any other party automatically voids the factory warranty.
June 6, 2013
HAAS SERVICE AND OPERATOR MANUAL ARCHIVE
VF-Series Service Manual 96-8100 RevC English June 2001
•This content is for illustrative purposes.
•Historic machine Service Manuals are posted here to provide information for Haas machine owners.
•Publications are intended for use only with machines built at the time of original publication.
•As machine designs change the content of these publications can become obsolete.
•You should not do mechanical or electrical machine repairs or service procedures unless you are qualied
and knowledgeable about the processes.
•Only authorized personnel with the proper training and certication should do many repair procedures.
WARNING: Some mechanical and electrical service procedures can be
extremely dangerous or life-threatening.
Know your skill level and abilities.
All information herein is provided as a courtesy for Haas machine owners
for reference and illustrative purposes only. Haas Automation cannot be held
responsible for repairs you perform. Only those services and repairs that are
provided by authorized Haas Factory Outlet distributors are guaranteed.
Only an authorized Haas Factory Outlet distributor should service or repair a
Haas machine that is protected by the original factory warranty. Servicing by
June2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
COMMON ABBREVIATIONS USED IN HAAS MACHINES
ACAlternating Current
AMPAmpere
APCAutomatic Pallet Changer
APLAutomatic Parts Loader
ASCIIAmerican Standard Code for Information Interchange
ATCAutomatic Tool Changer
ATC FWDAutomatic Tool Change Forward
ATC REVAutomatic Tool Changer Reverse
AWGAmerican Wire Gauge
BHCSButton Head Cap Screw
CADComputer Assisted Design
CAMComputer Assisted Machining
CBCircuit Breaker
CCCubic Centimeter
CCWCounter Clockwise
CFMCubic Feet per Minute
CNCComputerized Numeric Control
CNCR SPINDLEConcurrent Spindle with axis motion
CRCCyclic Redundancy Check Digit
CRTCathode Ray Tube
CWClockwise
DBDraw Bar
DCDirect Current
DGNOSDiagnostic
DIRDirectory
DNCDirect Numerical Control
DOSDisk Operating System
ENA CNVREnable Conveyor
EOBEnd Of Block
EOFEnd Of File
EPROMErasable Programmable Read Only Memory
E-StopEmergency Stop
FHCSFlat Head Cap Screw
FTFoot
FUFuse
FWDForward
GAGauge
HHBHex Head Bolts
HPHorse Power
HSHorizontal Series Of Machining Centers
IDInside Diameter
IGBTIsolated Gate Bipolar Transistor
INInch
IOPCBInput Output Printed Circuit Board
LANLocal Area Network
LBPound
LEDLight Emitting Diode
LO CLNTLow Coolant
LOW AIR PRLow Air Pressure
LVPSLow Voltage Power Supply
MBMegabyte (1 million)
MCD RLY BRDM-Code Relay Board
MDIManual Data Input
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TROUBLESHOOTING
MEMMemory
M-FINM-Code Finished
MMMillimeter
MOCONMotor Control
MOTIFMotor Interface
MSGMessage
MSHCPMetric Socket Head Cap Screw
NCNumerical Control
NCNormally Closed
NONormally Open
ODOutside Diameter
OPEROperator
PPocket
PARAMParameter
PCBPrintedCircuit Board
PGMProgram
PORPower On Reset
POSITPositions
PROGProgram
PSIPounds Per Square Inch
PWMPulse Width Modulation
RAMRandom Access Memory
REPT RIG TAPRepeat Rigid Tap
RETReturn
REV CNVRReverse Conveyor
RJHRemote Jog Handle
RPDBDNRotary Pallet Draw Bar Down
RPDBUPRotary Pallet Draw Bar Up
RPMRevolutions Per Minute
SSpindle Speed
SDISTServo Distribution PCB
SFMSurface Feet Per Minute
SHCSSocket Head Cap Screw
SIOSerial Input/Output
SKBIFSerial Key Board Inter Face PCB
SMTCSide Mount Tool Changer
SPSpindle
TTool Number
TCTool Changer
TIRTotal Indicated Runout
TNCTool Nose Compensation
TRPTool Release Piston
TSTail Stock
TSCThrough The Spindle Coolant
VFVertical Mill (very first)
VF-EVertical Mill- Extended
VMCVertical Machining Center
WANWide Area Network
June 2001
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TROUBLESHOOTING
1. TROUBLESHOOTING
This section is intended for use in determining the solution to a known problem. Solutions given are intended to
give the individual servicing the CNC a pattern to follow in, first, determining the problems source and, second,
solving the problem.
The troubleshooting tips are organized in this section according to the area of the CNC that may be giving sign
of a problem. (Ex.: Out-of round circles in drilling will be found under the heading General Machine Operation Accuracy).
If the problem you are experiencing cannot be found under the heading you expect, please try several other
possible headings. If the problem is still not found, contact Haas Automation for further details.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN:
USE COMMON SENSE
Many problems are easily overcome by correctly evaluating the situation. All machine operations are composed
of a program, tools, and tooling. You must look at all three before blaming one as the fault area. If a bored hole
is chattering because of an overextended boring bar, dont expect the machine to correct the fault. Dont
suspect machine accuracy if the vise bends the part. Dont claim hole mis-positioning if you dont first centerdrill the hole.
FIND THE PROBLEM FIRST
Many mechanics tear into things before they understand the problem, hoping that it will appear as they go. We
know this from the fact that more than half of all warranty returned parts are in good working order. If the
spindle doesnt turn, remember that the spindle is connected to the gear box, which is connected to the
spindle motor, which is driven by the spindle drive, which is connected to the I/O BOARD, which is driven by
the MOCON, which is driven by the processor. The moral here is dont replace the spindle drive if the belt is
broken. Find the problem first; dont just replace the easiest part to get to.
DONT TINKER WITH THE MACHINE
There are hundreds of parameters, wires, switches, etc., that you can change in this machine. Dont start
randomly changing parts and parameters. Remember, there is a good chance that if you change something,
you will incorrectly install it or break something else in the process. Consider for a moment changing the
processors board. First, you have to download all parameters, remove a dozen connectors, replace the board,
reconnect and reload, and if you make one mistake or bend one tiny pin it WONT WORK. You always need to
consider the risk of accidentally damaging the machine anytime you work on it. It is cheap insurance to
double-check a suspect part before physically changing it. The less work you do on the machine the better.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
1.1 GENERAL MACHINE OPERATION
MACHINE NOT RUNNING
Machine cannot be powered on.
