Automatic painting (robotic)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Automatic painting is also used to describe painting using a machine or robot.
Industrial robots have been used for decades in automotive applications, including painting, from the first hydraulic versions, which are still in use today but cannot match the quality or safety of the electric robots, to the latest electric offerings from the robot Original Equipment Manufacturers. The newest robots are more accurate and deliver better results with uniform film builds and precise thicknesses.
Originally, industrial paint robots were big and expensive, but today the price of the robots, new and used, have come down to the point that general industry can now afford to have the same level of automation that only the big automotive manufacturers could only once afford.
The selection of today’s paint robots is much greater; they vary in size and payload to allow many configurations for painting big items like Boeing 747s and small items like door handles. The prices vary as well, as the new robot market becomes more competitive and the used robot market continues to expand. It is possible to purchase a good used paint robot for as little as $25K.[citation needed]
Painting robots are generally equipped with five to six degrees of freedom, three for the base motions and up to three for applicator orientation. These robots can be used in any explosion hazard Class 1 Division 1 environment.
