Maintaining the Parallel Plate Bearings

Overview

Periodically verify and replace the parallel plate bearings in accordance with the maintenance schedule.

Small amounts of grease at the ball bearings do not constitute damage. Carefully remove deposits at the bearing seals using a lint-free cloth.

NOTICE
	DAMAGED BEARINGS Use a lint-free cloth for cleaning. Do not clean dry deposits using compressed air. Do not use solvents such as trichloroethylene, tetrachloromethane, or hydrocarbons nor sharp-edged objects, emery cloth, or emery paper. Minimize the mechanical impacts when cleaning. Failure to follow these instructions can result in equipment damage.

Verifying the Wear of the Parallel Plate Bearings

Step	Action
1	NOTE: Do not remove the robot arm for this verification. Move both upper arms in a horizontal position.
2	Verify the bearings for backlash by pushing, pulling and tilting the parallel plate (apply about 10 N (2.25 lbf) in the middle of the parallel plate). NOTE: When testing, differentiate between the real backlash of the system as opposed to the resistance of the components to movement.
3	Replace the parallel plate bearings if the noticed backlash exceeds the needs of your application. For further information, refer to Replacing the Parallel Plate Bearings.

Step

Action

NOTE: Do not remove the robot arm for this verification.

Move both upper arms in a horizontal position.

Verify the bearings for backlash by pushing, pulling and tilting the parallel plate (apply about 10 N (2.25 lbf) in the middle of the parallel plate).

NOTE: When testing, differentiate between the real backlash of the system as opposed to the resistance of the components to movement.

Replace the parallel plate bearings if the noticed backlash exceeds the needs of your application.

For further information, refer to Replacing the Parallel Plate Bearings.