TL;DR

Slow ram speed on the Aida NC1 usually means worn hydraulic pump output or a pressure relief set too low. Measure pump flow and compare to spec before assuming any single cause.

What you might see

ram descends slower than programmed
cycle time longer than baseline
hydraulic pressure gauge reads low
pump noise elevated under load

Likely causes

Tap to mark as ruled out

Worn hydraulic pump producing low flow at rated speed
Relief valve pressure setting drifted below specification
Clogged hydraulic filter restricting supply flow
Internal valve spool wear causing bypass and flow loss

Required tools

Calibrated hydraulic flow meter
Hydraulic pressure gauge
LOTO kit
Die block (press-specific)
Replacement hydraulic filter element
Torque wrench

Safety first

Always insert the die block and engage the Emergency Stop before working inside the press stroke area. Stored mechanical energy in the flywheel can cause an unexpected stroke.
Bleed hydraulic pressure to zero before opening any hydraulic fitting or port. Hydraulic injection injuries are life-threatening.
Lock out and tag out both the electrical main disconnect and the hydraulic pressure isolation valve before performing any maintenance.

Procedure

9 steps · ~60 min

1
Press the Emergency Stop and engage the die block before entering the press work area.
2
Lock out and tag out the main power disconnect and the hydraulic pressure source.
3
Check the hydraulic reservoir fluid level. Low fluid causes pump cavitation and reduced flow.
4
Inspect the hydraulic filter element condition indicator. Replace the filter if the indicator shows restriction.[1]
5
With the system de-energized and pressure bled, remove the pump outlet gauge port plug and install a calibrated flow meter.
6
Re-energize under controlled conditions and measure pump output flow at rated speed. Compare to Aida NC1 spec.[1]
7
If pump flow is more than 10% below spec, schedule pump replacement. Worn pump internals cannot be field-repaired.
8
Check the main relief valve setting with a pressure gauge. Adjust to the Aida-specified pressure only if measured pressure is out of range.
9
Replace hydraulic fluid and filter after any pump or valve work, metallic debris from worn components contaminates the system.

Sources

Aida NC1 Mechanical Servo Press Operation Manual, Aida Engineering
Aida NC1 Mechanical Press Operation Manual, hydraulic system maintenance procedures (general)
View source

More guides for Aida NC1

How to diagnose clutch and brake slipping on an Aida NC1 mechanical press

Clutch or brake slip on the Aida NC1 is a safety-critical condition. Stop production immediately and check air pressure and friction disc thickness before restarting.

~90 min9 steps

How to diagnose crankshaft noise on an Aida NC1 mechanical press

A knock at the crankshaft is almost always bearing wear or inadequate lubrication. Check oil pressure and oil condition before the next production run.

~30 min8 steps

How to fix die misalignment on an Aida NC1 mechanical press

Die misalignment on the Aida NC1 is usually worn guide pins or an uneven bolster surface. Measure punch-to-die clearance on all four sides before adjusting anything.

~60 min9 steps

How to stop ram drift on an Aida NC1 mechanical press

Ram drift at rest means hydraulic fluid is bypassing a valve spool or piston seal. Isolate the counterbalance circuit first, then test each valve for internal leakage.