Check input voltage to machine (see "Electrical Service").
Check main circuit breaker at top right of electrical cabinet; switch must be at the on position.
Check overvoltage fuses (see "Electrical Service").
Check wiring to POWER OFF button on front control panel.
Check wiring to AUTO OFF relay to IOPCB.
Check connection between 24V transformer and K1 contactor
Check IOPCB (see "Electrical Service").
Check POWER PCB (see "Electrical Service").
Machine can be powered on, but turns off by itself.
June 2001
Check settings #1 and #2 for Auto Off Timer or Off at M30.
Check alarm history for OVERVOLTAGE or OVERHEAT shutdown.
Check AC power supply lines for intermittent supply.
Check wiring to POWER OFF button on front control panel.
Check connection between 24V transformer and K1 contactor.
Check IOPCB (see "Electrical Service").
Check Parameter 57 for Power Off at E-STOP.
Check MOTIF or MOCON PCB (see "Electrical Service").
Machine turns on, keyboard beeps, but no CRT display.
Check for power connections to CRT from IOPCB. Check for green POWER LED at front of CRT.
Close doors and Zero Return machine (possible bad monitor).
Check video cable (760) from VIDEO PCB to CRT.
Check for lights on the processor.
Machine turns on, CRT works, but no keyboard keys work.
Check keyboard cable (700B) from VIDEO to KBIF PCB.
Check keypad (see "Electrical Service").
Check KBIF PCB (see "Electrical Service").
Constant E-Stop Condition (will not reset)
Check Hydraulic counterbalance pressure, low pressure switches and cabling.
4
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June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
VIBRATION
Vibration is a subjective evaluation with perceptions varying among individuals, making it difficult to determine in
mild cases if there is an actual problem. Because the VF Series uses a gear head, it will be noisier than a
direct drive or belt system. In obvious cases, it is a matter of determining the source - which is not easy, since
all parts rotate together and sound can be transferred readily. Vibrations also need to be distinguished from
noise such as a bad bearing. We will assume that vibrations would be something that could be felt by putting
your hand on the spindle covers. One crude method of measurement would be to take an indicator on a
magnetic base extended 10 inches between the table and spindle housing and observe the reading of the
indicator. A reading of more than .001 would indicate excessive vibration. The two common sources of noise are
the spindle and axis drives. Most complaints about vibration, accuracy, and finish can be attributed to incorrect
machining practices such as poor quality or damaged tooling, incorrect speeds or feeds, or poor fixturing.
Before concluding that the machine is not working properly, ensure that good machining practices are being
observed. These symptoms will not occur individually (Ex. A machine with backlash may vibrate heavily,
yielding a bad finish.). Put all of the symptoms together to arrive at an accurate picture of the problem.
Machine vibrates while jogging the axis with the hand wheel.
The HAAS control uses very high gain accelerations curves. This vibration as you jog is simply the
servos quickly trying to follow the handle divisions. If this is a problem, try using a smaller division on
the handle. You will notice the vibration more at individual clicks than when you are turning the handle
faster. This is normal.
The machine vibrates excessively in a cut.
This is a tough one to call because machining practices come into play. Generally speaking, the least
rigid element of a cut is the tool because it is the smallest part. Any cutter will vibrate if pushed beyond
its tensile strength. In order to eliminate the machine as the source of the problem, you need to check
the spindle and the backlash of the axes as described in the following sections. Once machining
practices have been eliminated as the source of vibration, observe the machine in both operation and
cutting air. Move the axes (individually) without the spindle turning and then turn the spindle without
moving the axes. Isolate whether the vibration comes from the spindle head or from an axis. Isolate
the source of vibration per "Spindle", "Servo Motors/Leadscrews", and "Gearbox and Spindle Motor"
sections.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
ACCURACY
Before you complain of an accuracy problem, please make sure you follow these simple dos and donts:
Ensure that the machine has been sufficiently warmed up before cutting parts. This will eliminate
mispositioning errors caused by thermal growth of the leadscrews (see "Thermal Growth" section).
Do not use a wiggler test indicator for linear dimensions. They measure in an arc and have sine/cosine
errors over larger distances.
Do not use magnetic bases as accurate test stops. The high accel/decel of the axis can cause them to
move.
Do not attach magnetic base to the sheet metal of the spindle head or table.
Do not mount the magnetic base on the spindle dogs.
Do not check for accuracy/repeatability using an indicator with a long extension.
Ensure that test indicators and stops are absolutely rigid and mounted to machined casting surfaces
(e.g. spindle head casting, spindle nose, or the table).
Do not rapid to position when checking accuracy. The indicator may get bumped and give an inaccurate
reading. For best results, feed to position at 5-10 inches per minute.
Check a suspected error with another indicator or method for verification.
Ensure that the indicator is parallel to the axis being checked to avoid tangential reading errors.
Center drill holes before using jobber length drills if accuracy is questioned.
Once machining practices have been eliminated as the source of the problem, determine specifically what
the machine is doing wrong.
June 2001
Machine will not interpolate a round hole.
Check that the machine is level (see "Installation" section).
Check for backlash ("Servo Motors/Leadscrews" section).
Bored holes do not go straight through the workpiece.
Check that the machine is level (see "Installation" section).
Check for squareness in the Z axis.
Machine bores holes out-of-round.
Check that the machine is level (see "Installation" section).
Check the sweep of the machine (see "Spindle Sweep Adjustment" section).
Bored holes are out of round or out of position.
Check for thermal growth of the leadscrew (see "Thermal Growth" section).
The spindle is not parallel to the Z axis. Check the spindle sweep to the table and the squareness
of the Z axis with a cylinder square. If available use a spindle master bar and indicate the spindle
to the Z axis.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
Machine mis-positions holes.
Check for thermal growth of the leadscrew (see "Thermal Growth" section).
Check that the machine is level (see "Installation" section).
Check for backlash (see "Servo Motors/Leadscrews" section).
