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5 Critical Pre-Shift Checks for Your Robotic Sanding System

In our most recent article, we covered five essential maintenance checks for robotic paint systems after a holiday shutdown. Today, Aerobotix is focusing on a different application—robotic sanding.

1. Vacuum

  • Filter – Inspect the vacuum filter and replace as needed. Dispose of used filters according to your facility’s safety protocols.
  • Canister – Empty the canister and properly dispose of accumulated dust and debris.
  • Air Supply – Verify air is flowing to the vacuum system at the correct pressure.

2. Sanding Booth

  • Filters – Inspect all booth filters for damage or excessive loading. Replace any filters that appear clogged or compromised to maintain proper airflow and dust collection.
  • General Cleaning – Sweep the booth floor and remove dust buildup from walls and surfaces. This simple step prevents contamination and maintains a safer work environment.

3. End-of-Arm Tooling

  • Check Mounting Security – Verify all bolts and fasteners are tight. Since sanding applications create constant vibration and force, connections can loosen over time.
  • Sandpaper Grit – Confirm you’re using the correct grit for your application. Using the wrong grit can damage parts or produce poor surface quality.
  • Self-Check Assessment – If your sanding tool offers diagnostic capabilities (such as FerRobotics, our Austrian partner), run a self-check. We recommend performing this annually or whenever performance issues arise.

4. Workpiece Preparation

  • Surface Prep – Verify the component surface is clean and ready for sanding. Remove any oils, coatings, or contaminants that could interfere with the process.
  • FOD Check – Remove any foreign object debris from the work area and fixtures. Even small particles can damage sandpaper or create defects.

5. Robot

  • Air Supply – Often overlooked but critical: verify the air supply is turned on before starting operations.
  • Cables and Lines – Before running any programs, inspect all cables and lines while wearing proper PPE. Look for:
    • Kinks or sharp bends
    • Wear and tear (fraying or thinning insulation)
    • Loose connections
    • Broken or damaged tubes
  • Tool Center Point (TCP) – Verify the TCP orientation and location are properly calibrated. An incorrect TCP can lead to inconsistent sanding results or collisions.
  • Program Selection – Confirm the correct program is loaded on the teach pendant before starting your run.