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In this article, we leave you with some tips for regularly checking the status of your robot.
There are some measures that reveal the general status of robots, which can and should be periodically evaluated. It is important to remember that a robot is normally a part of a system composed of other equipment that interact with each other. Considering this when a maintenance problem arises, it does not always come from the robot, so it is always advisable to monitor the functionality of the entire system.
In the specific case of robots, they are evaluated considering their general performance (For example, mechanical reliability, precision or quality of replacement parts), their internal functionality (level of lubrication, torque or internal wiring) and also the performance of the controller.
In this context and considering all the variables to be evaluated, we have identified 5 tips that allow you to understand the general operational status of your robot:
1) Analysis of the Lubricants: To guarantee the quality of the mechanical components (for example, gearboxes) an analysis of the greases must be carried out, thus monitoring the iron levels. Equally very important is to alert to the fact that the lubricants used must be those referenced in each robot's manual;
2) Manual Test: This test involves manually moving the robot, with the objective of evaluate vibrations, noises, gaps or other symptoms that may reveal current or future mechanical problems;
3) Torque Analysis: Normally performed by technicians certified/qualified, this test measures the torque of the motors, looking for indicators that may demonstrate inconsistencies in the robot's movement;
4) Backlash Test: This procedure seeks to determine the amount of backlash in reducers. For accurate readings, the robot and indicator are positioned at a specific location. This test is also normally performed by Yaskawa technicians;
5) Working Time: This indicator aims to track the working time of robots. In the case of Yaskawa robots, 6000 hours of work (maximum) are prescribed/suggested for carrying out new preventive maintenance. By carrying out maintenance at regular intervals, the robot's operation is optimized, preventing unnecessary downtime.
The described tips correspond to tasks that are relatively easy to perform, which by themselves do not dispense, whenever necessary, more accurate and dedicated assessments, as we must be aware of each application is unique and the behaviour of the equipment change from application to application.
The information now shared does not eliminate the need for companies to detain and enforce a maintenance plan, in order to guarantee the proper functioning of the robots.
ROBOPLAN, through its After Sales Department, provides services dedicated to the preparation of preventive maintenance plans, in conjunction with its customers, to define tasks, execution deadlines and performance measures for the installed robots.
Optimized planning, guided by data and measures collected from the installed equipment, enable proactive decisions, reduced downtime and, consequently, more productive factories.
