Part 1 of 3

A400
Startup and Training Manual
Part 1: Safety and Maintenance

Revision 6 | English ©2021 Bend-Tech LLC

 ©2021 Bend-Tech LLC
All rights reserved. The information in this manual is subject to change without notice.
Bend-Tech LLC strives to produce the most complete and accurate information regarding
its products. We are constantly working to improve and advance our products to increase
performance, user satisfaction and experience. Bend-Tech LLC assumes no responsibility for
errors or omissions regarding this manual. Bend-Tech LLC assumes no liability for damages
resulting from the use of the information contained in this publication.

ii Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Dragon A400

Startup and Training Manual

Revision 6

English
Original Instructions

January 2021

Bend-Tech LLC
729 Prospect Ave.
Osceola, WI 54020 USA

(651) 257-8715
www.bend-tech.com
[email protected]

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual iii

 Limited Warranty
Covering Bend-Tech Dragon
Bend-Tech, LLC provides a limited warranty on all new Dragon machines that are
manufactured directly or under license by Bend-Tech, LLC, and sold by Bend-Tech, LLC or its
approved distributors.

Warranty Coverage
Each Bend-Tech Dragon machine is warrantied by the manufacturer against defects in material
workmanship for 12-months. The warranty period commences upon delivery of the Dragon
machine to the customer’s facility.

Repair or Replacement Only

The Manufacturer’s sole liability, and the Customer’s exclusive remedy under this warranty
shall be limited to repairing or replacing the defective part. Repair or replacement of parts
is at the sole discretion of the manufacturer. The Customer is responsible for warranty parts
installation. Bend-Tech does not provide warranty service labor.

Limits
This warranty does not cover components subject to wear due to normal use of the machine
such as belts, lights, tooling etc. This warranty is void if Bend-Tech, LLC has determined any
failure is the result of mishandling, abuse, misuse, improper installation, improper storage,
improper maintenance or unauthorized modification of the machine. The warranty does not
cover damage due to natural disasters, fire, flood or other external factors. The warranty may
become void or limited in the event that hardware changes or adaptations are made to the
machine.

Software
Dragon software is covered by a 2-year maintenance plan from the purchase date of the
Dragon machine. After the 2-year maintenance plan is expired, the Customer can purchase
a maintenance plan. A maintenance plan will ensure the customer always has the newest
version of Dragon software. The maintenance plan is critical to keeping Dragon software
updated with the newest capabilities possible, and is critical to the servicing of the machine.
Bend-Tech, LLC will contact the Customer regarding updates to the maintenance plan within
1-month of expiration. Contact Bend-Tech Support to ensure software is up to date: support@
bend-tech.com.

iv Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Customer Service
Any questions or concerns regarding this manual can be directed to Bend-Tech, LLC
representatives via the Dragon website, www.bend-tech.com. Click Contact in the menu bar for
communication options and send your comments to the Dragon Customer Service department.

Online Resources
• https://www.youtube.com/user/bendtech2020
• http://www.bend-tech.com/wiki7
• http://www.bend-tech.com
• https://www.facebook.com/2020ssi
• https://www.instagram.com/bend_tech

Customer Satisfaction Commitment

Congratulations on your purchase of the world’s best CNC plasma tube and pipe cutting
machine, the Bend-Tech Dragon. Bend-Tech, LLC places great pride in customer satisfaction
and it is our promise to offer you the best support available for your Dragon. We recognize that
our support is a key factor in your success.

Contact Us
Bend-Tech’s hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 5:00 EST. The Bend-Tech support
team and sales team are always available during our hours of operation.

Phone: 651-257-8715

Email: Sales team: [email protected]

Support team: [email protected]

Address: Bend-Tech, 729 Prospect Ave., Osceola, WI 54020, U.S.A..

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual v

 Warnings
This manual contains important statements that are called out from the regular text with an
associated signal word: “Danger,” “Warning,” “Caution,” or “Note.” Each of these signal words
is accompanied by its own icon. These signal words and icons indicate the severity of the
condition and the warning. The machine operator should familiarize themselves with these
warnings and read the statements before operating the machine.

