SCARA Robot Automation for Powder Metal Sintering
July 28, 2025
SCARA Robot Automation for Powder Metal Sintering
Gasbarre Products, leader in powder metal processing solutions, has engineered a custom robotic system utilizing the FANUC SR-20iA SCARA robot to automate sintering operations. This solution was designed to enhance quality, reduce labor costs, and improve ergonomics in a high-mix production environment. SCARA Robot Automation for Powder Metal Sintering
How the System Works:
Parts exit the compaction press and are picked by the FANUC SR-20iA robot using a flexible EOAT system. FANUC iRVision identifies and locates each part, which is then placed directly onto the sintering belt. This eliminates manual handling and ensures consistent part placement, reducing the risk of quality issues such as gaps on the conveyor belt.
System Benefits:
- Labor Reduction: Eliminates manual pick-off and placement, reducing operator workload
- Quality Improvement: Automated placement ensures consistent belt loading, minimizing defects
- Ergonomic Design: Reduces repetitive strain and improves operator safety
- High Flexibility: Designed to handle a wide mix of parts with minimal changeover
- Cost Efficiency: Reduces inventory and streamlines sintering, the most expensive process in powder metal manufacturing
About Gasbarre
Headquartered in DuBois, PA, was founded in 1973 to design, manufacture, and service a complete line of powder compaction and sizing presses for the powder metallurgy industry. Since that time, Gasbarre has earned a worldwide reputation as a full-service supplier to the powder metallurgy, particulate materials and thermal processing industries. With over 200 employees in seven locations, Gasbarre stands alone in the ability to offer equipment and services for all applications related to powder compaction and thermal processing. Today, with 20% of Gasbarre products being exported, there are thousands of Gasbarre presses, furnaces and other equipment in operation all around the globe.
FANUC SR-20iA SCARA
Internally routed cables/pipes give the FANUC SR-20iA SCARA robot a clean look, minimizing interference contour and simplifying its integration into any robotic assembly or packaging line. The compact design and weight of 64 kg and 1100 mm reach ensures maximum efficiency in terms of space and motion range.
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