Currently, robots are extensively used in the manufacturing industry and have become an indispensable element in a large part of the production processes. A huge number of manufacturers rely on adaptable robots to improve the productivity and quality of the products. Industrial robotics allow the automation of various difficult tasks on the production line and bring flexibility in the process.
The injection molding was the first robotic process implemented in 1960. In this process the material used in a liquid state and injected under pressure in the mold. The latter is formed by two halves that are held together during the injection of the metal by the pressure exerted by two cylinders. The mold, once cleaned of metal residues and is suitably lubricated, can be used again.
Application of Materials
Robots are exclusively used in finishing surfaces by coating a certain material (paint, enamel, metal particles, etc.) for decorative or protective purposes which is a critical part of many manufacturing processes. Both in the painting and in the metallic applications, the problem to be solved is similar. Having the greatest diffusion. Its use is widespread in the manufacturing of automobiles, appliances, furniture, etc.
The automotive industry has been the great driver of industrial robotics, using most of the robots installed today. The most frequent robotic task in the manufacture of automobiles has been, without doubt, the welding of bodies. In this process, two metal pieces are joined at a point for the joint fusion of both parts. To do this, a high electrical current and low voltage is passed through two opposing electrodes between which the pieces to be joined are placed.
Assembly operations present great difficulties for flexible automation due to the high precision and skill they normally require. Hence, many assembly processes in the industry have been automated using intelligent robots that work with great precision and speed. However, the current market requires very flexible systems, which allow introducing frequent changes in products with minimal costs. For this reason, the industrial robots have become the ideal solution for assembly automation.
Application of Adhesives and Sealants
Robots are frequently used for the application of sealing material cords or adhesives in various industries. In this process, the material to be applied is in the liquid or paste form in a tank, being pumped up to the application gun that carries the robot which regulates the flow of material that is projected. In addition, robotics in the manufacturing industry are also used to screw, assemble, label, manipulate and in quality control. By automating production, the industrial robotics are facilitating various manufacturing industries to increase productivity and improve the quality of products.