Flexible Milling Systems

At CNC Robotics, we combine our robotics and engineering expertise and work closely with our clients to create either a standard or special purpose robotic machining system. Machining cells offer a full 6 axis range of motion with expandable build envelope, enabling a level of speed and flexibility not found in traditional gantry based CNC machines. Our systems are suited for the manufacture of small components through to large scale industrial parts for a range of industries. 

A key advantage of using robots is their flexibility. A single system can be fitted with various heads and used at different stages in the manufacturing process.  For example, a robot fitted with an additive-manufacturing head to build up near-net-shape parts and then with a spindle to machine the final component.  Similarly, in composites manufacture, one robot can be used to create a mould or pattern, to then produce the fixtures needed to hold the part during finishing, and finally trim and drill the parts made from that tooling. 

Another benefit of robots is their ability to work in challenging environments. Robots are, of course, able to operate in more extreme conditions than humans but they are also more tolerant than most machine tools. They are less susceptible to extremes of temperature and humidity. They are usually more resistant to dust or other contamination, making them less prone to problems in difficult manufacturing environments.

Our machining system is capable of milling a variety of materials including foam, wood, resins, composites, plastics and stone. If you chose to upgrade the cell with a tool station rack, the system will be able to automatically handle tool changes and tool length calibration, allowing you to queue multiple tool paths without loading multiple files.

KUKA’s industrial robots provide a large working envelope to handle large parts, if your application requires more room, the system can be easily expanded to contain multi axis positioners and linear tracks for expanding the working envelope of the system.

The System

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Streamlined programming

CAD/CAM control for intuitive robotic-arm configuration, simulating toolpaths and testing.

Versatile
Tooling

Interchangeable tool aheads allow you to combine various machining tasks into one process.

large format

Offers an expansive working area for machining sizable components with accuracy and repeatability.

Scalable

Offers scalability with additional 2-axis positioners and linear tracks, substantially enlarging the working envelope.

What's included

ROBOT

Each robot has its own characteristics and technologies. The most important of these are the range of motion and the maximum load capacity, which sets the limits of the machine’s capability. These elements allow you to choose the most suitable industrial robot. 

Hardware

Integrated on the end of the robot is a high speed Hiteco spindle, known for its reliability and performance. It can accommodate a variety of tool sizes and types meaning the spindle is capable of low payload and heavy duty applications. 

Software

The combination of the robot and the software gives the equivalent benefits to those gained when programming machine tools. These include the ability to develop a wide range of toolpath strategies directly from CAD models, together with options to simulate and optimise the program on the computer. 

safety

Our machining system comes with CNC Robotics tested guarding, which has been through strict risk assessments, safety standards and regulations. Doors are fitted with interlocks, whilst the guarding contains internal and external e-stops, this is monitored by an operator control panel. 

System Upgrades

Automatic Tool Changer

Robot drops off and picks up different tools automatically from this carousel as required as part of the program.

Linear
Track

Add a 7th axis to increase the robot's working area. The increased flexibility adds a whole new series of applications.

Rotary
Table

Single-axis turntable with vertical rotational axis is used for direct workpiece positioning up to 1000kg with fully co-ordinated motion.

Extraction Hood

Extraction Hood fits to all standard CNC Robotics standard spindles. Automatically retracts when robot is toolchanging.

Applications

Milling

Machining with robots can provide a faster and more consistent approach than manual operations. The combination of the robot and the software gives the equivalent benefits to those gained when programming machine tools. These include the ability to develop a wide range of toolpath strategies directly from CAD models, together with options to simulate and optimise the program on the computer. These options help to ensure that the robot will operate efficiently and safely, giving the desired productivity across all types of manufacturing.

Sculpting

CNC Robotics had its origins in the use of robots to produce models and sculptures for theatre and also film sets. Therefore, creative applications still form a significant part of the company’s business. Robot sculpting/milling shortens delivery times and also allows skilled craftsmen to focus on more creative tasks. In addition, milling with robots means designs can be machined directly from CAD models, or from physical items that can be scanned and scaled to the size required in the final model.

Finishing

Using robots for finishing often offers the biggest cost benefits. Tooling typically needs to be made only once, while many hundreds, or even thousands of parts, might need to be finished.Therefore, replacing manual finishing improves speed and consistency. In addition, using robots eliminates the health and safety concerns, resulting from demanding and repetitive manual operations.

Trimming

Robot trimming gives greater consistency than manual as well as being quicker in most cases. In addition, reliability can be enhanced by fitting the robot with an inspection probe, initially to ensure that the part is in the correct position before cutting starts.

Industries

Aerospace

Enhance precision in producing lightweight, high-strength components such as turbine blades and structural parts. Enables machining of complex shapes in composite materials, crucial for aircraft efficiency and safety.

architecture

Transforms fabrication processes, allowing for the precise creation of complex shapes and custom designs in structural elements and decorative features, fostering innovation in architectural projects.

automotive

Facilitates the production of critical components and bodywork trimming. Helps in manufacturing lighter and stronger parts, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and performance.

creative

Enables artists and designers to execute intricate designs and artworks with precision, supporting sculpting, milling, and assembly of complex projects in the creative field.

marine

Streamlines the fabrication and repair of ships and submarines, working on components like structural elements and propellers, ensuring durability against harsh marine environments.

renewables

Aids in the efficient production of components for renewable energy systems, such as wind blade molds and solar frames, optimizing performance and extending the lifespan of renewable energy installations.

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