Fives Global Services of Hebron, Ky., introduced the ProCheck, which provides a detailed report on the condition and capability of machine tools and other major factory equipment, before purchasing or using systems for manufacturing operations.

“Predictive maintenance inspections with ProCheck help avert unscheduled downtime and reduce scrap by ensuring machine tool capability before running critical parts,” said Gary Finney, vice president and general manager of Fives Global Services.

The inspection begins with a three-axis ballbar test that evaluates 11 areas, including circuitry, squareness, backlash, axis reversal spikes and straightness. Other tests include: measurement of spindle clamping force and runout; ultrasonic scanning of machinery systems for bearing vibration and noise, airleaks, pump cavitation and electrical problems; infrared thermographic inspection of bearings, motors, pumps and electrical systems; refractometer testing of coolant condition and measurement of tramp oils; and ground loop and current leakage testing of electrical systems.

ProCheck includes inspection by a trained technician. It takes less than three hours and costs $600 per machine.