout many industries. We provide clear strategies to manage robotic operations, such as the integration of new technology combined with the processing concepts of new manufacturing technologies.
Let our experts help you avoid critical mistakes associated with the care of your robot.