Every robot requires preventative maintenance to ensure optimal performance and consistency on the production line. Failure to perform regular preventative maintenance checks can lead to component damage or malfunctions, causing production slowdowns or even shutdowns. Proper robot maintenance can extend their lifespan by years or even decades, and regular preventative maintenance can multiply that lifespan.
Different robot companies provide different preventative maintenance schedules. For example, FANUC Robotics states that preventative maintenance for industrial robots should be performed every 3,850 hours or 12 months, and this should not be neglected. However, KUKA Robotics recommends preventative maintenance after 10,000 hours. It is important to consult the specific robot's manual to determine the optimal maintenance schedule.
Regardless of whether the maintenance intervals recommended in the manual are long or short, scheduling maintenance for robots can prevent unexpected downtime due to mechanical problems. Downtime incurs significant costs. While planned maintenance may temporarily halt production, it is negligible compared to the production time lost due to unplanned robot downtime.
So, what does routine preventative maintenance include? Here are the maintenance procedures proposed by FANUC and Motoman Robotics:
Backup controller memory;
Regularly monitor the robot and inspect its components, wires, and cables;
Check the braking system;
Check the robot's structural compactness;
Listen to the vibrations and noises in the sound;
Check the robot's lubrication joints according to the robot's manual (if lubrication is already complete, analyze the degree of lubrication);
Visually inspect the teach pendant and controller cables;
Inspect cable connections, cooling fans, power supplies, safety devices, and other operating equipment;
If necessary, test and replace the RAM and APC battery;
If the robot requires maintenance, technicians should report the problem so that necessary repairs can be arranged.
RobotWorx is a certified integrator for several different robotics companies, including FANUC, Motoman, Universal Robots, KUKA, and ABB. RobotWorx's professional team informs customers of all the details of industrial robot maintenance plans so that their robots can maintain optimal performance and consistency.
