What does 4 Colour Signal Light mean in CNC Machining Centres?
A 4 Colour Signal Light (also known as a stack light or tower light) is an important visual indicator used in CNC machining centers to convey the machine’s status at a glance. Each color typically represents a specific condition or state of the machine, allowing operators and technicians to quickly assess its operational status. Here’s a common breakdown of what the colors might mean:
- Red Light:
- Indicates a fault or error in the machine. It may mean the machine is in an emergency stop condition, has a tool change problem, or another operational issue that requires immediate attention.
- Yellow/Amber Light:
- Signals a warning or caution state. This may occur when the machine requires operator intervention, such as when material or tools need to be replaced soon, or when a process is delayed for some reason.
- Green Light:
- Denotes that the machine is in a normal operating condition and running smoothly without any issues. It indicates that the machine is actively cutting, grinding, or otherwise processing materials.
- Blue Light:
- Often used to indicate machine setup or manual intervention mode. It may mean the machine is in manual operation, maintenance mode, or the operator is making adjustments or loading new material.
These color codes may vary slightly between different manufacturers or facilities, but the concept is generally the same. The 4 Colour Signal Light helps in improving the workflow by allowing operators to monitor multiple machines efficiently without being near them.