Check the squareness of the X axis to the Y axis.
Machine leaves large steps when using a shell mill.
Check that the machine is level (see "Installation" section).
Check the sweep of the machine (see "Spindle Sweep Adjustment" section).
Cutter diameter too large for depth of cut.
Boring depth inaccurate
Check for thermal growth of the leadscrew (see "Thermal Growth" section).
Check the hydraulic counterbalance system. Check for:
abnormal noises from counterbalance system,
oil leaks (esp. at fittings and at filter at top of cylinder),
bound cylinder.
FINISH
Machining yields a poor finish.
Check for gearbox vibration.
Check for backlash ("Accuracy/Backlash" section)
Check the condition of the tooling and the spindle.
Check spindle
Check the condition of the servo motors.
Check that the is machine level.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
THERMAL GROWTH
A possible source of accuracy and positioning errors is thermal growth of the leadscrew. As the machine
warms up, the leadscrews expand in all three linear axes, causing accuracy and positioning errors, or inaccurate boring depths. This is especially critical in jobs that require high accuracy, machining multiple parts in one
setup, or machining one part with multiple setups.
June 2001
NOTE:On machines equipped with linear scales, thermal growth will not affect
NOTE:The leadscrew will always expand away from the motor end.
machine positioning or accuracy. However, it is still recommended that the
machine be warmed up before cutting parts.
VERIFY THERMAL GROWTH
There are a number of ways to verify the problem. The following procedure will verify thermal growth of the Xaxis leadscrew in a machine that has not been warmed up:
1.Home the machine. In MDI mode, press POSIT and PAGE DOWN to the OPER page.
2.Jog to an offset location on the table (example: X-15.0" Y-8.0" ). Select the X axis and press the
ORIGIN key to zero it. Select the Y axis and zero it.
3.Press the OFSET key, then scroll down to G110 (or any unused offset). Cursor to X and press
PART ZERO SET twice. This will set X0, Y0 at this position.
4.Enter the following program. It will start at the new zero position, rapid 10 inches in the X direction, feed the final .25 inches at 10 inches/min., and then repeat the X movement.
G00 G90 G110 X0 Y0;
X10.0;
G01 X10.25 F10. ;
M99;
5.In order to set up the indicator, run the program in SINGLE BLOCK mode, and stop it when X is at
10.25". Set the magnetic base on the table, with the indicator tip touching the spindle housing in
the X-axis, and zero it.
6.Exit SINGLE BLOCK mode, and run the program for a few minutes. Enter SINGLE BLOCK mode
again, stop the program when X is at 10.25", and take a final reading on the indicator. If the
problem is thermal growth, the indicator will show a difference in the X position.
NOTE:Ensure the indicator setup is correct as described in "Accuracy" section.
Errors in setup are common, and often incorrectly appear to be thermal growth.
7.A similar program can be written to test for thermal growth in the Y and Z axes, if necessary.
8
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June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
SOLUTIONS
Since there are many variables that affect thermal growth, such as the ambient temperature of the shop and
program feed rates, it is difficult to give one solution for all problems.
Thermal growth problems can generally be eliminated by running a warm-up program for approximately 20
minutes before machining parts. The most effective warm-up is to run the current program, at an offset Z
position above the part or table, with the spindle "cutting air". This will allow the leadscrews to warm up to the
correct temperature and stabilize. Once the machine is at temperature, the leadscrews won't expand any
further, unless they're allowed to cool down. A warm-up program should be run after each time the machine is
left idle.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
1.2 SPINDLE
NOT TURNING
Spindle not turning.
If there are any alarms, refer to "Alarms" section.
Check that the spindle turns freely when machine is off.
If motor turns but spindle does not, see "Belt Assembly" and "Spindle Motor & Transmission" sections.
Command spindle to turn at 1800 RPM and check spindle drive display. If display blinks bb, check
spindle orientation switch ("Spindle Orientation" section). If spindle drive does not light the RUN LED,
check forward/reverse commands from IOPCB ("Electrical Service").
June 2001
Check the wiring of analog speed command from MOTIF PCB to spindle drive (cable 720).
If spindle is still not turning, replace MOCON PCB ("Electrical Service").
If spindle is still not turning, replace spindle drive ("Electrical Service").
Check for rotation of the gearbox (if applicable) or the motor (VF-0). If the motor or gearbox operates,
check the drive belt ("Belt Assembly" section).
Disconnect the drive belt. If the spindle will not turn, it is seized and must be replaced ("Spindle
Assembly" section).
NOTE:Before using the replacement spindle, the cause of the previous failure must
be determined.
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June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
NOISE
Most noises attributed to the spindle actually lie in the motor/gearbox or drive belt of the machine. Isolate the
sources of noise as follows:
Excessive noise coming from the spindle head area.
On VF-1 through 6 models, first determine if the noise is related to the RPM of the motor or the RPM
of the spindle. For example: If the noise appears at 2000 RPM in high gear, listen for a similar noise
at 500 RPM in low gear. If the same noise persists, the problem lies with the gearbox. If the noise
disappears, the problem could be either the gearbox or the spindle, and further testing is necessary.
NOTE:The gear ratio is 1:1.25 in high gear, and 3.2:1 in low gear.
Remove the head covers and check the machines drive belt tension ("Tension Adjustment" section).
If the noise persists, turn the drive belt over on the pulleys. If the noise is significantly different, the
belt is at fault. Replace the belt ("Belt Assembly" section).
If the noise does not change, remove the belt and go on to the next step.
Check the pulleys for excessive runout (more than 0.003" axial or radial).
Run the motor (VF-0) or the gearbox (VF-1, VF-2, VF-3) with the drive belt disconnected. If the noise
persists, the problem lies with the gearbox/motor. If it disappears, go on to the next step.
Check for the correct amount of lubrication to the spindle bearings (0.5-1.0 cc every two hours) in an air
mist-lubricated spindle.
If the spindle is not getting lubrication, correct the problem per the lube and air diagram at the
back of this manual and replace the spindle ("Spindle Assembly" section).
If the spindle is getting lubrication, replace the spindle ("Spindle Assembly" section).
