August 21, 2020

While hand deburring is certainly successful with highly-trained individuals, the output is often far below what manufacturers need to meet their demand. Too often, hand deburring results in more part scraps and lack of inconsistency, which translates to lower quality products.

Robotic deburring can be highly cost-effective and consistent, yet finding the right robotic deburring tool can be challenging. Robots must be properly programmed to execute successful deburring, and there are certain factors to take into account when choosing the right tool.

Here are three tips to help you make the right decision when searching for robotic deburring tools for your automation needs!

Consider Part Geometry

The size, shape, weight, and complexity of your parts that need to be deburred is an essential consideration when looking for the right deburring device. Not every robotic deburring tool can successfully deburr parts of every shape.

The tool you choose will vary based on the location and size of the burrs and how well your tooling complies with the device—in other words, how well it consistently makes contact with and applies force to the part for successful deburring.

If your parts are complex and have tight spaces, you may need a radially compliant device. However, if your burrs are consistently on the edge of the product, axially compliant could be a better choice. It all depends on what your parts look like and how successful your tooling will be to remove burrs without compromising part quality.

Look for Variable Speed Options

Choosing variable speed deburring tools over fixed RPMs gives you greater flexibility. Variable speeds gives your tooling the ability to automatically adjust to part differences, which saves you time and effort on programming. Many different materials can be deburred with just one variable speed robotic deburring device.

Variable speed devices aren’t limited to burrs of a specific size and shape as fixed RPM models are. When deburring, the burr needs to be completely removed, but you don’t want to take off any more material than necessary, which can affect your part’s quality and function. This alone is difficult for many deburring robotic devices to accomplish.

Fortunately, variable speed gives you the flexibility you need for your parts to increase consistency while reducing programming efforts.

Consider Radially Compliant Deburring Tools

Axially compliant tools can be effective for specific applications such as edge deburring. However, for the majority of applications, parts and burrs aren’t consistent, which makes having a robotic deburring tool that can accommodate part and burr changes essential.

Radially compliant deburring tools easily accommodate changes without the need to manually reorient the robot, saving you time and effort. With radially compliant devices, manual deburring is mimicked, giving you consistent force and the ability to get into tighter areas.

With radially compliant deburring tools, you can also remove parting lines and flash, whereas axially compliant tools wouldn’t. Considering radial instead of axial for your deburring processes gives you a greater range of flexibility without sacrificing results.

Invest in the Right Deburring Tool

RAD’s Variable-Speed, Radially-Compliant OmniForce™ Deburring Tool easily adapts to part irregularities and reduces scrap, giving your machines maximum uptime with minimal programming. For consistent results with variable speeds, our deburring tools can successfully be used with your robot arms, gantry systems, cartesian robots, and can even be pedestal mounted to meet your automation needs. Find out more about our automatic deburring tools by contacting us at (937) 667-5705!

by RAD

July 21, 2020

Your end of arm tooling (EOAT), designed to attach to the end of your robot, connects your machine to your automation needs. EOAT gives automation machines their function, allowing your business to increase production while lowering costs and downtime with the right tools.

But choosing the right EOAT is a pivotal decision. Tooling such as robotic grippers, tool changers, and deburring devices all have different roles in automation. Which device you choose all depends on what processes and components you need them for.

Here are some tips for choosing the best robotic end of arm tooling to support optimal function and productivity!

Know Your Automation Needs

Deburring Tool EOAT has many functions in automation, but in order to identify the right device for your needs, you’ll need to look at the product being handled, the speed at which you need it transferred, and even space requirements. The components being handled by your EOAT are important too—are they fragile, irregular shapes, or large?

All these considerations will factor into which tool you choose. At RAD, we have a range of models to cover all requirements for your automation needs, regardless of your specifications. Even if you have a manufacturing environment with extreme dirt and dust, our equipment is designed to last many years even in harsh settings.

Consider Pneumatic EOAT

There are different types of EOAT and they can be powered differently as well. For example, electric and hydraulic grippers are two choices, but they may not be ideal for every setting.

Hydraulic grippers or EOAT can’t be used for automation in the food industry, because they can leak and contaminate food items. Electric grippers are often more costly and don’t provide as much power. They also tend to wear out faster, leading to increased downtime and reduced reliability.

