Robotic System Provides Fast Solutions

Fastems LLC offers a range of automated robotic finishing products for grinding, polishing, deburring and brushing processes. Robotic finishing eliminates variations in hand finishing operations and is said to maximize output of precisely finished parts. According to the company, the robotic systems provide speed and flexibility through a combination of control and software technology, spindle choices and a variety of process tools and accessories.

The company provides an option between pneumatic and electric spindles. The company says pneumatic spindles have programmable compliance that enables tools to compensate for part feature variations. Pneumatic spindles are generally fitted with a single tool and are used in applications that do not require several tools. Electric spindles are said to be suited to applications where tool changes are frequent. Electric spindles feature power, programmable rotational speeds and accurate tracing of control variables. Process tools include burrs, brushes, grinding stones, abrasive and flap-style wheels, as well as specially engineered tools.

The company provides both online and offline programming options. For product families with few variations, online programming at the finishing cell is said to be a quick solution. For parts that change frequently and have complex geometries, programming offline employs FastSimu, the company’s offline programming software.

Accessories include spindle cooling systems, tool presence sensors, application-specific process control sensors and Renishaw touch probes. Spindle and tool cabinets are offered with electric spindles and spindle racks for applications employing pneumatic spindles. Sound-isolated or flushproof housings and dust and fume extraction systems are also available.