Ask anybody in the manufacturing world what’s at the center of their business’ growth plan, and chances are they’ll be focused on three things: robotics, automation, and Industry 4.0. These all go hand in hand, progressing in tandem alongside each other and demonstrating that we are in the midst of an information age like never before. As the digital facet of robotics and automation technology continues to advance, it is critical to ensure that the physical facet keeps up, too. The demands of robotics and automation capabilities continue to increase exponentially, and in these increasingly complex applications, materials that are just ‘passable’ aren’t going to cut it anymore. It’s time for precision materials to really show what they’re made of.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Before diving straight into the applications of precision bar stock in robotics and automation, it’s important to understand why high-quality material stock really matters here in the first place.
No matter which way you slice it, robots are expensive to build. Not only that, they’re just expensive to maintain throughout their lifecycle, especially in automation applications where every second of uptime is valuable. With this in mind, the value of high quality materials becomes immediately apparent. Precision materials that enhance performance and contribute to longevity may have a higher price tag up front, but the ROI they deliver over time can become an invaluable asset to production managers across countless industries. Below are just a handful of ways that precision bar stock can be employed in robotics and process automation.
Have a unique application? Looking for a material that’s hard to find? Boston Centerless is up to the challenge.
Anywhere that automation and robotics are employed presents an opportunity to enhance productivity with precision materials. In simple process automation components like conveyor belt rollers, precision bar stock can help contribute to smooth performance and lower resistance. While the difference in enhanced roundness, straightness, and dimensional accuracy throughout may seem minute, the advantages in efficiency quickly compound upon one another.
Then there are more advanced automation applications: take CNC machining for example. Advanced tools like high speed spindles and Swiss CNC machines rely on precision bar stock to achieve the stability and accuracy needed to perform as anticipated. On the other hand, precision bar stock can also be shaped into high-quality cutting tool inserts like drill bits, taps, and reamers, which are used in these machines.
In robotics, actuators are vital for movement and control. Precision bar stock is frequently employed in manufacturing actuator shafts and components, ensuring smooth and accurate motion. The high dimensional accuracy and surface finish contribute to reduced friction and enhanced performance, which are critical in high-precision applications.
And of course, what would a robotics assembly be without the electronics that drive it? Precision parts made from conductive metals like copper are often used as connectors in electronic boards, in wiring harnesses, and more. These precision components help ensure that power is delivered efficiently throughout the system while saving valuable space and minimizing material waste.
Let’s take a closer look at a prominent example of robotic systems that require the absolute peak of precision materials: surgical robots. These robots allow a surgeon to control instruments in the operating room remotely, whether that be from another room or from halfway across the globe, all in real time. What was once considered a sci-fi fantasy has now become a marvel of modern medicine, and it wouldn’t be possible without precision manufacturing. With patients’ comfort, health, and sometimes even their lives on the line, there has never been a more pressing need for uncompromising material quality. The complex assemblies of robotic hardware start with precision components machined from quality bar stock like that provided by Boston Centerless.
What can our precision material do for you? Contact us today to find out more.
Unlike other precision bar stock providers which focus on low-volume orders, Boston Centerless’ processing facility is equipped to handle high volume orders as well. Our ability to move high volumes of precision bar stock without any dip in final material quality gives us a unique advantage in meeting the needs of surgical manufacturers. Regardless of order size, we verify each piece using advanced testing methods upon arrival to enhance traceability and ensure that we meet your standards. That way, when you receive your AccuRod® material, getting started is as simple as loading and running your machine– every time.
At Boston Centerless we may be known for our unrivaled precision bar stock quality, but we take pride in being a fully integrated product and services provider.
Beyond our traditional bar stock grinding capabilities, many customers are surprised to learn that we offer precision blanking as well. By allowing us to cut your material down to size before grinding the diameter to your specifications, you can experience not just enhanced precision and surface finish, but also shave hours off of your material lead times. That’s not to mention the cost savings that come with processing your material all under one roof.
Quality starts with raw material selection, which is why we make it a point to acquire materials from our most trusted providers. Not only do we stock an extensive range of common materials like aluminum and stainless steel, but we can also procure difficult to find materials including exotic and specialty alloys that may not be available elsewhere. Whether you need such materials for a short run project or an ongoing production, our supply chain and inventory management expertise is at your disposal.
From procurement to delivery, Boston Centerless is your partner in all things precision. Reach out today to learn how we can take your material supply to the next level.