Pneumatic grippers are ideal for a variety of applications, even in diverse settings. They provide a lot of power for their size and are highly efficient. They’re simple to swap out for maintenance, long-lasting, and deliver consistent power. All of our grippers at RAD are pneumatic.

Evaluate the Shape and Size of Your Parts

2 Jaw Gripper The size and shape of the items you need your EOAT to manipulate and transport is a huge factor in your decision-making process. Parts of different shapes, sizes, and fragility have different considerations when it comes to your robotic tooling.

For example:

2-jaw grippers are best for parts of a consistent shape and size with flat surfaces and without fragility concerns.
3-jaw grippers provide more flexibility as they can accommodate parts of different sizes and are ideal for parts with cylindrical surfaces.
Collet grippers are also good choices for cylindrical parts or delicate parts.

At RAD, we also offer deburring EOAT to help you polish parts, and automatic tool changers, which keep your machinery efficient even when you need to change out tooling. You can maximum uptime and reduce the need for on-site labor and maintenance with our devices for your robots!

Let Us Help You Find the Right Component

Once you know what your automation setup needs to properly function, choosing the best EOAT is easier. RAD’s EOAT is an investment into your automation that lasts many years, even in challenging environments. Let us help you identify the right tooling for your robotics to boost productivity and keep your automation setup profitable. Contact us at (937) 667-5705!

by RAD

June 22, 2020

When choosing a robotic gripper for your automation needs, your best choice all depends on your application. There are a range of End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) devices that may work for your process, but that doesn’t mean that every tool will be the most advantageous.

At RAD, our complete line of grippers covers all your automation specifications. No matter what your needs are, we have the make and model to meet them with our industry-leading products. All of our grippers are designed with maximum durability to last.

We offer 2-jaw, 3-jaw, and collet robotic grippers for your applications. But what are the different uses for these grippers and their particular features?

2-Jaw Grippers: Best for Consistent Processes

2 Jaw Gripper Excellent for items with flat surfaces, 2-jaw grippers are an affordable, dependable choice that work with a wide range of applications. Our 2-jaw parallel grippers are incredibly versatile and we have models designed for use in dirty or harsh environments.

With two points providing even pressure on the item for increased stability, 2-jaw grippers are best for parts that are all similarly sized. However, 2-jaw grippers may not be your ideal choice for fragile items.

With adapter plates for easy installation, 2-jaw grippers can be customized for your manufacturing process, whether you need to grip items from the side or top.

3-Jaw Grippers: For Larger or Irregular Parts

3 Jaw Gripper Designed to carry larger objects than 2-jaw grippers, 3-jaw grippers do well with irregularly-shaped parts, as the three points that touch the part self-adjust to the shape. It’s important to know that 3-jaw grippers can only grip parts axially, and they put even pressure on each point for increased stability.

With better centering and a secure grip, 3-jaw grippers provide accurate performance and can be great options for cylindrical or even surfaces. Like 2-jaw grippers, be cautious when choosing these for delicate parts.

All of our 3-jaw grippers at RAD work well in harsh environments and are one of our most popular designs for a variety of automation processes!

Collet Grippers: Best for Delicate or Similarly-Sized Parts

Gripper Collet grippers deliver high-speed performance for parts of consistent shape and size. Providing 360 contact with even pressure, these robotic grippers are an excellent choice for delicate parts.

Adjustable to fit different-sized parts for various applications, collet grippers provide flexibility, but are ideal for parts that have tight tolerances. Easy to change out for maintenance and even field reparable, collet grippers can help reduce downtime.

With their centering capabilities, collet grippers are also an excellent EOAT device for deburring parts or polishing parts. Collet grippers can also work well with cylindrical parts, just as long as part shape and size are consistent.

Why RAD?

At RAD, our robotic grippers are designed to outperform and outlast. You won’t have to change your gripper for many years, even if it’s operating in a challenging environment.

We have a model to fit your specific automation process, and we never receive returns or complaints because our products deliver maximum performance and longevity. We also offer a two-day lead time on orders, which you won’t find anywhere else.

