It all depends on the robot model, but it is usually around 1 year and half.
The procedure for greasing robots doesn't change much, but the recommended angles for every grease inlet is different between models. So it's better to follow a Maintenance Manual for the desired robot. Also the type of grease varies, so you really need the manual or someone with the knowledge for a correct maintenance.
As for a detailed explanation on how it is done:
- Before starting the maintenance, do a full backup (All of Above and Image).
- We always replace robot batteries and controller with the robot completly energized (not recommended by Fanuc, but we do think it is safer this way to don't lose information).
- After replacing the batteries, we do a backup, All of Above backup and Image backup.
- We move the robot's axis in a easy to reach way (depending on the cell) and also trying to follow the manual as much as possible.
- Then we remove the outlet bolts, when we don't have the correct tools, we put something like a transparent plastic bag and tape around the outlet for all the grease that will be coming out (also the transparent bag is to check on the grease color).
- Use your grease fitting on the inlet and start pumping, it may take a few to start seeing the grease on the outlet, whenever it starts looking clean you stop pumping.
- After you are done greasing all inlets, do not put the bolts back to the outlets, do a small routine which moves all robot's axis atleast 60°, this is to let the air trapped inside to go out, after running the routing for around 5 minutes, you can put the bolts on the outlets back without problem.
- As for bearing greasing, we use a syring on the small inlets, and just keep inserting until it throws it back.
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It is a very raw explanation, but atleast you can get an idea how it is usually done.