Material Removal

Automate grinding, sanding, deburring and polishing with safe, smart and precise FANUC CRX cobots that boost productivity and quality across industries.
Person Using CRX Programming Technology

Why Material Removal Automation Matters in Modern Manufacturing

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, precision and efficiency are essential—especially in cobot material removal tasks like grinding, sanding, deburring, and polishing. These processes are often repetitive, physically demanding, and require consistent accuracy.

FANUC CRX cobots are engineered to meet these demands with unmatched flexibility, safety, and intelligent automation. Whether you're working with metal, wood, plastic, or composites, CRX cobots help manufacturers improve quality, reduce waste, and simplify deployment—making them some of the best material removal cobots available today.

Cobot Sanding Polishing

FANUC CRX Cobots for Material Removal

The FANUC CRX-30iA cobot model is engineered for cobot material removal applications demanding higher payloads and enhanced rigidity. This cobot is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with advanced end-of-arm tooling, such as the PushCorp Grind X Solution. 

CRX-10iA Robot for Automation

CRX-10iA

The CRX-10iA cobot is a great option for manufacturers new to robotics. It has a 10kg payload capacity and a 1249mm reach, making it a suitable solution for various tasks.The CRX series offers an all-new FANUC programming interface with simple drag-and-drop technology on a touchscreen teach pendant, making it a great choice for applications like palletizing, welding and assembly. The ease of programming paired with FANUC’s world-renowned technology, proven reliability, and sensitive contact detection allows the CRX-10iA to work safely alongside people in various industrial and manufacturing jobs. The CRX series of Cobots is 8 Years Zero Maintenance with the proven industrial reliability FANUC customers expect. For applications where sanitation is an absolute must, the CRX-10iA is also offered in a food-grade cobot model. 
Max Payload 10 kg
Reach 1249 mm
CRX-5iA Collaborative Robot

CRX-5iA

The CRX-5iA cobot was made with the intention of working safely and efficiently alongside human staff. With a 5kg payload and 994mm reach, this collaborative robot is perfect for manufacturers with little to no experience in robotics and automation, especially in applications like material handling, machine tending, and picking/packaging. The CRX series offers an all-new FANUC programming interface with simple drag-and-drop technology on a touchscreen teach pendant. The FANUC CRX-5iA is a safe, reliable cobot that can work with people in manufacturing settings. It's built with FANUC's trusted technology and is easy to program, even for beginners. The CRX series of cobots offers 8 Years Zero Maintenance, with the proven industrial reliability that FANUC customers expect. For applications where sanitation is an absolute must, the CRX-5iA is also offered in a food-grade cobot model. 
Max Payload 5 kg
Reach 994 mm
CRX-10iA/L Flexible Collaborative Robot Arm

CRX-10iA/L

The CRX-10iA/L cobot is an ideal industrial robot for manufacturers with little to no robotics experience, fitting applications across many industries.The CRX-10iA/L comes equipped with a 10kg payload and a 1,418mm reach, making it a perfect solution for industrial applications such as machine tending, picking & packing, dispensing and welding. The CRX-10iA/L's slightly longer reach than the CRX-10iA and its unique underflip motion allow for it to perform dynamic movements efficiently, even in relatively confined spaces.The CRX series of cobots is 8 Years, Zero Maintenance, with the proven industrial reliability FANUC customers expect. For painting and dispensing applications, this model is also offered as the CRX-10iA/L painting cobot.
Max Payload 10 kg
Reach 1418 mm

Simplify Material Removal Automation with FANUC Cobot and Go

FANUC’s Cobot and Go program offers pre-engineered, ready-to-deploy solutions that make it easy to integrate CRX cobots into material removal applications such as sanding, deburring, polishing, and surface finishing. These systems are designed for fast setup and intuitive operation, allowing manufacturers to automate labor-intensive processes with minimal programming or engineering effort.

With flexible mounting options, compatibility with a wide range of end-of-arm tools, and the reliability of FANUC’s proven technology, Cobot and Go solutions help streamline production, improve consistency, and reduce manual labor in demanding environments.

Smart Load 1500 FANUC Cobot Go Thumbnail
IC Automation

SmartLoad 1500

Designed as a compact, mobile automation platform, SmartLoad helps manufacturers increase spindle uptime, reduce manual handling, and achieve consistent output without the complexity typically associated with robotic integration.
Cobot Cobot CRX
Ultra Tech

Cobot Combo

Cobot Combos simplify automation by pairing the right FANUC CRX robot with tailored services—programming, tooling, installation, and support.
Revel Robotic Beveler 448x252 1
OptiPro

Revel™

The OptiPro Revel™ Robotic Beveling Machine automates beveling optics, enhancing efficiency and precision. It features a CRX Cobot for flexible motion and multiple beveling methods.

