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.
