Scheduled Maintenance Procedures for the NexBot Safety LA013-008 Robot Arm

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Tools Required

• Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) kit
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Calibrated torque wrench (up to 600 Nm)
• Metric socket set
• Manual grease gun
• Lint-free cloths
• Approved cleaning solvent

Article

This document outlines the standard preventative maintenance schedule and procedures for the NexBot Safety LA013-008 6-Axis Robot Arm. Adhering to this schedule is critical for maintaining the robot's high performance, repeatability (±0.05 mm), and operational safety. Regular maintenance helps prevent unplanned downtime and extends the service life of the equipment.

Safety Precautions

WARNING: Failure to follow safety procedures can result in serious injury or death, and damage to the equipment. All maintenance must be performed by qualified personnel.

1. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): Before performing any maintenance, completely disconnect and lock out the main power source (480VAC) to the robot controller.
2. Release Stored Energy: Ensure all pneumatic and hydraulic pressure is safely vented. Allow capacitors in the controller to discharge for at least 5 minutes after power-off.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and gloves.
4. Secure the Arm: If maintenance requires releasing the brakes, the robot arm must be mechanically supported to prevent unexpected movement or collapse.

Maintenance Schedule

• Daily (or per shift):
• Visually inspect the robot arm and cables for any signs of damage, leaks, or loose connections.
• Listen for any unusual noises during operation.
• Check the work cell for any new obstructions or hazards.

• Monthly (or every 350 hours):
• Clean the robot's exterior surfaces.
• Perform a detailed inspection of all external cables for chafing, cuts, or wear.
• Check the torque of the robot's base mounting bolts.

• Annually (or every 4000 hours):
• Perform all monthly checks.
• Re-lubricate all six axes (J1-J6).
• Replace the encoder backup batteries in the robot base.
• Inspect the integrity of all seals and gaskets.

Required Parts and Lubricants

• Annual Maintenance Kit: NXB-MNT-642-006 (Includes batteries, seals, and applicators)
• Approved Robot Grease: NXB-GEN-712-004
• Replacement Cables (as needed): NXB-CBL-541-005
• Encoder Backup Battery: 3.6V Lithium Battery (Included in NXB-MNT-642-006)

Detailed Maintenance Procedures

### Fastener Torque Check (Monthly)

Using a calibrated torque wrench, verify the torque on the main mounting bolts securing the robot base to the floor or pedestal.

• Procedure:

1. Ensure the robot is in a safe, supported position.
2. Access the base mounting bolts.
3. Set the torque wrench to 550 Nm (405 ft-lbs).
4. Tighten each bolt in a star pattern until the wrench clicks. Do not overtighten.

### Axis Lubrication (Annually / 4000 Hours)

Proper lubrication is essential for the longevity of the gear reducers in each axis. The NexBot Safety LA013-008 uses grease fittings for replenishment.

• Procedure:

1. Power down and perform LOTO.
2. Locate the grease fittings (zerks) for each axis (J1-J6). Refer to the robot's technical manual for specific locations.
3. Clean the area around each fitting to prevent contamination.
4. Using a manual grease gun loaded with NXB-GEN-712-004, attach to the J1 fitting.
5. Apply 8-10 pumps of grease slowly. Watch for any old grease being purged from the seals.
6. Wipe away any excess purged grease.
7. Repeat the process for axes J2 through J6, applying 5-8 pumps for each.

### Encoder Battery Replacement (Annually / 4000 Hours)

The encoder backup batteries maintain the robot's absolute position data when it is powered off. A low battery alarm on the controller indicates an immediate need for replacement.

• Procedure:

1. IMPORTANT: This procedure should ideally be performed with the robot controller powered on to avoid losing mastering data. If LOTO is required by your facility, you must be prepared to re-master the robot. Consult your safety officer.
2. Locate the battery compartment on the base of the robot arm.
3. Unscrew the sealed cover.
4. Carefully disconnect the old battery connector and remove the battery.
5. Install the new battery from the NXB-MNT-642-006 kit, ensuring the connector is fully seated.
6. Reinstall the compartment cover and tighten the screws to seal it.
7. If performed with power off, proceed to the robot mastering procedure upon power-up.

Post-Maintenance Verification

1. Remove all tools from the work cell.
2. Re-install all safety guards and panels.
3. Remove the LOTO devices and restore power to the robot controller.
4. Clear any alarms that may have occurred during maintenance.
5. From a safe distance, jog each axis of the NXB-ROB-LA013-008 at a low speed (10%) through its full range of motion.
6. Listen for unusual noises and watch for smooth, consistent movement.
7. Run a known production cycle in test mode to confirm proper operation and positioning.
8. Document the maintenance performed in your equipment log.

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