Robotic sanding for Composite and Metal parts

Sanding is one of the most commonly applied processes in all sectors of the industry.

Metal and composite sanding improves the surface finish of a part by eliminating geometrical defects and change its roughness value. The result is:

• a surface that is ready to paint
• a surface that is suitable for assembly by bonding
• a finished piece with a matte, brushed or gloss effect.

This process is still mainly done by hand as the quality of the sanding depends on the operator’s skill and dexterity. It is, though, a particularly arduous task, that exposes operators to dust that frequently generates MSD (Musculoskeletal Disorders).

Inescapable step within parts manufacturing, sanding still is a tedious, manual operation with erratic quality. 

Robotic sanding is the next manufacturing level

Automated sanding in industry offers several key advantages, particularly in GEBE2’s turnkey robotic cells for composite and metal parts.

Robots ensure constant pressure and speed, resulting in uniform sanding quality on all surfaces and reduced human error. They boost productivity by operating 24/7, quickly processing multiple parts and accelerating production. Although the initial investment may be high, it reduces labor costs and rework, saving money in the long term.

Robots also improve safety by taking on repetitive tasks likely to cause injury. Their adaptability enables them to sand parts of various shapes and sizes without major tool changes, resulting in high-quality finishes, essential in sectors such as aerospace and automotive.

In order to get this processes automated, our sister company GEBE2 has developed a sanding robot working using :

• A smart effector able to reproduce man’s gesture
• Specific programming methods
• Automated management of sanding consumables