Omtech USB475a User Manual page 41

5. Maintenance
5.1 Maintenance Overview
The use of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous laser radiation exposure.
Before any cleaning or maintenance work, always switch off the device and disconnect it from its power supply.
Always keep the system clean, as flammable debris in the working and exhaust areas constitutes a fire hazard.
ONLY allow trained and skilled professionals to modify or disassemble this device.
• Clean and cool water must be provided to the system at all times.
• The working table must be cleaned and the waste bin emptied on a daily basis.
• The 3rd mirror and the focus lens must be checked every day and cleaned if required.
• The other mirrors, exhaust system, and air intake filter must be checked every week and cleaned if required.
• The beam alignment should be checked weekly.
• The wiring should be checked every week for loose connections, especially the wiring for the laser tube power supply.
• The guide rails should be cleaned and lubricated at least twice a month.
• The air assist must be checked every month and cleaned if required.
• The whole laser machine including the other components such as the water cooling system must be checked every
month and cleaned where required.
5.2 Water Cooling System
NEVER touch or adjust your engraver's water supply while the pump is still connected to its power supply.
The laser tube requires cool and clean distilled water to avoid overheating. Tepid water at room temperature or a little
below is ideal. The laser tube requires at least 7.5 litres (1.6 gal.) of cool and clean distilled water to avoid overheating. If
the temperature of the water ever approaches 24°C (75°F), discontinue work until it has cooled or find a way to reduce its
temperature without interrupting the supply of water to the laser tube. The water should never be allowed to become too
cold either, which could also cause the glass laser tube to shatter during use. During winter or if ice is used to cool hot
water, ensure the temperature never falls below 10°C (50°F).
More water should be added every few days to ensure evaporation does not cause the pump to become exposed during use.
5.3 Cleaning
5.3.1 Cleaning the Water System
NEVER touch or adjust your engraver's water supply while the pump is still connected to its power supply.
The water tank should be shielded from ambient dust created during work. If the water ever becomes visibly dirty,
discontinue work. The debris in the water will reduce its cooling efficiency, can heat up itself, and can damage the
cooling pipes. Change the water, place the water outlet tube into a separate bucket, and run the cooling system until all
contaminated water has been flushed from the engraver. Clean the water tank itself before refilling it with clean and cool
distilled water, replacing the outlet tube, and continuing operation.
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