HARDWARE
HCA
Balanced Ram Removal and Replacement
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A step by step guide to removing and replacing a GDS HCA Balanced ram. |
Introduction
The machine should be set in the middle of its travel or higher to ensure the ram can be removed efficiently.
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For safety reasons, first make sure your machine is switched off and that all connections to mains electricity are removed. |
Removing the Balanced Ram
To drain the HCA Balanced ram, place a suitable container underneath the lower fitting, highlighted in the image. Remove the cap from the fitting and wait for the water to stop flowing.
Remove the leak detection pipe from the upper fitting by pushing the black outer collar and pulling the pipe.
Remove both the upper and lower fittings from the balanced ram.
Remove the 6 screws highlighted in the image to separate the balanced ram from the lower ball screw assembly.
Remove the inner and outer sets of screws on the upper seal plate.
Once removed the balanced ram will be free to move on both ends so care must be taken. It is noted that holding the ram will reduce excess movement and rocking.
Slide the seal plate up the ram and remove from the system. Place to one side taking care not to loose any of the screws.
Once the seal plate is removed there will be six O-rings under each bolt. Take care not to loose any at this stage. If you are servicing the ram a seal kit will contain replacement O-rings for this location.
As the machine has been set to the middle position or higher, use of the lower pulleys means the balanced ram can be lowered down. Move the belts so that the balanced ram moves downwards. Keep moving the ram downwards until the lower block gets close to the middle pulley, as shown in the highlighted photo.
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Careful operation must be adhered to at this point to avoid trapping of fingers between the belt and pulley. Slow and small movements are sufficient. |
Once the ram is in the lower position. Lift the ram by hand to separate from the lower block.
Lower the ram back down and at an angle to remove the ram from the system.
This may take a few up and down movements to get into the correct position to ensure the ram will clear all of the components at the correct angle. If you feel more space is required the ram can be pushed further through the cylinder.
If the ram will not clear the lower support plate under any circumstance then the side screws can be removed to angle the support plate and allow the ram to be removed.
Replacing the Balanced Ram
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At each stage where an O-ring is used, ensure that it is cleaned, greased using silicone grease and located correctly into the appropriate location. Leaks will occur if the O-rings are not replaced and located correctly. |
To replace the Balanced Ram proceed to follow the previous steps in reverse order.
Once the Balanced Ram is refitted it is best to manually move the ram up and down using the lower belt and pulley system. Gently move the ram up and down checking for any added resistance in certain locations along the travel of the ram. If excess friction is noted then a misalignment may have occurred during re-assembly. If a complete seal and O-ring replacement has been undertaken then the internal seals may be incorrectly installed, creating friction at these certain points. Further investigation or removal of the ram should be undertaken to resolve the issue before the machine is used, to avoid any damage to the components.
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Failure to check for and correct any excess friction can cause series damage to the Balanced Ram. |
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