Periodically routine maintenance and cleaning will need to be performed to ADSI cutters to run at optimal performance. Here is recommended per the iTech Cutters manual.
The regularity with which the cutter needs to be cleaned is dependent on the usage, as well as the climate and contaminants in the cutter’s environment. It is recommended that the following cleaning steps be done at least as often as indicated for each procedure:
1. Biweekly. Clean the three grit wheel surfaces with a stiff bristled e.g. tooth (not wire) brush to remove any media particles that may have built up during cutting. Brush the surface of the grit wheel while turning the grit wheel by hand so the entire surface of the grit wheel is cleaned. CAUTION: Be sure to disconnect the cutter from the power source while cleaning the unit. Keeping the grit wheel clean is important so the cutter will hold the media accurately.
2. Biweekly. Wipe media-related dust from the set of polyurethane pinch wheels by using a soft cloth.
3. Monthly. The outer surfaces should also be kept clean. If necessary, a mild cleaning solution on a damp cloth can be used to gently wipe the surfaces clean. It is suggested that a mild soap and water be used with a soft cloth. This solution works well on all painted surfaces. CAUTION: Do not use any abrasive cleaners, as they will cause the paint to blister.
4. Yearly. Inspect the internal circuit board assemblies and clean accumulated dust as necessary. Be certain that the cutter power is off. Observe static discharge safety procedures that may damage sensitive electronic components. Wear a grounding strap 20 connected to earth ground. Wear safety glasses to protect eyes. Remove front and side covers and use compressed air to remove dust and debris. Replace cover to original location and make certain that that any connectors are well seated. Pinch Wheel Maintenance Pinch wheels are critical to the i-TECH unit's material handling performance. They should be inspected for wear regularly and cleaned as needed. To clean adhesive off the pinch wheels, simply use a soft cloth and denatured alcohol. In normal use, the pinch wheels will need to be replaced in time. Also, trying to move them when they are in the down position can damage them. If material does not track well and guide alignment has been verified, the pinch wheels may need to be replaced.
For best tracking results, replacement pinch wheels should be replaced as a SET. To check condition of pinch wheels: 1) Inspect condition of rubber The rubber wheel should not have any cracks and should be securely adhered to the aluminum hub of the wheel. The transition from the flat surface of the wheel to the "sidewall" edges of the wheel should be sharp and not rounded. 2) Inspect integrity of pinch wheel bearing This is done by having the pinch wheels in the up position. Spin wheel with finger and observe whether the bearing has a dry sound or not. If it appears to be dry, the wheels should be replaced.