Application
Polishing
Polishing robots refine a part's surface finish after grinding or machining, using a buffing wheel or compliant pad under controlled contact force.
The robot moves a buffing or polishing tool across the part surface in overlapping passes, building up a consistent finish that would take a skilled operator much longer to match by hand.
Compliance is central to good results. A rigid, purely position-controlled path tends to leave visible tool marks, so most cells rely on force control or a compliant tool head to keep pressure even across surface variation.
Buffing compounds and dust from the process need collection, both for housekeeping and because residue on the robot's joints shortens service life.
Related applications
Common questions
- What robots are used for Polishing?
- Polishing suits 6-axis industrial, collaborative robots. Examples include FANUC M-20iD/25, Universal Robots UR10e.
- What payload and reach does Polishing need?
- Payload is typically 3 to 20 kg with reach around 1200 to 1800 mm.
- What matters most for Polishing?
- Compliant force control. Consistent multi-pass path accuracy. Buffing tool integration. Dust and compound collection.