Automated Surface Technology

In modern process chains, multi-axis gantry systems and industrial robots are indispensable. At Fraunhofer IFAM, this potential is utilized to develop tailored solutions for industrial surface pre-treatment. Thanks to the available robotic technology, we can optimally support our customers from laboratory trials and feasibility studies to the complete manufacturing process.

Efficient Pre-Treatment of Complex Components

The robot-assisted systems at Fraunhofer IFAM enable highly precise treatment of even complex geometries. This offers significant advantages for the industry: processes can be optimized on real components as early as the development phase, ensuring a faster and smoother transition into series production. All part specific extras can be taken into account from the first point in development on.

Diverse Technologies for Precise and Sustainable Pre-Treatment

Through close cooperation with industry partners, the pre-treatment methods available at the institute meet the latest standards. A broad range of technologies is flexibly combined to achieve optimal results:

• CO₂ Snow Blasting: Sustainable and residue-free surface cleaning.
• Laser Technology: Cleaning, coating removal (locally and selectively), and structuring for pinpoint applications.
• Vacuum Suction Blasting: Effective pre-treatment without material damage.
• Brushing Techniques: Mechanical removal of particles and contaminants.
• Atmospheric Pressure Plasma: Fine cleaning, activation, and coating for maximum adhesion.
• Vacuum UV Lamps: Gentle activation of sensitive materials.

In addition, inline measurement methods such as Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF), aerosol wetting tests, roughness measurements, hyperspectral camera analyses, and other technologies are available for continuous quality control.

Advantages of Robot-Assisted Hybrid Processes

The combination of various methods enables the development of sustainable and efficient processes specifically tailored to the requirements of the respective material and production. This not only reduces costs and throughput times but also ensures that the highest quality standards are met – potentially even for single-piece production lines.

Thanks to the industrial robots at Fraunhofer IFAM, the developed processes can be simulated and tested under realistic conditions. This preparatory work minimizes adjustments during the introduction to series production and enables seamless integration into existing production lines.