Main Materials Used in Robotics Industry: Useful Guide
The robotics industry is leading as the most prominent one these days because of the advancement it offers. However, when it comes to manufacturing robotics components, versatile materials are used.
Some of these main materials used in robotics are discussed in the guide below.
Metals and Alloys
The different types of metals and alloys used for manufacturing robotic components are as follows:
Acier inoxydable
Acier inoxydable is used in robotics due to its properties. It offers durability, and it is suitable for use in harsh conditions. The material ensures corrosion and temperature resistance and can be suitable for machining as well.
Components like gears, frames, and motor parts used in robotic systems are manufactured using stainless steel.
Aluminium
Aluminium is used in many industries because of the light weight it possesses. It also offers high resistance against heat and is weldable. Hence, robotic components can be manufactured using an enhanced surface finish and corrosion resistance.
The components for robots manufactured using aluminum are wheels, bearings, and enclosures.
Titane
Titane is used in robotics because it has a high melting point and is biologically inert. It even offers corrosion resistance. However, it is very expensive and requires specialized equipment for welding and casting.
Hence, it is only used for lightweight and strength-oriented components.
Copper, Brass, and Bronze
Cuivre and brass are used in robotic systems because they offer excellent electrical conductivity and resistance against corrosion.
Copper can be chosen for wiring, and brass can be chosen for mechanical parts. Bronze is selected for low friction properties and hence can be a stable material for harsh environments.
Plastics and Polymers
The different types of plastics and polymers commonly used in robotics are as follows:
Acetal
Acetal is a lightweight plastic that has excellent dimensional stability and low friction. It is used in robotics to manufacture components like casing, frames, and housings.
ABS Plastic
Plastique ABS is used in robotics for flexibility, strength, and mold capability. It is used for manufacturing structural components which do not add weight to the robotic applications. The components manufactured are enclosures, housings, and other components.
Nylon
Nylon is a material offering versatility due to its excellent strength and wear resistance. It is used for components of the robots that move like bearings and gears. It has low friction and is also known for self-lubricating properties.
Polyéthylène
Polyéthylène has high impact resistance and chemical inertness.it is also flexible and lightweight hence opted for sliders and bushings. It also resists chemicals and moisture and can be used in moisture-oriented environments.
Matériaux composites
Robotic components are also made using different types of composites, and some of them are as follows:
Kevlar
Kevlar is a synthetic fiber, and it offers a layer of protection that helps the robots deal with different environmental conditions like extreme heat, cold, and pressure. Kevlar is mostly used to cover the robotic arm.
Fiberglass and Carbon Fiber
Fiberglass and carbon fiber are chosen for their high strength. These materials are mostly used for manufacturing insulation, structural panels and housings for robots.
They help with the high performance of the components to enhance the durability and strength of the robots. It is also a lightweight material.
Filled Plastics
Filled plastics are polymer materials that have fillers like carbon fiber or glass fibers so that the mechanical properties can be enhanced. These materials can make the robotic components strong.
They also enhance dimensional stability and heat resistance. They are suitable for housings, robotic arms, and gears.
Elastomeric Materials
The elastomeric materials usually used on robotic components consist of rubber.
Caoutchouc
Rubber is a very important material used in robotics as it is flexible and offers elasticity. Rubber also has the ability to absorb vibrations and shocks and hence is used in wheels, grips, and gaskets.
Unique/ Innovative materials
Some unique materials used for manufacturing robotic parts are as follows:
PCL
Polycaprolactone is a polyester that has a low melting point and is biodegradable. It is used in manufacturing custom components, which consist of sensors, robotics, and some fixtures. They can opt for such components that require reshaping at low temperatures.
Bioplastics
Bioplastics are environment-friendly materials that are obtained from sources like sugarcane, corn scratch, and potato scratch.
They are used in robotics because of their environmental friendliness. They can opt for components like housings, panels, and structural components.
Conclusion
When it comes to manufacturing different types of robotic components using versatile materials, we at DEK offer you a variety of options. We will discuss your requirements and then suggest the material suitable for your robotic component.
