Yes, Kawasaki Robotics’ lineup of robots ranges from 3kg to 1500kg and is capable of cutting, deburring, polishing, sanding, grinding, buffing, and surface finishing for various materials such as wood, metal, plastic, and composites.

Our robots are compatible with numerous tools such as rotary grinders, orbital sanders, belt sanders, brushes, polishing wheels, and compliant deburring, drilling, and cutting tools. Our robots come with a standard Kawasaki mounting flange, and end-of-arm tools can easily integrate using discrete I/O, Fieldbus communications, and EtherCAT for force/torque sensors, which allows for precision-controlled material removal and consistent surface finishes.

Yes. Robots deliver repeatable, high-quality results by maintaining consistent path speed, angle, and force — something challenging to achieve with manual labor. Robotic systems help eliminate inconsistencies caused by operator fatigue.

For material removal processes such as grinding, sanding, deburring, or polishing, Kawasaki robots paired with compliant tools and force/torque sensing offer a significant advantage to manual processes, thanks to real-time feedback and adaptive controls, allowing the adaptability and precision needed to achieve consistent high-quality material removal across several applications and part complexities.

Yes. Kawasaki robots are highly flexible and can be programmed to handle complex geometries and varied part sizes. Optional vision systems, 3D scanners, and quick-change fixtures help adapt to different parts with minimal downtime.

In general, robotic material removal and finishing systems remove workers from hazardous environments involving dust, sharp materials, vibration, and repetitive motion, reducing injuries. Conducting a risk assessment is a crucial step for deploying any robotic system. Once performed, the proper measures can be taken to eliminate risks and ensure operator’s safety. Kawasaki Robotics offers Cubic-S, a safety-rated system that monitors and limits robot motion and creates dynamic safety zones. Our robots can easily integrate with safety sensing options such as laser scanners or light curtains for early operator detection, controlled robot deceleration, and stops to meet ISO and OSHA standards.

When calculating the ROI for any robotic system, consider the total cost of ownership, which includes the upfront capital investment, operating expenses, labor-related savings, productivity gains, quality improvements, scrap and material savings, and tool optimization.

The level of difficulty is determined by the complexity of the removal or finishing process, whether it involves a simple “go-to-points and repeat” or a process that requires part variation compensation or continuous path adjustments. Kawasaki robots are user-friendly, supporting both easy teach pendant programming and offline programming via K-ROSET. We also offer a range of free resources, along with online and in-person training, catering to all types of users. For complex paths, 3D models and CAM software can be used to generate automated paths quickly and accurately.

Yes, Kawasaki Robotics offers through-life engineering and support services. And, Kawasaki has a global network of system integrators that specialize in providing turnkey robotic material removal and finishing systems, including tooling and force/torque sensor integration, safety systems, programming, and operator training, ensuring a fast and smooth implementation.

Industries such as metal fabrication, automotive, consumer goods, and construction equipment manufacturing often use robotic material removal and finishing solutions as it ensures labor efficiency, part quality, and less waste.