Alarm 68 fires when the coolant temperature sensor detects coolant exceeding the maximum threshold set in Parameter 237 (typically 140-150°F). The NGC control monitors coolant temperature through the temperature sensor circuit and triggers this alarm to prevent thermal damage to the coolant system components and maintain cutting fluid effectiveness.
HaasCoolantIntermediate45-90 minutes
68
HAAS Alarm 68 - Coolant Tank Temperature High
Coolant Tank Temperature High
This alarm activates when the coolant tank temperature sensor indicates the coolant has exceeded the safe operating temperature threshold, typically 120-130 degrees Fahrenheit. The IOCON board monitors the thermistor or thermocouple in the coolant tank and triggers this alarm to prevent thermal damage to machine ways, spindle bearings, and workpiece thermal expansion issues. The machine may pause operations until coolant temperature drops below the reset threshold.
Root Cause Summary
Alarm 68 fires when the coolant temperature sensor detects coolant exceeding the maximum threshold set in Parameter 237 (typically 140-150°F). The NGC control monitors coolant temperature through the temperature sensor circuit and triggers this alarm to prevent thermal damage to the coolant system components and maintain cutting fluid effectiveness.
Safety
Do not operate spindle while coolant temperature is elevated above safe limits
Be extremely careful when handling coolant as it may be very hot and cause thermal burns
Allow coolant chiller adequate airflow and do not obstruct cooling fan vents
Causes and Fixes
1
Check coolant pump operation
Press COOLNT on the control panel and observe pump operation. Listen for unusual noises, grinding, or irregular flow patterns.
Ensure spindle is stopped before checking coolant system
2
Verify coolant level and flow
Check coolant tank level through sight gauge. Low coolant causes pump cavitation and overheating. Refill with proper coolant mixture if below minimum level.
Coolant level should be between MIN and MAX marks on tank sight gauge
3
Inspect pump motor temperature
Feel pump motor housing for excessive heat. Check electrical connections at pump motor for loose or corroded terminals.
Disconnect power before checking electrical connections
4
Test pump motor amperage
Use clamp meter to check pump motor current draw. Compare to nameplate amperage. High amperage indicates bearing failure or pump blockage.
1
Check coolant filter condition
Remove and inspect coolant tank filter and any inline filters. Look for metal chips, sludge buildup, or bacterial growth blocking flow.
Replace filters every 3-6 months or when visibly contaminated
2
Inspect coolant nozzles and lines
Check all coolant nozzles for blockages. Remove nozzles and clear any debris. Verify coolant lines are not kinked or collapsed.
Use proper PPE when handling contaminated coolant
3
Clean coolant tank and system
Drain coolant system completely. Clean tank, remove sludge and debris. Flush lines with clean water before refilling with fresh coolant mixture.
4
Verify system flow rate
After cleaning, measure coolant flow rate at nozzles. Compare to specifications in machine manual to ensure adequate flow for heat removal.
1
Access temperature sensor diagnostics
Navigate to CURRENT COMMANDS > COOLANT TEMP to view real-time temperature reading. Compare to actual coolant temperature using infrared thermometer.
Temperature should read within 5°F of actual coolant temperature
2
Check sensor wiring and connections
Locate temperature sensor in coolant tank. Inspect wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Check continuity with multimeter.
Disconnect power before checking sensor wiring
3
Test sensor resistance
Disconnect sensor and measure resistance across sensor terminals. Compare readings to temperature/resistance chart in electrical manual.
RTD sensors typically read 100 ohms at 32°F, increasing with temperature