Robot-assisted grinding is a demanding task that requires a tremendous amount of knowledge in terms of techniques, processes and materials. To make it easier for users to find the best solution for their task, two experts in this field have joined forces in an exciting new partnership: SCHUNK, the competence leader for gripping systems and clamping technology, and 3M, one of the leading manufacturers of industrial abrasives. Together they will support companies in optimally automating their grinding, polishing and brushing processes.
Grinding, deburring and polishing – when it comes to demanding tasks such as removing material or finishing components, the majority of companies still rely on manual processing. This is expensive in large-scale production and does not always deliver the desired precision and reproducibility. Robot-assisted processes, on the other hand, guarantee consistent quality, and can operate, unmanned, around the clock. The automation specialist SCHUNK provides customers with support for application validation through testing in the SCHUNK CoLab and delivers the necessary components. With the SCHUNK product portfolio for machining with robots, customers will be able to almost completely replace manual grinding, polishing and deburring processes in automated production.
As a result of the collaboration with 3M, SCHUNK has increased potential for users. 3M, a manufacturer of industrial abrasives, is constantly working on optimising grinding and polishing processes and making them more efficient with innovative products. Combined with SCHUNK’s automation expertise, this will open up a whole new range of possibilities for developing optimum grinding, polishing and brushing processes. Users will profit from the knowledge and expertise of both companies, which will be available through a collaborative sales approach with customer-specific solutions.
When choosing an automated grinding application, customers will be able to take advantage of the experience of both experts. While SCHUNK supplies the components for the robot and supports the technical implementation of the automation application, 3M finds the right grinding material and the optimum process parameters. Moreover, quick and simple feasibility studies on various components can be carried out in the SCHUNK CoLab, and in 3M’s own robotics laboratory there is the possibility of further optimising the abrasive process and achieving optimally matched surface results. In this way, customers will have the best of both worlds and find the best, customised automation solution for their application.
