Aluminium Extrusion Press Maintenance Checklist

Extrusion Press Maintenance Checklist

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Aluminium Extrusion Press Maintenance Checklist

Published by: ALUTimes | Date: July 21, 2025

Table of Contents

Introduction

Extrusion presses are the lifeline of aluminium profile production. To maintain optimal performance and avoid unexpected downtime, a strict maintenance checklist is essential. This guide provides detailed steps to ensure your extrusion press operates smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

Why Maintenance Is Critical

Routine maintenance helps:

  • Prevent unscheduled breakdowns
  • Extend equipment life
  • Ensure worker safety
  • Maintain extrusion quality and dimensional accuracy

Daily Checks

  • Visual inspection for oil or hydraulic fluid leaks
  • Check ram alignment and pressure gauges
  • Inspect billet loader for smooth operation
  • Clean debris from the press area
  • Verify die alignment and fastening

Weekly Maintenance Tasks

  • Check hydraulic fluid levels and refill if necessary
  • Inspect hose fittings and valve integrity
  • Clean and inspect cooling systems
  • Lubricate moving parts as per schedule

Monthly and Quarterly Tasks

In-depth tasks include:

  • Hydraulic system pressure tests
  • Check and clean hydraulic filters
  • Calibrate sensors and gauges
  • Review operator logs and downtime patterns

Lubrication Schedule

Follow OEM specifications for lubrication frequency. Over-lubrication can cause contamination, while under-lubrication leads to wear and tear.

  • Ram guides: Daily
  • Press platen: Weekly
  • Bearing assemblies: Monthly

Safety Measures During Maintenance

  • Lockout/Tagout procedures must be followed
  • Use of PPE like gloves, goggles, helmets
  • Training on high-pressure hydraulic risks
  • Emergency shutdown drills every quarter

Operator Training

Skilled operators are the first line of defense. Regular training updates should cover:

  • Control panel usage
  • Emergency procedures
  • Basic troubleshooting
  • Daily inspection checklist adherence

Maintenance Record Keeping

Always document each maintenance task:

  • Date, time, and technician name
  • Components checked and findings
  • Parts replaced or adjusted
  • Downtime if any

This helps in identifying failure patterns and scheduling predictive maintenance.

Predictive Maintenance with Sensors

Smart extrusion presses now include sensors that collect data on vibration, oil viscosity, and operating temperatures. AI and ML tools analyze this to predict failures before they happen—saving time and cost.

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Hydraulic leaks: Replace seals and tighten fittings
  • Die misalignment: Recalibrate die holder
  • Ram movement issues: Inspect guideways and servo controls
  • Overheating: Clean cooling circuits and check fluid levels

Conclusion

Proactive maintenance is the cornerstone of a productive aluminium extrusion operation. By implementing a structured checklist and integrating smart technologies, manufacturers can ensure safety, uptime, and product consistency. Empower your team with the right knowledge and tools to maintain your press like a pro.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always follow your press manufacturer’s specific maintenance recommendations and safety protocols.

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