When it comes to periodic cleaning of your machine tools, be ready for a much larger task. The best way to begin is just to roll up your sleeves and dig in. But, don t worry it looks much worse than it is. When the covers are removed, machine tools take on a different look. Those who don t know much about the internals of machine tools might be alarmed by their appearance.
Some machines have well-engineered cover schemes.
For example, if you are machining graphite, the dust will penetrate everything, including your protective covers. I was called by a customer to repair a spindle motor fault. When I removed the cover from the motor area, I found the motor completely engulfed in carbon dust. Many times, I have removed covers to inspect ballscrews and had to chip away cast iron clumps of rusted chips with a hammer and chisel just to look at it. I think, by now, you re getting the point.