Directory:Rimrock Automation/Robotic Sanding Automation
Robotic Sanding Automation Systems
Robotic sanding is performed on metal or plastic parts to meet a final form finish, or for pre-paint preparation. Robotic sanding process media are primarily coated abrasives (belts, discs, cones, flap wheels). Determination of process media is made based upon desired finish & material removed is usually minimal.
The most important determinants of robotic sanding system design and implementation are gripping surfaces availability & access to polishing locations. The majority of robotic sanding systems are based on a part to tool design due to the need for articulated part movement to mimic the former manual process. Part to tool robot system designs provide the advantages of allowing for part regrip(s) & flexibility in approach angles for optimal sanding & coverage. Tool to part robot systems are more common when dealing with simple (single surface) sanding operations, large parts, and/or cells which finish multiple part skus, which would otherwise require gripper changeover.