Why CNC Machining is Crucial for the Robotics Industry

Robots are ubiquitous today, from movies to airports, food production, and even factories manufacturing other robots. With diverse functionalities and applications, robots are becoming increasingly prevalent in industries as their manufacturing becomes easier and more cost-effective.

Customization with CNC Machining

CNC machining offers rapid production of robot components with quick turnaround times, starting almost immediately after preparing a 3D model. This allows for rapid prototyping iterations and swift delivery of custom robot parts for specialized applications.

Precision and Surface Finish

Another advantage of CNC machining is its ability to manufacture parts precisely to specifications, crucial for building high-performance robots where dimensional accuracy is paramount. Precision CNC machining maintains strict tolerances of +/- 0.015mm, enabling precise and repeatable movements essential for robots.

Smooth surface finishes are also critical in robot part production. CNC machining can achieve surface roughness as low as Ra 0.8 μm, which can be further polished post-processing. In contrast, casting typically results in surface roughness around 5 μm before any precision machining. Metal 3D printing yields even rougher surface finishes.

Ideal Materials for Robot Parts

CNC machining is ideal for materials required in robots for stable movement and lifting, such as sturdy metals and plastics. These essential characteristics are best achieved through machining certain metals and plastics, as detailed in the materials section below. Moreover, since robots are often used for customization or small-batch production, CNC machining naturally fits as the choice for robot components.

Types of Robot Parts Manufactured with CNC Machining

Robots come in various types, each serving different functions and constructed differently. Major types include articulated robots with single arms and multiple joints, SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) robots for horizontal movement between two parallel planes, and Delta robots with joints at the base for lightweight and rapid movements. Cartesian robots move linear actuators at right angles. Each type consists of components crucial for their function, such as:

• Mechanical Arms: Varied in form and function, requiring robust and sturdy materials like steel, aluminum, and specific plastics ideal for CNC machining.
• End Effectors: Customizable attachments at the end of robot arms, crucial for different operations without needing a completely new robot build. Typically machined from metals like aluminum for durability.
• Motors: Essential for driving robot arm and joint movements, with components often machined via CNC, including housings and brackets.
• Controllers: The brain of robots, controlling precise movements based on sensor inputs, with PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) also machined to required dimensions before electronic assembly.
• Sensors: Provide environmental feedback to the robot's controller, requiring PCBs machined via CNC for installation.

Custom Fixtures and Jigs

While not part of the robots themselves, custom fixtures and jigs are essential for robot operations, aiding in securing and positioning parts for tasks like gripping or placing objects. CNC machining is ideal for producing these customized components quickly and precisely.

In conclusion, CNC machining plays a pivotal role in the robotics industry by enabling rapid prototyping, precise manufacturing of parts, and the use of ideal materials for robust and functional robots across various applications.

Nebu Precision is a manufacturing leader providing on-demand manufacturing services for prototypes and mass production. Specializing in CNC, sheet metal, and plastic injection, we have successfully collaborated with diverse sectors, including Aerospace, Energy, Automotive Manufacturing, Medical Devices, and General Machinery Manufacturing. We consistently deliver high-quality products with precision, on-time reliability, and quality assurance.