Common CNC Lathe Faults: Troubleshooting Tips for Beginners

Mechanical Issues

• Symptoms: Abnormal noise, axis jamming, excessive vibration, inconsistent machining dimensions
• Possible Causes: Machine impact, bearing wear, insufficient lubrication, debris on guideways
• Recommended Actions: Inspect mechanical alignment, check lubrication system, ensure smooth guideway motion, identify noise source

Electrical Issues

• Symptoms: Machine not responding (tool changer or chuck), button malfunction, MPG error, power interruptions
• Possible Causes: Relay failure, blown fuses, unstable power supply, wiring issues, control board damage
• Recommended Actions: Regularly replace relays, verify stable voltage, check connections and fuses, review alarm history

Controller Problems

• Symptoms: Controller low battery, spindle won’t start, turret won’t index, interrupted machining
• Possible Causes: Low battery, incorrect parameter settings, I/O communication loss, software errors
• Recommended Actions: Replace controller battery, check wiring, restore backed-up parameters

Human or Logic Errors

• Symptoms: Tool collisions, large dimensional deviation, unexpected movements
• Possible Causes: G/M code errors, missing tool offsets, incorrect work origin setting
• Recommended Actions: Review G-code logic, re-set tool offsets, simulate program before actual run

Force One Recommendations

Force One recommends that operators create a simple troubleshooting log to track each incident. The log should include:

• Time of occurrence
• Machining conditions
• Symptoms and observations
• Resolution method
• Use the CNC controller’s built-in alarm history feature to quickly locate the issue and determine its category (mechanical, electrical, etc.)
• When contacting Force One or authorized distributors, always provide the machine model and serial number. Communication should be made via email to streamline the support and documentation process.