Material Removal Application Videos

Benefits of FANUC CRX Cobots for Material Removal

FANUC’s CRX cobots are designed to meet the rigorous demands of automated surface finishing and material removal with a host of advantages:

Increased Efficiency

Operate continuously with consistent precision, reducing cycle times and increasing throughput.

Improved Safety

Automate hazardous tasks and reduce exposure to dust, noise, and sharp tools. Built-in sensors stop motion upon contact for safe human collaboration.

Enhanced Precision and Consistency

Integrated force and torque sensing ensures accurate tool placement and consistent pressure — minimizing scrap and rework.

Cost Savings

Lower labor costs, reduce waste, and improve ROI with long-term automation benefits.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Easily reprogram and redeploy CRX cobots for different material removal tasks in high-mix, low-volume environments.

Better Working Conditions

Free up skilled workers from repetitive, strenuous tasks so they can focus on higher-value roles.

CRX Cobot Software for Smarter Material Removal Automation

FANUC’s CRX cobots are equipped with intuitive software that simplifies programming and enhances performance in automated material removal applications such as grinding, sanding, deburring and polishing:

  • Drag-and-Drop Programming: Operators can set up tasks using a tablet-based drag-and-drop interface—no coding experience required. This reduces deployment time and training costs, making material removal cobots ideal for manufacturers seeking easy-to-use automation solutions,
  • iRVision and FS Series Force Sensors: These technologies enable real-time feedback and adaptive control. The cobot “feels” the surface it’s working on and adjusts its path and pressure dynamically, ensuring consistent quality and minimizing rework.
  • Plug-and-Play Ecosystem: FANUC’s ecosystem supports easy integration with a wide range of tools and accessories, backed by a global support network and extensive integrator partnerships.

Applications of Cobots in Material Removal

FANUC CRX cobots are ideal for cobot material removal applications. Their core capabilities shine in industrial grinding, robotic sanding, and automated polishing processes. The integrated force control technology allows these cobots to maintain consistent pressure, which is absolutely critical for producing high-quality, uniform surface finishes even on the most intricate and complex parts. This makes them ideal for industries requiring precision deburring, efficient material removal, and flawless surface preparation.

Industries Benefiting from CRX Material Removal Cobots

  • Automotive: Deburring engine parts, sanding body panels, polishing molds
  • Aerospace: Finishing composite parts, precision machining
  • Metal Fabrication: Grinding and polishing metal components
  • Woodworking: Sanding furniture and cabinetry
  • Plastics: Deburring and polishing molded parts
  • Foundry: Removing flash and gates from castings

What Is Material Removal?

Material removal refers to a set of manufacturing processes that shape, refine, or finish components by eliminating excess material. These processes are critical for achieving precise dimensions, smooth surfaces, and functional integrity.

Deburring

Removing sharp edges or burrs left after machining.

Grinding

Smoothing surfaces or removing material using abrasive tools.

Sanding

Shaping and refining surfaces with abrasive paper or cloth.

Polishing

Creating a smooth, reflective finish.

Milling & Routing

Cutting or shaping materials with rotating tools.

Why Choose FANUC?

Compared to competitors, FANUC’s CRX cobots provide a more accessible, flexible, and user-friendly solution. FANUC’s plug-and-play ecosystem, combined with its global support network and extensive integrator partnerships, makes it easier for manufacturers of all sizes to adopt automation.

Engineer Programming CRX Application

Cobot Devices for Material Removal

Looking to configure your own material removal solution? Take a look at authorized FANUC device partners to get a jump start on your new system!

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Material Removal FAQs

CRX cobots can handle metals, plastics, composites, and wood — making them versatile across industries.

Yes. CRX cobots are designed for collaborative use, with built-in sensors that stop motion upon contact to ensure safety.

Programming is simple and intuitive, using a tablet-based drag-and-drop interface. No advanced coding skills are needed.

Absolutely. With optional tool changers and flexible programming, CRX cobots can transition between grinding, sanding, polishing, and more.

While competitors offer capable systems, FANUC CRX cobots stand out for their ease of use, plug-and-play integration, and robust global support — making them ideal for manufacturers of all sizes.

Ready to schedule a CRX Cobot demo or request a quote?
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Person Using CRX Programming Technology