Robots for Precise Material Processing
Cutting, Finishing, Deburring and more with Motoman Robots
Yaskawa Motoman offers manufacturers a wide range of robotic solutions for cutting and material removal applications. Our robots have been used extensively in laser, plasma, waterjet and oxy-fuel cutting applications, as well as grinding, polishing and finishing.
Many robots are not designed for the rigors of grinding, polishing, buffing or other material processing tasks that use the robot to manipulate a material removal tool (wire brush, sand paper, knife) over the part surface or contours. In addition to an extensive line of six-axis general-purpose robots, Yaskawa Motoman has a robust, application-specific cutting robots designed with the rigidity needed for material removal applications. In order to ensure constant surface pressure on contoured products, an active force sensing device is often used to optimize the finish on the part and increase efficiency of using abrasive consumables by as much as 10 times!
Robotic material processing systems are often required to perform multiple tasks -- cutting and deburring, sanding and polishing, etc. Two approaches – multiple spindles or spindles that can change media or tools – can be used to perform the various tasks. The method used is generally determined by the process. Experienced Yaskawa Motoman application engineers will help you determine the best approach for your project.
Material Removal Processes
Cutting and Material Removal applications typically consist of multiple operations. While the operations vary with the application, we've listed several of the most common operations below.
Industrial Grinding
Grinding applications typically mean bringing parts to a grinder or sander and holding the parts precisely or moving along a specified path. We have a wide range of robots for larger parts. The HP-series robots have the payload capacity for handling large parts and are a parallel link design, which is very stiff for demanding high pressure grinding applications.
Finishing & Polishing
For finishing and polishing applications, the parts are frequently smaller. For these applications, robots from our GP Series are a good choice for the task. These high performance, durable robots are ideal for these applications. For part to process tasks with larger parts, the MH215 or MH250 are good choices.
Deburring
For gear deburring, we offer preconfigured and customized robotic systems designed for precise deburring of gears up to 20" in diameter and 10" tall. These are general guidelines that may differ depending on the specific gear configuration. Other configurations are available to meet specific customer needs.
Waterjet Cutting
Robotics can improve accuracy and cycle times, particularly in waterjet cutting applications where improving the time handling the material is critical to achieving TAKT time.
Laser & Plasma Cutting
This robotic process requires a powerful high-speed robot with high-rigidity and precision drives. Common robotic uses include cutting small holes and sharp corners in metal.
A clean and agile alternative method. Yaskawa Motoman's ultrasonic solution delivers cleaner cuts and infinite flexibility for trimming, routing, deflashing and more. Patented robotic tools add versatility and streamline changeovers for low-volume secondary operations. - Learn more
Sawing
Many people think of sawing as a material handling application. In cases where the robot loads product into or out of a saw, it certainly has many of the same characteristics. In recent years, we have seen an increase in applications where the robot is manipulating raw material as it is cut by the saw blade. This creative application provides a highly flexible solution for cutting a wide range of materials.
Material Processing Examples
Video
Case Studies
Motoman Material Processing Robots
Yaskawa Motoman’s extensive product line of high-performance robots includes a variety of application-specific and general-purpose models that are ideal for material removal, surface preparation and finishing operations, including grinding, finishing, polishing, sawing, degating, cutting, etc.
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Variety of configurations available
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High torsion and rigidity deliver industry-leading performance
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Wide range of work envelopes
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Floor-, wall- and ceiling-mounted models
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Custom or standard end-of-arm tooling available
Versatile Trimming & Routing
Break the limitations of conventional cutting with a clean and agile alternative. Yaskawa Motoman's ultrasonic solution delivers cleaner cuts and infinite flexibility for trimming, routing, deflashing and more. Patented robotic tools add versatility and streamline changeovers for low-volume secondary operations.
Customize your cuts
Buyers of custom-designed plastic, fiber and composite components are demanding shorter runs with a high level of customization. If your current tools aren't viable for handling low-volume orders, it's time to consider a solution that expands your capability to be agile and profitable without compromising quality.
Yaskawa Motoman has partnered with world-class cutting technology and industrial integration providers to offer a suite of robot-guided ultrasonic knives and routing tools, designed to work with a multitude of cuts and materials.
Improved Cut Quality
Achieve more control with programmable trackball and self-sharpening tool options.
Simple Changeovers
One equipment buy gives you unlimited options that are easily ready for the next job.
Reduced Floorspace
Self-contained cells and hybrid tooling enable more productive work in less space.
Cleaner & Safer
Reduced waste in a safer, more simple operating environment.
Target Materials
Resin plate
Glass fiber (GFRP) Formed decorative film
Foam
Blow-molded parts
Injection-molded parts
Carbon fiber (CFRP)
Aluminum foil composites
Non-woven fabrics
Controlled-depth kiss cutting
Examples
Robotic Systems
EcoTrim Pre-Engineered Systems
EcoTrim solutions are designed for high-speed ultrasonic cutting, trimming, deburring and chamfering applications. One-and two-robot cells available with options for ultrasonic knives and hybrid trimmer-routers. Learn More
Custom Engineered Solutions
One key to your success with robotic automation is partnering closely with a team of specialists. Work with Yaskawa Motoman and our network of leading system integrators and technology partners who understand your business. Together, we can engineer a system that meets your specific needs.
Will Ultrasonic Make Your Cut?
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Material Removal Specialists
Alliance Automation, LLC
Alliance Automation is a leader in the design, build and integration of Robotic Waterjet Cutting Systems, Ultrasonic Trimming & Routing, Glue Dispensing Systems, along with a variety of other robotic applications. Established in 2001 and Located in Flint, MI we serve the USA, Canada, and... view profile
Continental Welding Corp.
We can offer a wide variety of systems from simple to turn-key with complex tooling and part run-off capability. We are committed to providing the customer with the most efficient solutions today for a more productive tomorrow. Let us survey your welding applications and help you determine if... view profile
i-Cubed
I-Cubed Industry Innovators Inc. is an entrepreneurial high tech machinery manufacturer which provides automation solutions with innovation and integrity. Established in 2008, I-Cubed is an employee owned Canadian corporation with more than 55 employees and operates from multiple modern... view profile
Innovative Automation Inc.
Innovative Automation Inc. is committed to providing creative, practical solutions to help our customers increase quality, reduce costs and deliver on-time. We strive to provide superior quality automation technology, competitive prices, and exceptional customer service. Innovative minds working as... view profile
JR Automation Technologies
Established in 1980, JR Automation is a leading provider of intelligent automated manufacturing and technology solutions that solve customers’ key operational and productivity challenges. JR Automation serves customers across the globe in a variety of industries including automotive, aerospace,... view profile
KC Robotics
KC Robotics is a process-driven robot systems integrator, specializing in arc welding, material removal and material handling applications. As an RIA Certified Integrator, KC Robotics is committed to improving customers’ profitability and productivity through quality automated solutions.... view profile
Amtec Solutions Group
ASG is a leader in Factory Automation Solutions. We have designed and built automation systems for many of the world's foremost manufacturers in areas as diverse as Automotive Engine Assembly, Automotive Seat Assembly, Copper Wire Processing, various Material Handling and Packaging Systems. ASG... view profile
Coldwater Machine Company
Coldwater Machine Company is a leader in the design, build, and integration of specialized equipment for discrete manufacturing with extensive precision machining capability. We apply our breadth of experience across metalworking, materials science and manufacturing processes to develop... view profile
Rixan Automation
Rixan Automation provides their customers with a highly skilled, knowledgeable engineering staff. Rixan’s engineers are factory trained and many of our engineers began using robots in the very early years of the industry.