Note:Haas Automation does not honor warranty requests for gearbox or spindles
without vibration analyzer signatures.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
OVERHEATING
When investigating complaints of overheating, a temperature probe must be used to accurately check the
temperature at the top of the spindle taper. The temperature displayed in Diagnostics is not relevant. A machine
that runs at high RPM continuously will have a much warmer spindle than a machine that runs at a lower RPM.
New spindles tend to run much warmer than spindles that have already been run-in. In order to run a valid test
on a new spindle, ensure that it is properly run-in.
To run-in a spindle, run the following program (it will take approximately 6 hours):
NOTE:This program will step the spindle speed from 300 RPM up to 7500 RPM at
regular intervals of time, stop the spindle and allow it to cool to room
temperature, then restart it so the temperature can be monitored.
ALTERNATE SPINDLE RUN-IN PROGRAM
Run program #O02021 with the air pressure to the spindle set to 30 psi. (for all spindles). Program time is
approximately 2 hours. If possible run the program overnight by changing M30 to M99 so it can repeat. Adjust
spindle speed override depending on maximum spindle speed of machine: Set override 50% for 5,000 RPM
machines; Set at 100% for 7,500 and 10,000 RPM machines; Set at 150% for 15,000 RPM machines.
If at any time during this procedure the spindle temperature rises above 150 degrees (120 degrees
for 50 Taper), start the procedure over from the beginning and follow the steps below.
NOTE:Once run-in program is complete reset the air pressure back to 17psi. (20psi.
If the spindle fails this test for any reason, check the following:
for 15K spindles, 25psi. Mini-Mill) prior to checking spindle temperature.
Check for correct amount of lubrication.
NOTE:Over lubrication is a common source of overheating. Check the oil flow
carefully.
Check the drive belt tension. Belts that are too tight will cause heating of the top bearing in the
spindle housing.
Ensure that the correct oil is being used (refer to "Maintenance Schedule").
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TROUBLESHOOTING
STALLING / LOW TORQUE
Generally, complaints of stalling or low torque relate to incorrect tooling or machining practices. A spindle that
is tending to seize will yield a poor finish machining, run very hot and very loud. Investigate machining problems before concluding the problem exists with the spindle or spindle drive.
SPINDLE DRIVE
Low line voltage may prevent the spindle from accelerating properly. If the spindle takes a long time to accelerate, slows down or stays at a speed below the commanded speed with the load meter at full load, the spindle
drive and motor are overloaded. High load, low voltage, or too fast accel/decel can cause this problem.
If the spindle is accelerated and decelerated frequently, the regenerative load resistor on top of the control may
heat up. If this resistor heats beyond 1000C, a thermostat will generate an overheat alarm.
If the regen load resistors are not connected or open, this could then result in an overvoltage alarm. The
overvoltage occurs because the regenerative energy being absorbed from the motor while decelerating is turned
into voltage by the spindle drive. If this problem occurs, the possible fixes are to slow the decel rate or reduce
the frequency of spindle speed changes.
June 2001
VECTOR DRIVE
To properly troubleshoot the Vector Drive, use the following questions as a guide:
What alarms are generated?
When does the alarm occur?
Is the Vector Drive top fault light on?
Is there a fault light on any of the servo amplifiers?
Does the alarm reset?
Does the spindle motor turn at all?
Does the spindle turn freely by hand?
Have the C-axis parameters been confirmed?
What is the input voltage to the vector drive unit?
What does the DC Bus voltage measure? (320 VDC to 345 VDC)
Does the DC Bus voltage displayed on the diagnostic page match the measured DC Bus voltage?
All of the questions above must be answered. The DC Bus voltage should be between 320 VDC to 345 VDC
with the machine powered up but not running. If the voltage is not in this range, adjust the taps on the main
line transformer until this voltage range is achieved. There is a possibility the drive is faulty, but low Bus
voltage can also be caused by a shorted REGEN load or a shorted amplifier.
If the DC Bus voltage is below 50 VDC and never goes any higher, perform Steps 1-6.
14
1.With the machine powered up, is the green POWER-ON L.E.D. lit? If not, replace the Vector
Drive unit.
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June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
2.Power down the machine. Disconnect the REGEN load (terminals 1 and 2 on the Vector Drive
unit) and measure the resistance from each wire-to-chassis ground (open) and between the wire
leads. The resistance should be 8.6 ohms for machines with 20/15 Vector drives and HT10K mills
equipped with 40/30 drives. All other machines with 40/30 drives should measure 6 ohms. If not,
replace the REGEN load or cabling.
3.Disconnect cable 490 at terminals 2 and 3 of the Vector Drive and from the servo amplifiers. With
a multimeter in the diode mode, place the red meter lead to the +HV terminal and the black meter
lead to the -HV terminal of each amplifier. The meter should read open.
4.Reverse the leads: Place the red meter lead on the -HV terminal and the black lead on the +HV
terminal. The meter should read .7 ohms in both instances. If not, replace the faulty amplifier.
5.Measure the resistance between terminals 1 and 3 of the Vector Drive. The meter should read
greater than 100K ohms. If not, the Vector Drive is faulty.
6.If the green POWER-ON L.E.D. was lit (from Step 2), leave both 490 cables (2 and 3) disconnected from the drive and power up the machine.
a.Does the DC Bus voltage come up? If not, the Vector Drive is faulty.
b.Measure the voltage between terminals 1 and 3. The voltage should be 300
VDC or more. If not, the Vector Drive is faulty.
If both a and b check out okay, there is a problem with either the amplifiers or the REGEN load.
If the fault occurs upon acceleration -or- the spindle accelerates slowly -or- the spindle
makes noise, do the following:
7.Disconnect the output cables to the spindle motor. Turn on the machine and press <RESET>. Do
not command the spindle to turn. With a volt meter, measure the DC voltage between each output
phase (terminals 9, 10, and 11) to the 320V RTN (terminal 3). The meter should read 165 VDC in
each case, else one phase is faulty.
8.Measure the resistance across the motor wires from phase to phase and from each phase to
chassis. The meter should read .1 ohms phase-to-phase and open phase-to-chassis.
