Following the below maintenance schedule ensures the longevity and function of your SMW Fixture Plate. We recommend any workholding device (fixture plate, vise, 4th axis rotary, etc.) be periodically removed and cleaned. This interval depends on personal preference, frequency of use, types of material being cut, coolant and more but generally should be inspected every 3-12 months. Daily Clear any chips and coolant from the plate at the end of the day. If in a rust-prone environment, reapply your preventative of choice when the machine is no longer in use. Monthly Inspect your plate for dings, scratches, and other damage and stone any burrs or high spots. Ensure no coolant is trapped beneath any frequently removed fixture plate plugs. Inspect installed workholding devices (e.g. Mod Vises, fixture pallets, etc.), remove, clean, and reapply corrosion inhibitor as needed. Every 3 Months Bare Aluminum Plates: if mounted on a non-aluminum surface (i.e. a machine table) inspect the plate and remove, clean, and reapply galvanic corrosion inhibitor as-needed. This is especially important when liquid coolant is in use. The same is true for steel workholding devices, such as a machine vise, mounted on top of the plate. Annually We recommend a thorough removal, cleaning, and reapplication of any corrosion inhibitor to both the fixture plate and your machine table at least once per year. You can read our article on machine shop rust prevention here.
