Signs Your Robot Needs Repair
Production lines rely on industrial robots to keep manufacturing on track and running smoothly. A breakdown or malfunction can put a wrench in production, and cause downtime and a loss of profits.
Knowing the signs that your robot needs repair can keep things running smoothly and downtime at a minimum.
Read on to learn what signs to look for that might indicate your robot needs repair.
WASTING TIME AND ENERGY
Industrial robots are designed to make a production line more efficient, so if you notice that it might not be performing up to standard, this is a clear indicator that repair or maintenance may be needed. Watch for the robot’s movements and if there seems to be a delay, or if there are unnecessary gestures or motions, diagnosing issues and repairs should be on the docket.
NRTC Automation runs robots through at least 50 cycles so that we can observe movements, motions, and its ability to repeat each function. Observing this way allows for surface-level errors to be easily spotted, and we can create a checklist to problem shoot based on what errors arise.
INSPECT THE TEACH PENDANT
Teach pendants can offer one of the most straightforward indicators of an issue. A teach pendant, or teach box, is the control box for a robot’s programming. They are used to teach a robot the step-by-step processes that it will be required to perform and is usually handheld. Think of it as an educational gaming system.
If you think there might be an issue with your robot, consult the teach pendant and programming as one of the first steps in troubleshooting. There is valuable information in the system, and if there are any programming errors, they should show up on the pendant’s screen.
CHECK THE CHARGE
An easy checklist item when troubleshooting robot issues should be checking the batteries. Something as simple as a low or depleted battery can cause a variety of issues.
Keeping a robot’s batteries updated should be a part of routine maintenance, and logging install and replacement dates a part of normal documentation.
OVERHEATING
Robots and machinery, when running, produce heat, and there are standard temperatures to look for in motors and elements, such as the servo motor. If these are overheating, that can be a sure sign that your robot needs repairs.
ADDITIONAL TROUBLESHOOTING
Additional signs of repair to look for include the inability to upgrade properly, a lower than usual number of completed cycles, or connection errors. And when it comes down to it, no one knows your robots better than the people that work on them every day. If you or your employees think there might be a problem, it’s worth looking into it.
Prevention is Key
Routine maintenance, planning, and installing timely updates are all key to keeping a robot working at peak performance. NRTC Automation offers not only training but industrial robot refurbishing.
Reconditioning and refurbishing ensure your robot stays running smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, investing in maintenance and refurbishment is cheaper than replacing it with brand new equipment.
NRTC Automation robotic training programs work with your team to personalize hands-on training based on your needs and requirements. The end result is an empowered team with the confidence and skills to diagnose and repair robots in-house.