If the fault occurs upon deceleration or acceleration just as the spindle reaches its specified speed, or if an overvoltage alarm (119) occurred, do the following:
9.Disconnect the REGEN load resistors (terminals 1 and 2) and measure the resistance from each
wire lead-to-chassis ground and between the wire leads. The meter should read open lead-toground, and 6 ohms between the leads for machines with 40/30 Vector drives and 8.6 ohms
between the leads on machines with 20/15 Vector drives and HT10K mills.
10. Measure the resistance from terminal 1 to terminal 3. If the resistance is less than 100K, the drive
is faulty.
11. With the REGEN load left disconnected, power-up the machine and command a spindle speed of
700 RPM (300 RPM for lathes in high gear). Press <RESET> while monitoring the DC voltage
between terminal 1 and terminal 3. The voltage should read 330 VDC and then drop to less than
50 VDC momentarily. If not, that drive is faulty. If the voltage at RESET was okay and the alarm
was resettable, the REGEN load should be replaced even if the resistance appears to be okay.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
ORIENTATION
Spindle loses correct orientation.
Non Vector Drive
Check the orientation ring for tightness. Ensure the shaft on which the ring mounts is clean and is
free of grease and oil.
Check the orientation ring for cracks near the bolt holes or near the balancing holes.
If there are cracks, replace the ring.
Check the shot pin on the gearbox for binding, damage, and proper operation. Replace it if it is
damaged.
Vector Drive
Check alarm history. Look for Spindle Z Fault, or Spindle Reference Missing alarms. If these
alarms exist, there may be a defective spindle encoder, or a broken ground or shield connection.
Check parameters.
Check for a mechanical slip at the contact points of all components between the spindle and the
spindle encoder.
June 2001
TOOLS STICKING IN TAPER
Tool sticking in the taper causes ATC to be pulled up; accompanied by a popping noise as
the tool holder pops out of the spindle taper.
NOTE:This problem may occur after loading a cold tool into a hot spindle (a
NOTE:In a proper working system the spindle will pop slightly during a tool change.
Check the condition of the tooling, verifying the taper on the tooling is ground and not turned. Look
for damage to the taper caused by chips in the taper or rough handling. If the tooling is suspected,
try to duplicate the symptoms with known-to-be-good tooling.
Check the condition of the spindle taper. Look for damage caused by chips or damaged tooling.
Also, look for damage such as deep gouges in the spindle taper caused by tool crashing.
Duplicate the cutting conditions under which the deflection occurs, but do not execute an
automatic tool change. Try instead to release the tool using the tool release button on the front of
the spindle head. If sticking is observed, the deflection is not caused by improper ATC
adjustment, but is a problem in the spindle head on the machine.
Ensure the spindle is not running too hot (140° or above).
result of thermal expansion of the tool holder inside the spindle taper). It
may also occur due to heavy milling, milling with long tooling, or cuts with
heavy vibration. This also is the result of thermal expansion.
If sticking only occurs during these situations, check your application to
ensure proper machining techniques are being used; check the feeds and
speeds for the tools and material being used. If a tool is pulled out of the
extractors due to a tool stuck in the taper then the unclamp switch is not
adjusted correctly or the switch could be bad.
This popping does not create flex in the carousel or the need to remove the tool
with a mallet.
16
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June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
Check air supply. Max air pressure drop of 10psi. during a tool change is allowed.
Check drawbar height adjustment.
Does the tool tip to the spindle gauge line exceed 3.5?
Are the correct pull studs being used?
Tool Holder / Spindle Fretting
Is fretting present on the tool holder or spindle?
Fretting is the result of sideways movement of a tool holder in the spindle. Fretting can leave a wave pattern on
the mating surfaces and will affect the fit and finish of both the tool holder and the spindle.
If light fretting is present, check the application to ensure proper machining techniques are being
used; check the feeds and speeds for the tools and material being used.
Light fretting and rust may be cleaned from the tool holder with a fine scotchbrite hand pad and
solvent. If scotchbrite is used, clean the tool holder and spindle taper thoroughly after use with an
alcohol pad. Apply a thin coat of light oil to the taper of the tool holder. Grease the pull stud.
96-8100 rev C
17
TROUBLESHOOTING
1.3 SERVO MOTORS / LEADSCREWS
NOT OPERATING
All problems that are caused by servo motor failures should also register an alarm. Check the alarm history to
determine the problems cause before any action is taken.
Servo motor is not functioning.
Check the power cable from rear electrical cabinet to ensure connection is tight.
Encoder is faulty or contaminated (Alarms 139-142, 153-156, 165-168, 182-185). Replace motor
assembly on brushless machines, replace the encoder on brush machines.
Open circuit in motor (Alarms 139-142, 153-156, 182-185). Replace motor assembly ("Axis Motor
Removal / Installation").
Motor has overheated, resulting in damage to the interior components (Alarms 135-138, 176).
Replace motor assembly ("Axis Motor Removal/Installation").
Wiring is broken, shorted, or missing shield (Alarms 153-156, 175, 182-185).
Dust in the motor from brushes has shorted out the motor (VF-E only) (Alarms 153-156, 175, 182-
185). Replace motor assembly ("Axis Motor Removal/Installation").
Motor has overheated; no damage to the interior components. OVERHEAT alarm has been
triggered. After thorough check of motor (DO NOT DISASSEMBLE!), take necessary steps to
eliminate the problem and alarm to resume operation. If motor is still inoperable, replace motor
assembly ("Axis Motor Removal/Installation").
Check for broken or loose coupling between the servo motor and the lead screw. Replace or repair
the coupling ("Axis Motor Removal/Installation")
Check for a damaged lead screw, and replace if necessary ("Lead Screw Removal and Installation"
section).
June 2001
18
NOTE:If a lead screw fails, it is most often due to a failed bearing sleeve. When
replacing the lead screw in an older machine, always replace the bearing
sleeve with the current angular contact bearing sleeve ("Bearing Sleeve
Removal and Installation" section).
96-8100 rev C
June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
NOISE
Lead screw noise is usually caused by a lack of lubrication and is usually accompanied by heating. Other
causes are misalignment, bearing sleeve damage, or ball nut damage. Check the alarm history of the machine
and look for axis overcurrent and following error alarms.
NOTE:Do not replace lead screws or bearing sleeves without due consideration; they
are extremely durable and reliable. Verify that customer complaints are not due
to tooling, programming, or fixturing problems.
