Automation Service Provides Robotic Solutions for Metalworking Businesses

A service from Walter Surface Technologies has expanded on its automation and robotic solutions for industrial manufacturers. Walter, a member of the A3 — Association for Advancing Automation — has partnered with a network of North American system integrators and end-of-arm tool manufacturers that specialize in robotic systems and material removal operations to develop a fast, thorough automatization process. The process involves a readiness assessment, evaluation of requirements and objectives, selection of the right technology and design of the system, as well as its testing and integration, performance review, training and ongoing maintenance.

These partners, including brands such as PushCorp, ATI Automation and Effecto (formerly Applied Robotics), enable Walter to better support end users from beginning to end, from the quoting and conceptualization stage to the installation and optimization of the system. To further customize the solution and design a system based on the end-user’s needs, Walter works with all parties involved to confirm product availability, thereby promoting a seamless integration.

“Working with Walter has enabled our mutual end users to successfully execute projects thanks to solutions that were not available elsewhere,” says Maximiliano Falcone, VP of sales engineering at PushCorp. “Our joint ability to provide these solutions on an expedited time schedule has not only enabled critical automation projects to stay on time but has also instilled confidence through to our partnership as market leaders within the automated material removal industry.”

Walter offers an array of abrasives, tooling and anti-spatter solutions that can be adapted and tailored to a variety of robotic applications, including heavy grinding, deburring, drilling and finishing, on all types of materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, fiberglass and more. The selection of adaptable products enables Walter to support end users and system integrators looking to automate their processes in various industries, from metal fabrication and automotive to composite, aerospace and metal casting.

“Whether it be to mitigate workforce shortages, increase production output or improve safety in manufacturing and industrial plants, choosing robotic solutions allows users to enhance productivity and efficiency as well as increase quality and consistency, all while reducing rework, costs, changeovers and downtime,” says Cédrik Rochon, R&D engineer.