Looking for the right robotic gripper for your applications? We can help you select the right tool for years of reliable performance in your automation lineup at RAD!

by RAD

May 7, 2020

A robotic collet gripper is a tool designed to attach to your robot to transport products in your automation line. With a robotic collet gripper, you can automate processes that include gripping parts that are identical in size.

The collet will open and extend to grab the item and then close and retract to move it. By automating your transport processes for items with a collet gripper, you can prevent damage to your materials and increase your manufacturing efficiency!

Benefits of Using a Robotic Collet Gripper

There are many benefits of using a robotic collet gripper for the proper applications. These grippers:

Work quickly. Since they have a high clamping force, collet grippers can rapidly perform their task, allowing you to increase productivity.
Center parts. Their centering capabilities allow you to use collet grippers for deburring or polishing parts for safety and efficiency.
Perform optimal gripping. Collet grippers use 360-degree contact on your item, which provides even pressure to prevent damage to even the most delicate parts.
Have a narrow profile. This allows the gripper to reach for items in constricted areas where materials may be crowded together.
Are adjustable. You’re able to pneumatically adjust the collet’s gripping force, which means you can adapt the gripper to function with different parts. They’re also flexible enough to give you hundreds of different sizes for different parts.
Maintain durability. Its aluminum casing keeps the tool light while the collets and brushings are made of durable steel.

Robotic collet grippers from RAD are also easy to change out, allowing you to quickly swap out a gripper for maintenance or repairs to keep your automation processes up and running.

Our collet grippers can also be repaired in the field to reduce downtime, and should you ever need a replacement part, we can usually ship items that same day to help you get your replacement component as soon as possible.

Are There Customizations for Collet Grippers for My Application?

You can easily customize collet grippers to suit your particular application. For example, for those who need collet grippers for harsh environments, we offer Viton seals, which help your gripper resist damage from corrosive fluids and high temperatures.

Other customizations include adapter plates for easy installation, collision sensors to protect your investment, and tool changers so that your robot can perform different operations without the need for you to manually swap out tools.

With customizations for your collet grippers, you can ensure your robot tooling is perfectly adapted to your environment for maximum performance.

When to Consider a Robotic Collet Gripper

Robotic collet grippers are excellent for a variety of applications. However, since they’re designed for parts with particular dimensions, these grippers are best used for:

Parts that are all the same size
Items that have tight tolerances
Parts with cylindrical surfaces
Holding items that need to be polished, grinded, or deburred

If you’re not sure whether or not a collet gripper would be the ideal fit for your particular application, our team at RAD can help you discover if these grippers are the best choice for you!

Discover More About Our Collet Grippers

For automation processes that need quick transport of uniform parts, collet grippers can deliver a variety of benefits. Discover more about what our collet grippers can do for you at RAD!

by RAD

March 19, 2020

Tool changers for robotic applications aren’t the bulky and ineffective tools they were in the past. Today, automatic tool changers allow your robots to quickly swap out their end-effectors—including grippers, vacuum tools, and deburring devices—within seconds.

These fail-safe changes decrease downtime that was previously necessary for manually changing tools on the assembly line. Now, you can invest in one end of arm tooling device (EOAT) and use it for a variety of applications. Automatic tool changers use pass-through utilities to transfer power from the robot to the EOAT.

What are some other benefits of a robotic tool changer, and how can you select the right one for your application?

Tool Changers Deliver Versatile Robotic Solutions

Tool changers are versatile enough to support complex applications in automation. They automatically detach and pick up an end-effector with a different device, meaning they can begin doing another task within seconds.

Today’s automation systems need this flexibility and time-saving advantage, especially when manufacturers invest in high-tech equipment that they expect to use for a variety of assembly line processes.

Eliminate unnecessary tooling and increase efficiency by using individual tools that change automatically in seconds. You can accomplish numerous tasks with one investment instead of using multi-tool devices that require separate handling and maintenance.

Increase Uptime and Reliability

Manually changing tooling can take time, but automatic tool changers are designed to switch effortlessly. The tooling consists of a robot and the actual tool, which is attached to the robot via the end-effector.

