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It should also be recognized that maintenance is a relatively short process, with the greasing of racks and bearings requiring only a few minutes of an operator’s time. It is the technology that goes into the construction of a router carving machine that helps simplify maintenance. Routers now incorporate automated logs that provide machine updates on daily activity and remedial measures for any malfunctioning detected. This reduces the possibility of unexpected complications that could lead to machine downtime during a critical production run.

A recommended maintenance schedule

Many of the more advanced CNC routers include an entire maintenance log covering daily, weekly and monthly inspections. Contingent upon the type and make of router, maintenance schedules tend to vary but the following five guidelines apply to all machines:

Cleanliness: Routers invariably operate in a dusty environment and it does not take long for bearings and controls to become polluted and this is a sure recipe for operating problems if not rectified on a daily basis.

Manufacturers and suppliers recommend hand-sweeping of the router, while an air gun can be used to blow debris away from the bearings. Another fairly standard recommendation is to lower the air pressure during the cleaning process.

Change filters: If this sounds like an instruction found in an automobile manual there is a reason for the similarity. Just as clogged filters reduce engine efficiency, the same applies to a router’s controller, vacuum pumps and air lines. The frequency with which filters are replaced will vary, depending on the type of material being processed and environmental factors like the presence of dust and dirt. There is no standardised maintenance protocol but as a rule of thumb filters should be checked weekly and replaced as considered necessary.

An important consideration for router owners is that if it is found that a machine malfunction was caused by a failure to lubricate sufficiently the manufacturer’s warranty would be voided. Bearings, pumps, router spindles and knives need regular lubrication, but the frequency with which this is carried out will again be influenced by the type and make of machine, the extent of its use and the work environment in which it operates.

Air supply cleaning: Most routers operate using air that has to be clean, dry and maintained at a steady pressure exceeding 80psi or six barometric. Damage to the router is likely in the short term if air pressure is not checked regularly and maintained at the recommended level.

Safe and appropriate electrical power: The caveat for electrically-powered machines applies equally to CNC routers, with the power connected safely as required by local regulations. Router failure is likely to occur in cases of poor electrical grounding, low voltage or insufficient capacity. As with all computer-operated machinery, power spikes will cause serious damage.

Daily and weekly maintenance protocols invariably come with every CNC router. They include times for logging operation hours, general cleaning, air pressure readings and lubrication. Monthly inspection protocols include greasing of the racks, pinions and bearings, repair or replacement of the vacuum table gasket should this be necessary and cleaning of all filters.

In addition, bi-annual maintenance protocols include replacement of all filters, vacuum performance testing and inspection and tightening of timing belts and transmissions.

Complete wood router carving machine programs include the following command:

(1) The tool instruction, including the ATC, the knife;

(2) spindle commands, including the opening to stop the spindle, spindle speed;

(3) motion commands, including fast positioning, go straight, take the arc, and the cutting speed of aliasing