Servo motor noise.
Disconnect the servo motor from the lead screw and rotate by hand. If the noise persists, replace
the motor assembly ("Axis Motor Removal/Installation" section).
Noise is caused by motor brushes (VF-E only). Remove and inspect brushes. Blow out brush dust
and inspect the armature.
Lead screw noise.
Ensure oil is getting to the lead screw through the lubrication system (See Air and Oil Diagrams).
Look for a plugged metering valve.
Check for damage to the bearing sleeve.
NOTE:The current angular contact design sleeve has a fixed pre-load; it cannot be
adjusted.
Run the axis back and forth. The motor will get very hot if the bearing sleeve is damaged. If so, turn
the axis by hand and feel for roughness in the lead screw. Loosen the clamp nuts at both ends of
the lead screw. If the symptom disappears, replace the bearing sleeve. Be certain to check for
damage to the lead screw shaft where the bearing sleeve is mounted.
If the noise persists, the lead screw is damaged and must be replaced. When replacing
the lead screw in an older machine, always replace the bearing sleeve with the current
angular contact design bearing sleeve.
Misalignment in the lead screw itself will tend to cause the lead screw to tighten up and make
excessive noise at both ends of the travel. The ballnut may get hot. Misalignment radially at the
yoke where the lead screw ball nut mounts is indicated by heating up of the ball nut on the lead
screw, and noise and tightness through out the travel of the lead screw. Misalignment at the yoke
where the ball nut mounts is indicated by noise and tightness at both ends of the travel of the lead
screw. The ball nut may get hot.
96-8100 rev C
NOTE:Customer complaints of Lead Screw noise may not indicate a bad screw.
Screws from different manufacturers produce varying levels of noise. Often
machines are built with two or more different brands of screws in the same
machine. If complaints are generated about one axis screw in comparison to
another, it is possible that the screws are simply sourced from different
manufacturers.
19
TROUBLESHOOTING
ACCURACY / BACKLASH
Accuracy complaints are usually related to tooling, programming, or fixturing problems. Eliminate these
possibilities before working on the machine.
Poor mill table-positioning accuracy.
Check for backlash in the lead screw as outlined below:
Check parameters for that axis
Check for a loose encoder on the servo motor. Also, ensure the key in the motor or the lead screw
is in place and the coupling is tight (Brush machines only).
INITIAL PREPARATION -
Turn the VMC ON. ZERO RET the machine and move the mill table to the approximate center of its travel in the
X and Y directions. Move the spindle head to approximate center of the Z-axis travel, also.
June 2001
CHECKING X-AXIS:
1.Set up a dial indicator and base on the mill table as shown in Fig. 1-1.
20
Figure 1-1. Dial indicator in position to check X-axis.
96-8100 rev C
June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
2. Set dial indicator and the Distance to go display in the HANDLE JOG mode to zero as follows:
Zero the dial indicator.
Press the MDI button on the control panel.
Press the HANDLE JOG button on the control panel.
The Distance to go display on the lower right hand corner should read: X=0 Y=0 Z=0
3. Set the rate of travel to .001 on the control panel and jog the machine .010 in the positive (+) X
direction. Jog back to zero (0) on the display. The dial indicator should read zero (0) ± .0001.
4. Repeat Step 3 in the negative (-) direction.
TOTAL DEVIATION BETWEEN THE DIAL INDICATOR AND THE CONTROL PANEL DISPLAY SHOULD
NOT EXCEED .0002.
An alternate method for checking backlash is to place the dial indicator as shown in Fig. 1-1 and manually
push on the mill table in both directions. The dial indicator should return to zero after releasing the table.
NOTE: The servos must be on to check backlash by this method.
CHECKING Y-AXIS:
1. Set up a dial indicator and base on the mill table as shown in Fig. 1-2.
96-8100 rev C
Figure 1-2. Dial indicator in position to check Y-axis.
2. Set dial indicator and the Distance to go display in the HANDLE JOG mode to zero as follows:
Zero the dial indicator.
Press the MDI button on the control panel.
Press the HANDLE JOG button on the control panel.
The Distance to go display on the lower right hand corner should read: X=0 Y=0 Z=0.
21
TROUBLESHOOTING
3. Set the rate of travel to .001 on the control panel and jog the machine .010 in the positive (+) Y
direction. Jog back to zero (0) on the display. The dial indicator should read zero (0) ± .0001.
4. Repeat Step 3 in the negative (-) direction.
TOTAL DEVIATION BETWEEN THE DIAL INDICATOR AND THE CONTROL PANEL DISPLAY SHOULD
NOT EXCEED .0002.
An alternate method for checking backlash is to place the dial indicator as shown in Fig. 1-2 and manually
push on the mill table in both directions. The dial indicator should return to zero after releasing the table.
NOTE: The servos must be on to check backlash by this method.
CHECKING Z-AXIS:
1. Set up a dial indicator and base on the mill table as shown in Fig. 1-3.
2. Manually push up and down on the spindle head while listening for a clunk. Also, watch for any
rapid change in the dial indicator. Either of these indicate possible backlash.
June 2001
NOTE: Servos must be on to check for backlash in the Z-axis.
NOTE: Do not mistake deflection for backlash in the system.
22
Figure 1-3 Dial indicator in position to check Z-axis.
96-8100 rev C
June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
If backlash is found in the system, check for the following possible causes:
Loose SHCS attaching the ball nut to the nut housing. Tighten the SHCS as described in
Mechanical Service.
Loose SHCS attaching the nut housing to the mill table, spindle head, or saddle, depending on the
axis. Tighten the SHCS as described in Mechanical Service.
Loose clamp nut on the bearing sleeve. Tighten the SHCS on the clamp nut.
Loose motor coupling. Tighten as described in Mechanical Service.
Broken or loose flex plates on the motor coupling.
NOTE:The coupling cannot be serviced in the field and must be replaced as a unit
if it is found to be defective.
Loose SHCS attaching the bearing sleeve to the motor housing. Tighten as described in "Lead
Screw Removal and Installation".
Defective thrust bearings in the bearing sleeve. Replace the bearing sleeve as outlined in "Bearing
Sleeve Removal and Installation".