Having a reliable tool changer for your robot applications is essential, especially in processes where robots collaborate. Tool changers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are typically made from aluminum to keep the tooling light and allow the robot to maintain as much load capacity as possible.

Tool changers allow you to maximize uptime and reduce downtime for your automation applications. Instead of taking the time to manually swap out tools, tools can be quickly changed for necessary maintenance without wasting time or effort.

How to Choose the Right Tool Changer for Your Applications

What should you look for when it comes to the right automatic tool changer for your application? Begin by looking for a fail-safe locking mechanism, which helps avoid interruptions ensure reliability for your processes.

Next, determine the moment capacity of your tool changer to identify the correct one. For example, if moment capacity is low or moderate, you can simply choose a tool changer with a similar payload rating to the robot it’ll be attached to.

However, if moment capacity is high or you need a more precise selection, you can calculate the worst-case moment for your application. To do this, simply:

Estimate the center of gravity (CG) for your heaviest EOAT
Determine the distance (D) from the center of gravity to the bottom of the tool plate
Calculate the weight W) of your heaviest EOAT
Multiply the weight (W) by the distance (D) to get an approximate static moment (M)

Once you’ve determined this number, you can choose a tool changer with a moment capacity equal to or greater than the approximate static moment.

Find Out More About Automatic Tool Changers With Us at RAD

Automatic tool changers deliver unmatched efficiency and flexibility for your manufacturing processes. Get the best tool changer for your automation needs with help from our team at RAD. We offer automatic tool changers to fit your moment capacity and provide the most effective tooling for your robots!

by RAD

February 5, 2020

When implementing an automated system for your production line, it’s essential to choose the right End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) device. Designed for robots, these grippers grasp and move objects to increase production, but you need to have the right type of robotic gripper to make your automation process successful.

The right EOAT shouldn’t compromise the integrity of your applications or employee safety—yet without the right device, your automation systems won’t benefit. These tools have a variety of ends including robotic fingers, vacuum cups, pliers, and more, and can range from electric to hydraulic.

There are several factors to take into account when choosing the right gripper for your application. Here’s how you can evaluate and pick the best one!

Choose the Right Gripper for Your Specific Process

Gripper Consider the specific process you need the gripper for, as this will influence what type you choose. The speed of the process, the environment, and the level of precision are all factors to take into account.

If your process is fast, vacuum cups are a practical consideration. However, if your application needs slower yet more accurate manipulation, robotic fingers or pliers may be better options.

Harsh environments or manufacturing facilities that have a lot of dust or debris need to ensure their robotic grippers are built to withstand such conditions while still being appropriate for your industry. For example, hydraulic grippers aren’t allowed in applications in the food industry due to the potential for oil leaks and contamination.

For applications that require high precision, mechanical grippers are ideal. If your EOAT needs to be able to reliably sort parts, especially when there are inconsistent part sizes, choosing a gripper that excels in precision is necessary.

Consider the Shape, Weight, and Size of Your Parts

Next, consider your parts when it comes to choosing the right EOAT gripper. Size, shape and surface type, and weight are all essential factors when it comes to making the best choice.

Size. If you’re considering robotic fingers for your gripper, the larger the part size, the more fingers you’ll need for your device. Small or irregularly shaped parts typically require grippers with high precision to streamline your automation process.
Shape. Certain robotic grippers are better for certain shapes. For example, parts with flat surfaces can be moved by grippers with vacuum cups or two-jaw grippers, while other shapes can be handled by multi-finger tools. Automation processes moving irregularly-shaped parts can benefit from electric grippers, which tend to be more flexible than pneumatic ones. Parts with cylindrical surfaces need to have three-jaw grippers or an alternative such as collet grippers. If you manufacture textiles, needle grippers may be beneficial, while multi-finger grippers are best for parts that aren’t traditionally able to be moved easily in automation, such as uneven or circular objects.
Weight. Your gripper needs to be able to handle the weight of the part while at the same time keeping up with the speed your process requires. This is where calculations, including the part weight and gripper acceleration, will help maximize the benefits of your EOAT device and preventing damage.

Remember that when applying automation to collaborative applications in which humans and robotic tools work together, you’ll need an EOAT device that’s compliant with all International Organization for Standardization (ISO) safety standards.