Definitions & Examples

Danger
Danger indicates a serious condition that could cause severe injury or death to the operator or
bystanders if the instructions are not followed.

Example

! Danger !
Exceeding the material weight limit of the Dragon A400 can result in serious injury
to the operator and/or bystanders.

Warning
A Warning indicates there is a possibility for minor injury if the instructions are not followed
correctly.

Example

! Warning !
Due to the extreme temperatures that result from the plasma cutting process, parts
cooled in water in the parts catcher can still be extremely hot. Always use caution
when handling newly-cut parts.

vi Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Caution
Caution warns the operator that minor injury or machine damage could occur if instructions are
not followed. It could also mean that not following directions could affect the overall procedure
being performed.

Example

! Caution !
Exceeding the material weight limit can affect performance and possibly damage
the Dragon A400.

Note
A Note gives clarification or focuses on information that is critical or unique to an operation.

Example

Material coolant system greatly reduces smoke and vapor emitted by the machine.
Bend-Tech recommends use of the material coolant system whenever possible.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual vii

Glossary

Glossary
Axis Interface
A fixed reference line used by the Dragon. Any particular screen display generated
by Bend-Tech software.
Bend-Tech 7x
Machine design software - CAD. Mach3
Machine driver software.
BOB
Breakout Board. Parts Catcher
The parts catcher is placed at the front of
Material Support Lift the machine to catch parts as they are cut.
The Material Support Lift supports
material to reduce sag. Rack & Pinion
The rack and pinion gear assembly is
Chuck the method that drives the horizontal
Located on the Trolley, the Chuck movement of the Trolley.
holds the material so it can be moved
forward, backward and rotated. Rail & Beam
The Beam is the main structure of the
Control Box Dragon A400, the rails are attached to
Connects Dragon Software Suite to the Dragon. the beam and guides the Trolley.

Coolant Tray Tail

Cools cut parts as they are produced. The Tail is located at the opposite end of the
Head of the machine. The Tail arrives pre-
E-Stop assembled. The X-Axis homing sensor, rear
E-Stop are located at the Tail of the machine.
Emergency stop.
Toolhead
ESS
Operates the Marker, Engraver and Torch.
Ethernet Smooth Stepper (Control Board).
Trolley
Ethernet
The Trolley rides on the Rail, and carries
System for connecting multiple the Chuck forward and backward along
computers via a Local Area Network. the length of the Rail Support Beam.
Gate
The Gate supports the material at the
front of the machine. It consists of two
sets of self-centering roller jaws.

Gate Lead Screw

Controls operation and adjustment of the Gate.

viii Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Contents

Contents
Limited Warranty......................iv 1.4.3 Machine Operational
Movement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Customer Service..................... v 1.4.4 Material Securing. . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.5 Pinch Points. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Customer Satisfaction
Commitment............................. v 1.6 Emergency Stops (E-Stops). . . . . . . 16
1.6.1 E-Stop Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Warnings...................................vi
1.6.2 Control Screen E-Stop. . . . . . . . 17
Glossary...................................viii 1.6.3 Re-Home after an Emergency
Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Contents....................................ix 17 Electrical Servicing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.7.1 Power Down Before Servicing. . 17
01
1.8 Material Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Safety........................................ 11 1.8.1 Weight Limit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
1.1 General Safety Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 1.9 Material Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
1.2 Safety Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 1.9.1 Material Support Lift. . . . . . . . . 18
1.2.1 Personal Protective Equipment 1.10 Plasma Torch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
(PPE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.10.1 Torch Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.3 Recommended PPE for Operating
the Dragon A400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 1.10.2 Ultraviolet Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.3.1 Ultraviolet Eye Protection . . . . . 12 1.10.3 Heat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.3.2 Footwear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 1.10.4 Gloves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.3.3 Heat-Resistant Gloves. . . . . . . . 13 1.10.5 Fumes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
1.3.4 General Eye Protection. . . . . . . 13 1.11 Modifications To The Machine . . . . . 20
1.3.5 Hearing Protection. . . . . . . . . . . 13 1.11.1 Unauthorized Modifications. . . 20
1.3.6 Breather Mask or Ventilation 1.11.2 Factory Parts Kits and
System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
1.4 Operational Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 1.12 Other Safety Information . . . . . . . . . 21
1.4.1 Guards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.4.2 Machine Walkthrough . . . . . . . . 14