Loose SHCS attaching the axis motor to the motor housing. If the SHCS are found to be loose,
inspect the motor for damage and if none is found, tighten as described in "Axis Motor Removal/
Installation". If damage is found, replace the motor.
Incorrect backlash compensation number in the parameter in the machine. Check Parameters 13,
27, and 41.
Worn lead screw.
VIBRATION
Excessive servo motor vibration.
Swap the suspected bad servo motor with a known good driver and check to see if there is a driver
problem. If needed, replace the DRIVER PCB ("Electrical Service" section).
Check all Parameters of the suspected axis against the Parameters as shipped with the machine. If
there are any differences, correct those and determine how the Parameters were changed.
A bad motor can cause vibration if there is an open or short in the motor. A short would normally
cause a GROUND FAULT or OVERCURRENT alarm; check the ALARMS. An ohmmeter applied to the
motor leads should show between 1 and 3 ohms between leads, and over 1 megohm from leads to
chassis. If the motor is open or shorted, replace.
96-8100 rev C
23
TROUBLESHOOTING
OVERHEATING
Servo motor overheating.
If a motor OVERHEAT alarm occurs (ALARMS 135-138), check the Parameters for an incorrect
setting. Axis flags in Parameters 1, 15, or 29 can invert the overheat switch (OVER TEMP NC).
If the motor is actually getting hot to the touch, there is excessive load on the motor. Check the users
application for excessive load or high duty cycle. Check the lead screw for binding ("Accuracy/
Backlash" section). If the motor is binding by itself, replace in accordance with "Axis Motor Removal/
Installation".
FOLLOWING ERRORS
FOLLOWING ERROR (Brush Machines only) or SERVO ERROR TOO LARGE alarms 103106, 187 occur on one or more axes sporadically.
Check DC bus voltage on diagnostics page #2 (brush machines only). Verify this voltage on the drive
cards in the control panel. If it is at the low side of the recommended voltages, change the transformer
tap to the next lower voltage group as explained in the Installation Manual.
Check motor wiring for a short.
Check driver card ("Electrical Service").
Check servo motor ("Axis Motor Removal/Installation").
Check encoder (brush machines only)
June 2001
DRIVE FAULT / OVERCURRENT
Z-axis motor overcurrent.
Alarm not cleared
Low counterbalance pressure
Check Z axis parameters
Check the lead screw for binding
Check motor and cable for shorts
Check amplifier (drive card on a VF-E)
VF-6 with Z axis brake only
Brake power fuse blown
Brake power transformer blown
Brake power rectifier blown
Cabling pinched
Brake failed
24
96-8100 rev C
June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
LEAD SCREWS - VISUAL INSPECTION
The three main causes of Lead Screw failure are:
Loss of Lubrication
Contamination
Machine Crash
Wear of the Nut balls and the screw threads is generally a non-issue under proper operating conditions.
Each type of suspect cause will leave telltale signs on the Lead Screw itself.
Loss of Lubrication:
The lubrication system of the machine provides a layer of oil for the Lead Screw components to operate on,
eliminating metal-to-metal contact. Should a problem with the lubrication system develop, that failure will
accelerate all wear issues.
1. Dry metal-to-metal contact following lube breakdown will create intense heat at the contact points.
The Nut balls will weld to the Nut races due to the heat and pressure of the preload. When movement of the Lead Screw continues, the welds will be broken, ripping off particles of both the balls
and the races. This loss of diameter will reduce the preload, reducing machine accuracy.
Lead Screws with this type of wear, but no screw surface marring, can be repaired by the factory.
2. A second cause of wear of the Lead Screws is material fatigue. Material fatigue typically occurs at
the end of the Lead Screw service life. Signs of material fatigue include black, contaminated
coolant, pitting of the screw surface, loss of preload, and metal flakes on the Lead Screw.
Lead Screws suffering from material fatigue are not repairable and are considered scrap.
Contamination:
Contamination of the lubrication and/or coolant systems of the machine will produce problems with the Lead
Screws.
Check the condition of the lube on the Lead Screw threads.
1. If the lube is wet and clean, this indicates a properly functioning lube system.
2. If the lube is thick and dark, but free of metal chips, the lube itself is old and must be changed out.
The entire system should be cleaned of the old lube.
3. If the lube is wet and black, the lube system has been contaminated by metal particles. Inspect
the Lead Screws for wear.
Contamination of the lube and/or coolant systems can be caused by a wearing Lead Screw, or by metal chips
entering the systems through open or loose way covers. Check all way covers and seals for excessive clearances.
96-8100 rev C
25
TROUBLESHOOTING
Machine Crash:
A hard machine crash can cause a Lead Screw to lock up. The static overload created during a machine crash
can break apart the Nut balls, denting the thread surfaces. Turning the Nut by hand will result in an obvious
grinding feeling and/or sound.
1. Check the screw for straightness.
2. Look for ball dents at the ends of the screw length. These indents will be a sure sign of a hard
machine crash. The inertia of the table is transferred, due to the sudden stop, directly to the balls
inside the Nut, creating impressions on the screw surface.
CLEANING
In most cases, a thorough cleaning of the suspect Lead Screw will resolve bad screw issues, including noise
complaints.
1. Manually jog the Nut to one end of the screw.
June 2001
2. Visually inspect the screw threads. Look for metal flakes, dark or thick lube, or contaminated
coolant: See Visual Inspection - Contamination above.
3. Use alcohol, or other approved cleaning agents, to wash the screw.
CAUTION! Do not use detergents, degreasers, or solvents to clean Lead Screws or
their components. Do not use water-based cleaners to avoid rust.
4. Jog the Nut to the other end of its travel. If metal flakes are now present on the screw threads, you
may have wear issues.
5. Re-lubricate screw threads before returning the machine to service.
26
96-8100 rev C
June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
1.4 AUTOMATIC TOOL CHANGER
DEFLECTION
Deflection is usually caused by ATC misalignment, and sometimes caused by damaged or poor quality tooling,
a damaged spindle taper, or a damaged drawbar or poor air supply. Before beginning any troubleshooting,
observe the direction of the ATC deflection.
During a tool change, ATC appears to be pushed down.
Check to see if pull studs on the tool holder are correct and tight.
