Maintenance
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© 2015 Vision Engraving Systems
6.2
General Cleaning
Chip Removal
Plastic and metal chips generated during the engraving process should be removed from the engraving
surface periodically. A portable vacuum is suggested for chip removal, but applying direct suction to
the spindle area is not recommended. Note that this cleaning can be minimized and greatly simplified
through the use of the optional vacuum chip removal system. The vacuum chip removal system
removes chips and dust created by engraving. This system can also extend the life of other
components in the system, as prompt removal of chips reduces contamination and overheating in the
spindle area. The vacuum chip removal system also keeps the nose cone from skipping over letters
when chips become trapped between the nose cone and the engraving material.
Cleaning The Nose Cone
The nose cone around the cutter may accumulate dust and chips that cannot be removed by
vacuuming or blowing on them with low pressure air. CAUTION! High pressure air can damage the
spindle. Two types of nose cones are available; one nose cone is designed to be used with the vacuum
system, the other is not. Cleaning methods depend on the type of nose cone in use.
With a vacuum chip removal system, most of the chips will be removed during the engraving process. If
the suction nozzle becomes clogged, remove the hose connection to the nose cone. Remove the
cutter, then unscrew the vacuum nose cone. Using a vacuum or an air hose, clean out the nose and
the vacuum tube leading to the nose cone. Reinstall the nose cone and the vacuum hose.
Without a vacuum chip removal system you should remove the cutter before attempting to clean the
nose cone. The nose cone retainer ring, the nose cone, and the micrometer collar
should all be
removed
and cleaned using a vacuum or compressed air. The three nose cone components should be
removed and cleaned at least every day, or as frequently as necessary. Failure to clean the nose cone
regularly will result in premature spindle failure.
Cleaning the Vacuum Filter (only with the vacuum chip removal option)
On systems with a vacuum chip removal system, frequent cleaning of the vacuum filter is necessary for
proper performance. When engraving with the vacuum filter system, the filter should be checked and
cleaned several times a day, depending on the amount of engraving performed. If the vacuum does not
appear to be functioning efficiently, clean the filter more frequently.
To clean the vacuum filter system, disconnect the vacuum hose from the canister. Loosen the three
wing nuts on top of the canister enough to allow the attached bolts to swing away from the lid, then
remove the lid. Do not completely remove the wing nuts. There are two filters inside the canister.
Carefully remove the inner, paper filter. (The paper and cloth filters tend to stick together). Empty the
paper filter, and shake it out completely, being careful not to damage it as the filters are reusable. After
shaking out the paper filter remove and empty the cloth filter in the same manner as the paper filter. Do
not wash either filter. Place the paper filter back inside the cloth filter, and place the cloth filter back
inside the vacuum canister.