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual ix

Contents

1.13 More Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 2.5.1 Clean Coolant Screens. . . . . . . 26

1.14 Recommended Safety Guidelines. . 21 2.5.2 Grease Pillow Block Bearings. . 26
2.5.3 Comprehensive Cleaning . . . . . 26
02 2.5.4 Actuators and Lead Screws. . . . 26

Maintenance............................. 23 2.6 Bi-Annually or 1000 Hours. . . . . . . . . 26

2.1 Dragon A400 Maintenance 2.6.1 Clean the Chuck . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.6.2 Check Level and Straightness. . 26
2.2 Daily Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.7 Annually or 2000 Hours. . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.2.1 Clean the Gate. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.7.1 Check Rack Spacing. . . . . . . . . 27
2.2.2 Clean the Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.2.3 Clean the Rack . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.2.4 Check the Coolant Level. . . . . . 24
2.2.5 Clear the Part Catcher. . . . . . . . 24
2.2.6 Check the Air Pressure . . . . . . . 24
2.2.7 Clean the Work Area. . . . . . . . . 24
2.2.8 Check the Plasma System. . . . 24
2.3 Weekly or Every 40 Hours. . . . . . . . . 24
2.3.1 Clean Grease and Oil Buildup. . 24
2.3.2 Check Electronic Connections. . 25
2.3.3 Clean Chuck and Trolley. . . . . . 25
2.3.4 Lubricate the Gear Rack. . . . . . 25
2.4 Monthly or 150 Hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
2.4.1 Check the Fasteners. . . . . . . . . 25
2.4.2 Clean and Fill the Material
Cooling System Reservoir . . . . . . . . . 25
2.4.3 Check the Eccentric Bearings. . 25
2.4.4 Check the Emergency Stops. . . 25
2.4.5 Clean and Lubricate the Racks. 25
2.4.6 Check Backlash. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
2.5 Quarterly or 500 Hours. . . . . . . . . . . 26

x Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 01
Safety 01

Safety

1.1 General Safety Notes

Read all warnings, cautions and instructions before operating the Dragon machine.

Each company has different procedures. Always act in accordance with Environmental Health
& Safety (EHS) standards set in place regarding the facility in which the Dragon A400 is being
operated.

Follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of injury or mechanical damage. CNC
metal working machines such as the Bend-Tech Dragon machines introduce hazards to
the workplace. It is the responsibility of the Operator to take appropriate safety measures
regarding the potential hazards of this machine, and not the responsibility of Bend-Tech, LLC.

Maintaining a clean machine is important during normal use as well as prior to and after
servicing the machine. Cleaning procedures may require Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
beyond the scope of daily operation procedures of the machine.

Read the Startup and Training manual in its entirety to ensure safe and efficient operation of
the Dragon A400 machine.

This manual is a reference guide for the Dragon A400 and is not a comprehensive source of
operating or training information. A complete training course and support can be requested
from Bend-Tech, LLC, www.bend-tech.com.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 11

01 Safety

! Caution !
The Dragon A400 should only be operated by authorized and trained personnel. The
Operator should always act in accordance with the Dragon A400 Startup and Training
safety procedures and machine instructions for safe operation of this machine. Failure to
follow these guidelines may pose a hazard to personnel and the machine.

1.2 Safety Procedures

1.2.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Metalworking and metalworking operations can be dangerous. Using the proper PPE is
important to avoid injuries that can result from sparks, heat, noise, smoke and vapor, dropped
objects, and ultraviolet light. Consult local safety codes before operating the machine. Before
working on or near the machine, it is important to read this manual and fully understand the
safe operation of the machine. Contact Bend-Tech with any questions or concerns regarding
the safe operation of the Dragon A400.

