Caring for your newly rebuilt spindle

Smooth production relies on your machine’s spindle performance. Avoid spindle downtime and repairs with proper maintenance.

Use these seven simple maintenance tips to help keep your operations running smoothly.

1. Lubrication is the key to spindle performance and longevity.

To maximize the life of your spindle, keep your lubricating fluids clean and at safe operating levels – and adhere to the factory-recommended lubrication schedule. If you have an air/oil spindle, service the air-intake filters regularly.

2. Check spindle runout with a ground, calibrated spindle test bar every 6 months and/or after any crash.

Additionally, monitor your spindle’s spring force with a draw bar pull-force test. Pull force secures tool holders in the spindle. A sizable drop in force could lead to vibration and runout, which can damage your spindle and your parts.

3. Keep a constant watch on spindle vibration levels.

If your machine has built-in vibration sensing technology, don’t ignore any triggered alarms. Increased vibration typically points to worn spindle bearings, so be sure to replace them when necessary.

4. Maintain spindle-bearing lubrication

Although closed-unit spindles typically are factory lubricated for life, large spindle headstocks – such as those on big turning machines – need oil baths to lubricate their bearings. That's why it’s important to maintain the oil levels in these baths.

5. On a high-speed spindle with a cooling system, always make sure the chiller unit functions properly

A rise in chiller system output temperature usually indicates a spindle problem. If this occurs, a Mazak certified technician can check the system thoroughly.

6. Always re-install any machine covers that you remove for routine maintenance or any other reason

These covers protect the spindle, its motor and other components from contaminants that can infiltrate the machine.

7. When your spindle needs a repair or rebuild, it’s best to have the machine tool OEM perform these services

To ensure the use of factory-certified parts and repairs that meet original specifications, have your machine tool OEM perform repair or rebuild services.

Mazak offers free technical support on recommended maintenance, replacement options and processes.


Spindle Support

Your spindle is the heart of your machine tool, and if it needs service, we have the ISO certified repair/rebuild capabilities you need, with quick turnaround and thorough results.

Spindle Repair/
Rebuild Process

Our Spindle Rebuild Centre turns around repairs or rebuilds within 3-5 days, including runoff, benchmarking and a 1-year or 4,000-hour warranty.

Keep your spindles on task

Spindle Maintenance

Order a new or refurbished spindle, and your order ships the same day 95% of the time. Our parts inventory supports more than 600 spindle variations.

Receive replacement spindles fast

Spindle Repair/Rebuild Status

Once you've sent a spindle in for service, track the status of your repair or rebuild online and watch as it progresses through our process.

Track your spindle