Maintaining and cleaning a laser cutter is crucial for ensuring the long-term stability and longevity of the equipment. Here are some key steps and considerations:
Water Circulation and Tank Cleaning: Ensure that the laser tube is filled with circulating water, as the quality and temperature of the water directly affect the lifespan of the laser tube. It is recommended to replace the circulating water and clean the tank at least once a week.
Fan Cleaning: Regularly clean the fans inside the machine to remove accumulated dust, preventing noise and poor exhaust. When the fan's suction is insufficient, cleaning should be performed.
Lens Cleaning: Clean the reflective and focusing lenses daily to prevent dust or contaminants from affecting the quality of the laser beam and damaging the lenses. Handle lenses gently to avoid dropping them and do not damage the surface coatings.
Guide Rail Cleaning: Clean the machine's guide rails every two weeks to maintain the machine's processing accuracy and smooth movement. Cleaning the guide rails and linear shafts prevents the accumulation of corrosive dust and smoke, avoiding impact on equipment accuracy and lifespan.
Tightening Screws and Couplings: Regularly check the screws and couplings in the motion system to ensure there is no loosening, maintaining the smoothness of mechanical movement. It is recommended to tighten the screws for the first time about a month after the equipment is used.
Optical Path Inspection: Check the optical path before each work session to ensure the correct reflection and focusing of the laser beam. Although shifts are usually not likely to occur, regular checks are necessary.
Special Attention to Lens Cleaning: Lenses are fragile items, and they should be handled gently during cleaning. Use anhydrous alcohol or 98% alcohol for cleaning, and avoid using sharp objects to touch the lenses.
Maintenance in High-Temperature Environments: When using a laser cutter in high-temperature or humid environments, be careful to avoid condensation that can affect the laser's output efficiency and the transparency of optical lenses. Suggest setting appropriate water temperatures and closing the water cooler when the machine is stopped to prevent condensation.
Maintenance of Cooling Systems and Water: Regularly inspect and maintain the cooling system, use regular distilled water or pure water, and regularly clean the scale in the water tank, replacing water and filters to prevent scale from affecting the flow of cooling water.
Follow Manufacturer's Maintenance Plan: Follow the maintenance plan recommended by the manufacturer to ensure regular maintenance and timely resolution of potential issues.
By following these steps, you can effectively maintain and clean a laser cutter, ensuring its performance and extending its service life.