1.3 Recommended PPE for Operating the Dragon A400

1.3.1 Ultraviolet Eye Protection
Safety glasses with the proper shade based on the amperage of the Torch are required for
operation of the machine. It is important the operator and anyone observing the machine wear
welder’s glasses or a welder’s mask, or the machine be surrounded by a welding curtain.
Refer to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards to determine proper
safety glass shading and/or welding curtain for the cutting torch amperage being used.

! Danger !
The cutting torch emits ultraviolet light. Looking directly at the plasma stream can
damage human retinas.

12 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Safety 01

1.3.2 Footwear
The Dragon A400 is a metal working machine and metal materials can be extremely heavy. A
piece of dropped material could cause injury to the operator or observers. Also, the Torch emits
sparks and possibly hot torch slag. It is highly recommended that the operator wear safety
shoes or boots while operating the Dragon A400.

1.3.3 Heat-Resistant Gloves

Parts produced by the Dragon will be extremely hot and could cause severe burns if not
handled properly. It is recommended that the operator wear heat-resistant gloves when
handling parts produced by the Dragon A400.

! Warning !
Due to the extreme temperatures that result from the plasma cutting process, parts
cooled in water in the parts catcher can still be extremely hot. Always use caution
when handling newly-cut parts.

1.3.4 General Eye Protection

The Dragon A400 will emit sparks, plasma dust and slag during operation. Anyone operating or
observing the machine should wear the appropriate eye protection.

1.3.5 Hearing Protection

While the Dragon A400 is relatively quiet, it is recommended that the operator wear hearing
protection as specified per the facility safety requirements.

1.3.6 Breather Mask or Ventilation System

Plasma dust and debris is toxic, and inhalation can cause respiratory difficulties or other
complications. It is recommended that the operator and any observers wear a breathing mask,
or that the shop be equipped with an effective ventilation system for safe operation of the
Dragon A400.

The Dragon A400 Material Coolant System greatly reduces smoke and vapor
emitted by the machine. Bend-Tech recommends use of the Material Coolant System
whenever possible. The Coolant System is especially effective when working with
aluminum or stainless steel.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 13

01 Safety

1.4 Operational Safety

1.4.1 Guards
Do not operate the machine without safety guards in place.

1.4.2 Machine Walkthrough

Perform an inspection walkthrough of the machine before each startup, making sure all
electrical cords and cables that function as part of moving assemblies are secure and
fastened. Ensure all tools are fastened securely. Ensure all E-stop switches are disengaged.

1.4.3 Machine Operational Movement

While a program is running, the Trolley and Toolhead can move rapidly at any time through its
short/long travel feed rate procedures. The operator and bystanders should stay clear of the
Trolley and Toolhead during machine operation.

! Warning !
The Trolley,Toolhead, and Gate are pinch points. Stay clear during machine
operation.

1.4.4 Material Securing

Ensure that any material loaded into the machine is securely fastened in the Chuck and is
snug in the Gate.

! Warning !
Improperly secured material may cause injury.

14 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Safety 01
1.5 Pinch Points
Use caution in the area of pinch points. There are many pinch point locations identified on the
Dragon A400 including the Gate assembly, Toolhead, Trolley and Material Support Lift. It is
advised to use caution in these areas and stay clear of them during machine operation.

Where the Trolley

contacts the rear bumper
Chuck
movement

Material Support
Lift movement

Toolhead
movement

Where the Trolley

contacts the Rail

Front Gate
movement

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 15

01 Safety

1.6 Emergency Stops (E-Stops)

1.6.1 E-Stop Overview
There are four external emergency stop (E-Stop) buttons located on the Dragon A400
machine. There is one E-Stop on the Tail of the machine, one on the Trolley cover, and one on
each side of the Gate. These four emergency stops completely shut power off to all motors and
outputs. To re-enable the machine after pressing an E-Stop, the E-Stop must be disengaged
and power to the motors must be initialized by pressing the green light on the Control Box. If
the green light doesn’t initialize, this is an indicator that an E-Stop is still engaged. The green
light indicates the motors have power.

