there are several ways to understand how spindles fail
This happens for numerous reasons, but most spindles fail because of different forms of contamination and crashes.
There are other reasons such as improper installation, improper use, and sometimes they just run for 5 to 10 years and fail because of natural bearing fatigue that comes with age.
But let’s dive into the 2 major causes: contamination and crashes.
Contamination:
There are two forms of contamination: Chip or coolant ingression.
Coolant ingression can get inside of a spindle motor and short out the windings or wash out the lubrication in the bearings. Both will lead to premature failures.
Chip ingression mostly occurs when the metal chips from the machining process get inside of the bearings. Again, this causes premature failure.
But what leads to those events?
Design flaws in the spindle from the OEM or units being improperly assembled, tested and, in some cases, misused.
Crashes: Crashes normally occur because of operator or programming errors. Typically, it happens when the spindle is driven into the worktable or components that surround it. Damage to the shaft taper and spindle bearings will result. Additional Imperfections to the spindle bearing components will cause problems like vibration, excessive generation of heat, runout, etc. which all will lead to premature failures or immediate failures.
Motor City Can Extend Your Spindle Life!
We addressed this a while back on how you can tell your cnc spindle is going bad. So if you are unsure, reach out to us about repairs.
Our trained experts are available to help solve your CNC spindle repair challenges.
Contact us for a FREE quote today by clicking the link below and filling out the form.