Frequently Asked Questions About Robotic Machining

We are, by no means, attempting to replace or compete with traditional CNC machines.  However, Robotic Milling offers greater flexibility, a larger work envelope, and the ability to more efficiently handle complex 3D shapes compared to traditional CNC machines.  The price to size ratio is definitely in the favor of Robotic Milling.

Our Robotic Machining systems can process a variety of materials including wood, foam, composites, plastics, and metals like aluminum. We’ve even cut ice!  The determining factors include the size of the arm, type of spindle, type of machining, and type of tooling.  We're happy to review your project to determine feasibilities.

Our Robotic Machining systems use off-the-shelf CAD/CAM software for precise toolpath generation, making them easy to integrate into existing workflows, especially if you're already using CAM.  If you’re not already using CAM, we can make some recommendations. We also highly recommend an external simulation system, which we can recommend. We're happy to discuss whether or not your existing system can work with our systems, or we can make recommendations.

We’ve been designing and manufacturing Robotic Machining systems since 2004. We’ve put a TON of work into experimental R&D. Our conclusion is that Kuka provides us with the most accurate and rigid platform. Plus, they’re a great company to work with!

That said, we have worked with other manufacturers and are flexible. If you’re bound to another manufacturer, we’re happy to discuss the best platform for your application.

At least once a month, we’re contacted by a company that bought a system from a typical integrator. These situations almost never end well and, often, we’re asked to salvage a project gone off the rails.

Typical integrators dabble with machining.

We don’t dabble. Robotic Machining is 99.9% of what we do.

There’s MUCH more that goes into our systems than meets the eye. We call it our secret sauce. We know which components work best. There’s also a ton of software development that is baked into our systems to make your experience one that is positive.

After we install the system and train your staff, you will be productive, beginning day 1.

Following the installation, our Applications Engineer will provide training to make sure you’re productive, beginning day one. You’ll be shocked to see how easy it is.

Using a robotic platform has inherent advantages. Keep in mind that while a traditional CNC machine has servos, ball screws, and box or linear ways, those components are protected by way covers.

Our background is in machining. We’ve cleaned out enough machines to know that chips and sludge eventually find their way under those way covers.

Contrast that with the design of a robotic arm which is a completely sealed system.

Additionally, there’s a much higher expectation for a robot. Robots work in environments where they will see millions and millions of cycles. There’s reliability built into these systems, right from the start.