E-Stop
Locations

16 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Safety 01
1.6.2 Control Screen E-Stop
There is an additional emergency stop located on the machine control screen. This E-Stop
does not cut power to any motors or outputs, but will temporarily disable any software that
is being used. This will stop any project that is being run, without disconnecting power to the
motors.

1.6.3 Re-Home after an Emergency Stop

When an E-Stop is engaged, the machine will need to be re-homed after the E-Stop is cleared
and disengaged.

17 Electrical Servicing
1.7.1 Power Down Before Servicing
Completely power off the Control Box before handling any electrical components. Electrical
components include all motor connections, motor cables, sensors, sensor cables, emergency
stops, laser cable, and Torch cable.

! Danger !
Do not touch 120VAC components inside the Control Box without first disconnecting
the machine from its power source.

! Warning !

Never disconnect a Motor Cable with power applied.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 17

01 Safety

1.8 Material Weight

1.8.1 Weight Limit

Material weight limit for the Dragon A400 should not exceed 400 lbs. This is the maximum
weight of material the Trolley can support while still operating safely.

! Danger !
Exceeding the material weight limit of the Dragon A400 can result in serious injury
to the Operator and/or bystanders.

! Caution !
Exceeding the material weight limit can affect performance and possibly damage
the Dragon A400.

1.9 Material Length

1.9.1 Material Support Lift

Some non-rigid materials, or excessively long materials, can sag and cause material to raise
at the Toolhead. This introduces the danger of material contacting the Torch or damaging
the Engraver. Material longer than 10 ft. or thinner material may need to be supported by the
Material Support Lift in order to avoid contacting the Torch or damaging the Engraver.

18 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Safety 01
1.10 Plasma Torch
1.10.1 Torch Overview
The Torch and plasma cutting device is a high-voltage system that requires extreme caution
when operating. It is recommended that the operator read the Hypertherm manual and become
familiar with the hazards of working with the machine before operating it in conjunction with the
Dragon.

1.10.2 Ultraviolet Light

The Torch emits extreme ultraviolet light which can damage human retinas. Never look directly
at the torch arc without the appropriate eye protection.

The minimum ANSI eye protection recommendations:

• Less than 40 amps - shade 5

• 41 to 60 amps - shade 6
• 61 to 300 amps - shade 8

1.10.3 Heat
The Torch will introduce extreme heat into the material during the cutting process. The
Operator should take caution handling newly-cut parts. Always wear heat resistant gloves
when handling parts after cutting.

! Danger !
The plasma arc of the Torch can cause severe injury or even death. Never
approach the Torch while it is activated and operating.

1.10.4 Gloves
Always wear insulated gloves when handling Torch consumables. Consumables get extremely
hot during Torch operation. Touching Torch consumables can result in electric shock if the
Torch is not disabled before handling.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 19

01 Safety

1.10.5 Fumes
Some metals, including stainless steel, can emit toxic fumes when cut. Bend-Tech
recommends using a ventilation system with the Dragon A400 or ensure the facility has
adequate ventilation to ensure air quality meets standards and regulations.

! Danger !
Servicing the plasma unit with power connected can result in electric shock which
can lead to severe injury or death. Disconnect power before servicing the torch or
plasma unit.

! Danger !
Do not use combustible fuel gases or oxidizing gases in the plasma cutting process.
Use of these types of gases can result in explosive conditions during cutting
operations.

1.11 Modifications To The Machine

1.11.1 Unauthorized Modifications
Performing unauthorized modifications to the Dragon A400 is not recommended. Bend-Tech,
LLC is not responsible for damage resulting from modifications to the Dragon A400.

Unauthorized modifications include modifications to the machine’s G-code that alter the factory
settings and adversely affect the operation of the machine.

