Robot sand blasting

Specification and Maintenance of Robot Sand Blasting

Robot sand blasting machine specifications vary based on the type of machine and its intended use. The following are some common specifications.

• Materials Used: The material blasted by the robot blaster is usually metallic. It must be strong enough to withstand any impacts from the blasting media. Common choices include aluminum, iron, steel, and low-carbon steel.
• Dust Collection System: This type of machine usually has a dust collection system to keep the work area clear of debris. Typical systems collect over 99% of dust created during blasting. Most of them filter over 100,000 cubic feet per hour.
• Speed: Robots can blast surfaces at different speeds depending on the power of the blasting media. On average, they can remove surface coating at a rate of 100 to 200 sq ft/hr.
• Machine Size: Robot sandblasting machines come in different sizes. Small machines that fit on workbenches usually have dimensions between 2 to 5 meters. Their cabinets are between 1 to 3 meters. Larger machines with spraying guns and rollers are up 10 meters. They have broader cabinets to fit entire surfaces.

Maintenance

A sandblasting robot requires periodic maintenance to ensure it works at optimal levels. Here are some essential maintenance tips.

• Weekly: Perform visual inspections of the entire machine. Check for consistent and even belt wear and area blasting pattern. Confirm that pressure settings are correct. Look for signs of damaged gloves and doors that are not secure.
• After the visual inspection, replace the parts that need servicing. Change the filter, blasting gloves, and furnace shutdown dump valve as required.
• Monthly:Lubricate moving parts like slides, gaskets, winches, and tracks. Wipe off used lubricant from all other parts.
• Every few months, check the dust collector filter and see if it needs cleaning or replacement. Periodically, change the grease in the robotic reducer. Replace or clean the cyclone separator filter in the dust collector.
• Annually: Perform robotic programmer backup and restore. Inspect the sandblasting robot's cabinet and chamber. Look for any parts that need to be replaced and damaged areas. Vacuum the entire cabinet to eliminate any residual media.
• Call in a sandblasting expert to inspect the robot's blast gun and nozzle. Have the expert check the air compressor to confirm it performs within the required CFM range.

Applications of Robot Sand Blasting

Sandblasting is commonly used in the manufacturing and construction industries to give a matte finish to glass products. Nowadays, a new trend of robot sandblasting machines is also being used in the following industries:

• Architectural and Interior Design:

  Sandblasting is commonly used in building facades, monuments, and memorials, as well as in architectural and interior design, where it is used to enhance the appearance of walls, windows, bathrooms, and kitchens. By removing a small layer of the material and creating an uneven surface, this method is used to improve the looks of cement, concrete, marble, glass, granite, and stone surfaces.

• Automotive Industry:

  In the automotive industry, sandblasting robots are widely used for bodywork and chassis repairs in cars, trucks, and other kinds of vehicles. These days, modern automobiles are equipped with many kinds of sensors, computer devices, and accessories made of metal. Sandblasting is used to create a base for better adhesion when painting, because of the improved mechanical grip that results from the uniformly roughened surface. Additionally, it is also helpful in removing existing paint layers and rust from metal parts of the vehicle sandblasting can be used on.

• Metal Production and Manufacturing:

  With the rise in use of metal in everyday objects such as door and car locks, home appliances, furniture, cookware, etc., there is an increasing line of applications of sandblasting machines in the metal production and manufacturing industry and then the hardware industry. Unwanted oxides, such as rust, grease, and oil, are used to clean the metal surfaces. Sandblasting is also helpful to roughen the surface to improve the mechanical adhesion of the metal when other materials like ceramics or plastics are bonded to them. Metal surfaces are also smoothed and polished by sandblasting, which removes burrs and oxide scale and gives the metal a satin finish.

These are just a few industries where sandblasting has become a common practice. There are many more applications elsewhere. If one considers the fact that first impressions really matter and you never get a second chance to make your first impression, it is vital to know that the most important aspect on which the sale of a product is dependent is its surface finish.

How to choose robot sand blastings

Several key factors must be considered when selecting a robot sand blasting for specific requirements.

• Workpiece geometry and size range:

  Usually, the blasting robot is designed for specific workpiece geometries and size ranges. Make sure that the geometry and dimensions of the workpieces are compatible with the sand-blasting robot. Ensure that the robot can adequately capture and process the intended workpiece shapes and sizes.

• Surface finishing requirements:

  Different sand-blasting robots offer varying levels of surface finishing capabilities. Determine the desired surface finish for the workpieces and select a robot that can meet the specific finishing requirements. Consider factors such as the robot's blasting media compatibility, nozzle design, and control system for achieving the desired surface finish.

• Production volume and efficiency:

  Consider the desired production volume and efficiency of the sand-blasting operation. Different sand-blasting robots are suitable for handling varying production volumes. Choose a robot that can meet the required production efficiency for the application. Ensure that the robot has the necessary features to optimize workflow and minimize downtime.

• Floor space and machine integration:

  Consider the amount of floor area available for the sand-blasting robot installation and the capacity for machine integration with existing production lines or systems. Ensure that the robot can be adequately integrated into the manufacturing process, accounting for machine space constraints.

• Budget and return on investment:

  Finally, take into account the budget constraints and return on investment. Evaluate the initial investment cost of the sand-blasting robot and weigh it against the expected benefits, including improved productivity, product quality, and cost savings. Select a robot that aligns with the budget and provides a favorable return on investment for the business.

FAQ

Q1: What are the current trends in sandblasting robot technology?

A1: The sand blasting robot industry is presently noticing trends like smaller, flexible robots with better AI for learning, big robots doing jobs with less manual work, exactly programmed robots, and eco-conscious blasting materials.

Q2: Can sandblasting robots be used with different types of abrasive materials?

A2: Yes, sand blasting robots can be used with various types of abrasive materials. Nevertheless, adapting the robot's feeding system and blast cabinet may be necessary to ensure even distribution and efficient blasting.

Q3: Can sandblasting robots be integrated with other processes like painting or coating?

A3: Yes, blasting robots can be integrated with other processes like painting or coating. Usually, these sandblasting-and-painting-joining robots are designed to prepare surfaces by removing contaminants and etching them before applying paint or coating.