Buffing Robots

Buffing is a finishing process used in manufacturing to smooth the surface of a workpiece using an abrasive and work wheel. Buffing and polishing applications are similar in that they both refine workpieces; however, buffing is less harsh. Buffing is a less aggressive finishing process since it uses a loose abrasive applied to the work wheel. Buffing also produces a smoother and brighter finish than polishing. It is one of the last steps of a manufacturing process before a part is completed, helping to remove any defects to produce an esthetically pleasing product for consumers. Although this process helps to add value to a product by improving its appearance, it is one of the most unpopular jobs in manufacturing. Manual buffing is tedious, laborious, and hazardous to workers. It can also be plagued with inconsistencies and errors. These issues have led many manufacturers to automate their buffing applications with industrial robots.

Industrial robots are a proven cost-effective manufacturing solution for many processes. Advancements in their technology has led to the expansion of their work scope into material removal and finishing processes such as buffing. Robotic buffing can be used to smooth and finish a number of material types including metals, stones, and wood. Robots can be deployed to either directly perform the buffing application by being integrated with a buffing wheel as their end-effector or they can hold and maneuver workpieces to apply them to an abrasive wheel. The FANUC M-710ic and the ABB IRB 4600 are two examples of robots that are ideal for integrating tooling to directly perform buffing tasks. For those who may already have fixed buffing machinery but are still looking to automate, the FANUC R-2000ib/165F or the Yaskawa Motoman MH165 are material handling robots that would be a perfect solution for applying workpieces to buffing machinery.

In either scenario several advantages of automating with robots include accuracy, efficiency, and quality of buffing applications allowing manufacturers to produce smooth and uniform products consistently. Robots are programmed to follow buffing applications parameters, preventing any deviation from occurring with each workpiece. Buffing robots can also be equipped with force control sensors which provide feedback to the robot regarding the pressure applied to a part. With force control technology, robots are able to operate with precise movements ensuring the correct amount of pressure is applied to retain the integrity of the workpiece. With manual buffing it is impossible to regulate the force applied by workers, this can result in errors, wasted materials, and increased cycle times. Applying too much or too little force can compromise product quality and cause inconsistent finishes. Buffing robots are able to replicate their work with each part, producing consistent and reliable quality products. Production times are sped up as stoppages for mistakes are eliminated helping to increase productivity.

Industrial robots are reshaping the manufacturing world. They are increasingly being deployed for complex applications including buffing. Robotic buffing enhances worker safety, product quality, and productivity. Robots are becoming easier to integrate and more affordable, allowing manufacturers both large and small to automate their buffing applications with robotics.

Contact us by email mm@robotsdoneright.com or phone (440) 724-6568 today to discuss buying or selling a buffing robot.