1.11.2 Factory Parts Kits and Updates

Some parts kits and update packages are manufactured and sold by Bend-Tech, LLC.
Customers may choose to install these kits and updates themselves. However, the Customer
should have a thorough understanding of the machine and the service actions being
performed. If a Customer has any doubts regarding their ability to install parts kits or update
packages contact Bend-Tech for assistance.

20 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Safety 01

! Caution !
Bend-Tech does not recommend unauthorized modifications to the Dragon A400.
Contact Bend-Tech service representatives with any questions regarding operation
or capabilities of the machine.

1.12 Other Safety Information

The Dragon A400 may have subassemblies supplied with independent warnings. It is the
Operator’s responsibility to familiarize themselves with all possible hazards of the machine.

1.13 More Information

Bend-Tech is continuously updating information regarding the Dragon A400. Users can see
updated and supplemental information online at www.bend-tech.com or talk to a technical
representative directly by calling 651-257-8715.

1.14 Recommended Safety Guidelines

• Keep unauthorized personnel away from the Dragon A400 work area.
• Keep the work area clean and free of debris.
• Stay clear of the machine and any moving parts during machine operation.
• Stay clear of the Toolhead during operation.
• Never operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Wear appropriate PPE at all times while operating the machine.
• Keep flammables away from the machine during operation.
• Risk of electric shock - avoid touching exposed wires while the machine is powered.
• Always power off the machine and disconnect from main power source before servicing
electrical components.
• Do not exceed the machine’s capacities.
• Do not wear loose-fitting clothing or jewelry while operating the machine.
• Be aware of sharp edges on cut material.
• Avoid handling hot parts.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 21

01 Safety

22 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 02
Maintenance 02

Maintenance

2.1 Dragon A400 Maintenance Overview

In order to keep the Dragon A400 running at peak performance, it is important to follow
the maintenance schedule. Following this maintenance schedule will help maximize the
machine’s long-term welfare and avoid down time. The plasma cutting process produces dust,
slag, smoke and other contaminants that can build up on Dragon A400 components. If not
maintained, these contaminants can affect the performance of the machine.

The Dragon A400 is a machine which relies on mechanical components to perform its
operations. As with any machine, these components can wear out over time. Maintaining them
is key to maximizing the service life of the machine.

2.2 Daily Maintenance

The Dragon A400 requires specific daily maintenance in order to continue to function like
new. The Operator should set up a Daily Maintenance checklist that includes all of the points
outlined in this section.

2.2.1 Clean the Gate

The Gate will see an extreme amount of plasma dust buildup under regular use. There are
many precision moving parts in the Gate and keeping it clean is critical. Use compressed air to
blow dust and debris from the rollers, bearings and other components. Gate rollers should not
be lubricated. If they are kept clean they should work as designed.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 23

02 Maintenance

2.2.2 Clean the Support Beam

Clean the support beam using compressed air to blow any dirt or debris that may have
accumulated. After blowing off the support beam, clean the rails by wiping them down with a
clean rag.

2.2.3 Clean the Rack

Check the Rack for debris buildup and clean with compressed air. If the compressed air
strips the lubricant from the Racks, re-lubricate them with WD40 Specialist Spray & Stay Gel
Lubricant.

2.2.4 Check the Coolant Level

For Dragon machines equipped with a Material Cooling System, verify that the level of coolant
is adequate. Coolant can be clean water or other coolants, such as anti-rust solutions.

2.2.5 Clear the Part Catcher

Remove any loose parts from the Parts Catcher. Clean the Parts Catcher of slag and debris. If
necessary, add water to the Parts Catcher.

2.2.6 Check the Air Pressure

Check the air pressure at the air inlet on the Control Box. Pressure should be within the
recommended 100-130 psi range.

2.2.7 Clean the Work Area

It is important to keep the work area surrounding the Dragon A400 clean and free from dust
and safety hazards. Sweep the work area regularly and remove any debris that may be around
the machine.

2.2.8 Check the Plasma System

Refer to your plasma system maintenance guide regarding scheduled maintenance and
procedures.

2.3 Weekly or Every 40 Hours

Each week or 40-hours of runtime, the Dragon will require additional maintenance from the
Operator. Maintenance in this section should be combined with maintenance outlined in
section 2.2: Daily Maintanence.

