kuraki kbt-11wdx tool change fault

[MAINTAINERS]

Hi there
could anyone help us, we have a recurring fault on the auto tool changer section of our machine. The used tool changes over ok but when the new tool is inserted into the spindle the changeover stops. Sometimes the tool has been removed from the spindle and it stops just before being sent back to the tool magazine. we are running with a fanuc 15M program. could there be a sensor or limit switch causing the problem. The fault is very intermitant and can be reset manually but it would be great to find the root of the problem.
thanks Maintainers

[Dan Fritz]

It's most likely to be a sensor or a limit switch of some kind. The programmable controller (PC) logic, sometimes called "the ladder", is responsible for sequencing the tool changer. At each step in the tool change operation, the PC sends a signal to energize a solonoid or start a motor, then (when the operation is complete) a sensor or limit switch signal reports that the action is complete. The PC is simply outputting a signal then waiting for a confirmation that the action has been finished.

The fact that your problem is intermittant tells me that it's either mechanical in nature, or possibly a bad sensor or limit switch. Look for switches that are filled with oil or coolent, look for loose wires, and look for wires that might be broken inside a cable duct. Sometimes on a Z axis, a bundle of wires has to flex inside a duct as the axis moves. That's a weak spot for many machines.

Also, if any of these motions are powered by compressed air, be sure that your air lines are clean and there is some lubrication in the air supply. Contaminated air lines or too little or too much air lube can cause lots of trouble with air cylinders and soloniod valves.

[Al_The_Man]

As a follow on from what Dan mentioned, it is very helpfull if you get the hang of trouble shooting using the on screen ladder display.
The art is to figure out what the next operation is in the process (what solenoid is supposed to be energised) Call up the rung that displays the solenoid output and see what input etc is lacking, and causing the hang up.
Al.

[RRL]

What , if any, alarms are on the control?
I have several Kuraki manuals that I can look at to possibly help you.

I just had a service call on a KBT-11WA this past Monday, and it was a 60 min. repair.

RRL