Maintaining and Cleaning Your Machines

To keep your milling machine running for as long as possible and in the best condition (and to avoid safety risks), you will need to keep your machine and your tools properly cleaned and maintained. We’re providing the following tips to help you maintain an efficient, safe, and productive machine:

Establish a routine: Make machinery maintenance a routine procedure. Not only will they last longer, but your consistent maintenance will help give you peace of mind. You’d never miss a meal, so don’t miss regular machinery maintenance!

Store tools properly: You’ll want to protect all tools and machinery from damage as it moves around your shop. Before placing into storage, spray with rust-resisting lubricant and prevent tooling, especially carbide, from bumping into each other.

Test periodically: Like all forms of machinery, you should test it periodically. Examine the spindle’s runour approximately every three months. If you notice an increase in runout, look to replace bearings or other parts to keep it in top shape.

Keep spindles free of damage: If you notice wear on your toolholder tapers, keep the inside of the spindles clean and lubricated, and check that the collet alignment screw is in good condition.

At High Quality Tools, we’re determined to provide exceptional customer service in addition to our wide selection of milling machine replacement parts and tooling. For more information, visit our website or contact us at one of our three locations.