2.3.1 Clean Grease and Oil Buildup

Wipe off any excess grease, oil or grime that may have accumulated on the machine.

24 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Maintenance 02

2.3.2 Check Electronic Connections

Inspect all electrical connections. Perform this inspection with the machine powered off, and
disconnected from power sources. Ensure all electrical connections are hand tight and in good
working order.

2.3.3 Clean Chuck and Trolley

With a clean rag, clean the Chuck and Trolley of the machine.

2.3.4 Lubricate the Gear Rack

Clean and lubricate the Gear Rack with WD40 Specialist Spray & Stay Gel Lubricant.

2.4 Monthly or 150 Hours

Monthly maintenance should be performed each month or after 150-hours of service time.
Scheduled monthly maintenance should include all previous maintenance procedures outlined.

2.4.1 Check the Fasteners

Perform a comprehensive check of the machine verifying that all fasteners are present
and secure. Ensure all fasteners are appropriately tightened. Replace missing or damaged
fasteners.

2.4.2 Clean and Fill the Material Cooling System Reservoir

For machines equipped with a Material Cooling System, drain and refill the system to the
proper level. Fill the reservoir with clean coolants.

2.4.3 Check the Eccentric Bearings

Verify the eccentric bearings on the Trolley and the Gate are adjusted properly. Ensure that the
eccentric bearings roll smoothly and there is no play.

2.4.4 Check the Emergency Stops

Inspect the E-Stop buttons for loose wire connections and proper operation. Check that each
E-Stop is functioning correctly. When an E-Stop is triggered the green power light will turn off.

2.4.5 Clean and Lubricate the Racks

Clean the Gear Racks and re-lubricate with WD40 Specialist Spray & Stay Gel Lubricant.

2.4.6 Check Backlash

Check backlash in X Axis. Adjust if necessary.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 25

02 Maintenance

2.5 Quarterly or 500 Hours

Quarterly maintenance should take place every three months or after 500-hours of operation.
Quarterly maintenance should include all previous maintenance procedures outlined.

2.5.1 Clean Coolant Screens

For machines equipped with a Material Cooling System, inspect and clean the system screens.

2.5.2 Grease Pillow Block Bearings

Reapply grease to the pillow block bearings on the Trolley. Bend-Tech recommends hi-temp
red lithium grease, NLG12.

2.5.3 Comprehensive Cleaning

Clean entire machine.

2.5.4 Actuators and Lead Screws

Grease actuators and Gate Lead Screws. Apply light coating of NLG12 grease. Ensure
Actuators and Lead Screws are clean before applying grease.

2.6 Bi-Annually or 1000 Hours

Bi-annual maintenance should take place every six months or after 1000 hours of operation.
Bi-annual maintenance should include all previous maintenance procedures outlined.

2.6.1 Clean the Chuck

Remove the Chuck, disassemble jaws and clean. Ensure the teeth are reinstalled in the proper
location and in the proper order.

2.6.2 Check Level and Straightness

Check to ensure the Rail is level and adjust as necessary. Check the Rail for straightness
using the string provided with the machine. See Startup and Training Manual Part 2 section
1.2.3.

26 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Maintenance 02

2.7 Annually or 2000 Hours

Annual maintenance should take place each year or after 2000 hours of operation. An annual
or 2000 hour maintenance procedure centers around checking the backlash in the drive motors
and gears. It should also include all previous maintenance procedures outlined.

2.7.1 Check Rack Spacing

Check the Rack spacing. Adjust if necessary.

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 27

02 Maintenance

28 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Maintenance 02

Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Startup and Training Manual 29

02 Maintenance

30 Startup and Training Manual Bend-Tech Dragon A400

 Attention
After completing Startup and Training
Manual Part 1, please proceed to Startup
and Training Manual Part 2.
Bend-Tech, LLC

729 Prospect Ave. Osceola, WI 54020

1-651-257-8715

[email protected]
www.bend-tech.com