Get the Perfect EOAT Device With Us at RAD

Many factors influence the success of your automation process when it comes to EOAT devices. By considering your automation needs as they relate to your procedures and parts, you can make the best decision for your arm gripper. At RAD, we offer a range of end of arm tooling devices for you to maximize productivity in your manufacturing processes—check out our EOAT grippers today!

by RAD

November 28, 2019

Robotic grippers support a diverse range of automation solutions which is why there are different types. Grippers allow the machine to grab, hold, or move an object, similarly to how a human hand works. There are different sizes and styles which can be applied for your particular application.

Two of these options include 2-jaw and 3-jaw grippers. Their differences matter in regards to what they’re being used for, but each provides its own benefits for a variety of functions. Here are the differences between a 2-jaw and 3-jaw end of your arm robotic gripper.

A 2-Jaw Gripper Offers Affordability and Ease of Automation

2 Jaw Gripper One of the most popular styles for automation processes, all styles of 2-jaw grippers provide two different locations where the “fingers” of the gripper touch the item that needs to be manipulated. The gripper closes in towards the center, allowing it to be adapted to the particular shape of an object and providing equal amounts of force for stability.

2-jaw grippers are simple enough to apply to automated processes in which consistency is key, but they’re also useful across a wide range of tasks. 2-jaw grippers offer affordable solutions for people who need simple yet dependable grippers for their machines.

3-Jaw Grippers Provide More Reliability and Accuracy

3 Jaw Gripper Instead of having two locations where the end of the gripper touches the object, there are three in 3-jaw grippers. Having another “finger” to support the movement of the object allows the object to be moved more accurately, and provides better centering. Its parts move together to provide the most secure grip on an item.

What this means is that 3-jaw grippers provide more flexibility, and the gripper can even adjust itself to the specific shape of the component being grasped. In addition to its reliability and accuracy, 3-jaw grippers can carry larger objects in comparison to its structure than 2-jaw grippers.

Your Choice Depends on Your Specific Application

Whether your choose a 2-jaw or a 3-jaw gripper for the end of your robotic arm really depends on what particular application you need them for. In some situations, a 2-jaw gripper will work fine, but in others, a 3-jaw gripper would prove to be a better investment.

RAD provides both 2- and 3-jaw grippers that are operated by air pressure which allows them to securely grip and provide simultaneous movement. Our grippers deliver on the reliability and cost-efficiency you need to support your automation processes!

3 Tips to Help Select the Right Robotic Deburring Tool

Consider Part Geometry

Look for Variable Speed Options

Consider Radially Compliant Deburring Tools

Invest in the Right Deburring Tool

Tips for Choosing the Best Robotic End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) for Your Applications

Know Your Automation Needs

Consider Pneumatic EOAT

Evaluate the Shape and Size of Your Parts

Let Us Help You Find the Right Component

Understanding the Different Applications for and Features of Robotic Grippers

2-Jaw Grippers: Best for Consistent Processes

3-Jaw Grippers: For Larger or Irregular Parts

Collet Grippers: Best for Delicate or Similarly-Sized Parts

Why RAD?

What Is a Robotic Collet Gripper?

Benefits of Using a Robotic Collet Gripper

Are There Customizations for Collet Grippers for My Application?

When to Consider a Robotic Collet Gripper

Discover More About Our Collet Grippers

The Benefits of Automatic Tool Changers for Your Robotic Applications (and How to Choose the Right One)

Tool Changers Deliver Versatile Robotic Solutions

Increase Uptime and Reliability

How to Choose the Right Tool Changer for Your Applications

Find Out More About Automatic Tool Changers With Us at RAD

How Do I Select the Right ‘End of Arm’ Robotic Gripper for My Application?

Choose the Right Gripper for Your Specific Process

Consider the Shape, Weight, and Size of Your Parts

Get the Perfect EOAT Device With Us at RAD

What Are the Differences Between a 2- and 3-Jaw End of Arm Robotic Gripper?

A 2-Jaw Gripper Offers Affordability and Ease of Automation

3-Jaw Grippers Provide More Reliability and Accuracy

Your Choice Depends on Your Specific Application

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