Check the adjustment of the Z offset ("Setting Parameter 64").
NOTE:If the offset is incorrect a tool changer crash can occur and a thorough
inspection of the ATC will be necessary.
Check the adjustment of the Z offset. Check parameters 71, 72, and 143 against the values that
are in the documentation sent with the machine.
Ensure the tool holders are held firmly in place by the extractor forks.
Ensure the balls on the drawbar move freely in the holes in the drawbar when the tool release
button is pressed. If they do not move freely, the ATC will be pushed down about 1/4" before the
tool holder is seated in the taper, resulting in damage to the roller bolts on the ATC shuttle.
Replace the drawbar.
Check Drawbar height adjustment.
If TSC, check for excessive coolant tip wear.
Tool holder sticking in the spindle taper causes the ATC to be pulled up as the spindle
head is travelling the distance specified in parameter 71; accompanied by a popping noise
as the tool holder pops out of the spindle taper.
NOTE:This problem may occur after loading a cold tool into a hot spindle (a result
of thermal expansion of the tool holder inside the spindle taper. It may also
occur in cuts with heavy vibration. This also is the result of thermal expansion.
If sticking only occurs during these situations, check your application to ensure
proper machining techniques are being used. If tool is pulled out of extractors
due to a tool being stuck in the taper then the unclamp switch is not adjusted
correctly or the switch could be bad.
96-8100 rev C
Check the condition of the customers tooling, verifying the taper on the tool holder is ground and
not turned. Look for damage to the taper caused by chips in the taper or rough handling. If the
tooling is suspected, try to duplicate the symptoms with different tooling.
Check the condition of the spindle taper. Look for damage caused by chips or damaged tooling.
Also, look for damage such as deep gouges in the spindle taper caused by tool crashing. See
"Spindle Assembly" section for spindle cartridge replacement.
27
TROUBLESHOOTING
Duplicate the cutting conditions under which the deflection occurs, but do not execute an auto-
matic tool change. Try instead to release the tool using the tool release button on the front of the
spindle head. If sticking is observed, the deflection is not caused by improper ATC adjustment, but
is a problem in the spindle or tool release piston. See the "Spindle Assembly" section in Mechanical Service for spindle cartridge replacement.
Check air supply pressure it should be 85 psi (min). An air pressure drop of no more than 10 psi
during tool release is acceptable. An air pressure drop greater than 10 psi is caused by a supply
line restriction or an undersize supply line. Use of quick couplers (1/4") can cause restriction.
Directly connecting the air hose to a barb fitting can help.
During a tool change, ATC appears to be pulled up; no popping noises.
Check the adjustment of the Z offset ("Setting Parameter 64" section).
June 2001
NOTE: If the offset is incorrect, a tool changer crash can occurred, and a thorough
inspection of the ATC will be necessary.
Ensure the roller bolts on the shuttle of the ATC are tight against the V-guides on the ATC holding
arm. If the lower right roller bolt is loose against the V-guide, the upper right bolt is probably bent.
See the following section ("ATC Crashing") or "Roller Bolt Replacement", for roller bolt replacement.
NOTE: Bent roller bolts are a symptom of another problem with the ATC. Repair the
bent roller bolt and then isolate the ATC problem.
Check Parameter 71 against the values that are in the documentation sent with the machine.
Ensure the balls on the drawbar move freely in the holes in the drawbar when the tool release
button is pressed. If they do not move freely, the ATC will be pushed down about ¼ before the tool
holder is seated in the taper, resulting in damage to the roller bolts on the ATC shuttle. Replace
drawbar.
Tool holders twist against extractor fork during a tool change.
Check the alignment of the ATC in the X and Y axes ("Automatic Tool Changer Alignment" section).
28
Tool holders spin at all pockets of the ATC when the ATC shuttle retracts.
ATC is misaligned in the Y axis. Realign ATC ("Automatic Tool Changer Alignment" section).
NOTE: Observe the direction the tool holder rotates, as this will be the direction in
which the Y axis of the ATC needs to be moved.
96-8100 rev C
June 2001
TROUBLESHOOTING
Tool holders spin only at certain pockets of the ATC when the ATC shuttle retracts.
Check all the extractor forks to ensure they are centered in the pocket of the ATC. Also, see
above. See "Extractor Fork Replacement" section, if necessary.
NOTE:If the ATC shows the problem as described here, each extractor fork must be
CRASHING
The most common ATC crashes are outlined as follows:
checked and centered to eliminate the possibility of the ATC being aligned
against an incorrectly-centered fork.
Shuttle crashes into spindle when a tool change is commanded (tool holder is in the pocket
facing the spindle head).
Rotate the carousel to an empty pocket. Refer to the Programming and Operation manual for
correct operation.
NOTE:This crash is fairly common and is a result of operator error. If the ATC is
stopped in the middle of tool change cycle, the operator must command the
ATC to an empty pocket before the machine will operate correctly. Repeated
crashes of this type can damage the I/O board, the slip clutch, and the shuttle
motor in the ATC.
During a tool change spindle crashes into top of the tool holder after a turret rotation.
When the spindle head moves down over the top of the tool holder during a tool change, the pull stud will bind
inside the drawbar bore of the spindle, forcing the ATC down, breaking the carousel. Bending the upper right
roller bolt on the ATC shuttle or completely breaking it off is also possible. Tool holder is not held correctly in
the extractor fork, possibly held only in one side of the extractor and at an odd angle.
96-8100 rev C
Check all of the extractor forks on the ATC.
During a tool change spindle crashes into top of the tool holder after a turret rotation.
The balls in the drawbar do not move freely, causing the ATC to be forced down far enough to break the carousel. Bending the upper right roller bolt on the ATC shuttle or completely breaking it off is also possible.
Ensure the balls on the drawbar move freely in the holes in the drawbar when the tool release
button is pressed. If this failure occurs, check all of the extractor forks on the ATC for damage and
repair the spindle drawbar.
Check drawbar height and set according to the appropriate section, if necessary.
ATC properly deposits a tool holder in the spindle, but the tools are dropped onto the
machine table when the shuttle retracts.
Inspect the balls and the Belleville springs in the drawbar. See appropriate section and replace
drawbar.
29
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