If you are cutting a lot of material, it is natural for your laser machine to produce a lot of dust. Most of the dust is collected in the dust collector, which should be checked and emptied on a daily basis. Inevitably, some dust will make its way to other parts of the machine for example, the dust flaps and the electrical control cabinets.
The dust flaps are on the inside bottom of the machine. They open and close as the axis runs back. Most of the cutting dust passes through these flaps. You should clean the whole inside of the machine once a month to prevent dust from collecting on them and then hardening.
If the dust collected on the dust flaps is not cleaned off, the flaps will fail and cause additional dust problems. Repairing failed dust flaps is a major service operation that can easily be avoided. It is certainly well worth the time needed to clean them once a month.
You should also vacuum the bellows to clean off the abrasive dust. Check the bellows for oil spots and never allow the bellows to become coated with oil.
No matter how hard you try to prevent dust, some dust can get inside the electrical cabinets. To prevent damage, the inside of the electrical cabinets should be vacuumed every year. Be sure to turn off the power to the machines and lock them out before cleaning.
You should never use any compressed air or gas to blow the dust around. Whilst the machine is shut down, you should also check the functions of the air conditioners and their cleanliness.
If you have any questions about maintaining your laser cutting machine, please call the TRUMPF Service Department on 0870 125 2300.