Sanding is one of the most repetitive and physically demanding tasks in fabrication. Manual sanding can lead to fatigue, inconsistent finishes, and safety risks. Automating this process improves quality, reduces injuries, and increases throughput. Sanding automation addresses key challenges in manufacturing: labor shortages, quality control, and operator safety. By automating sanding, manufacturers can ensure consistent surface finishes, reduce ergonomic strain, and maintain high productivity levels.
FANUC's CRX line of sanding cobots delivers precise and efficient automation, perfect for a wide range of surface finishing tasks.
FANUC CRX cobots, combined with plug-and-play sanding tools and accessories, offer a streamlined path to automation. These cobots are ideal for manufacturers looking to reduce manual labor, improve surface finish consistency, and increase throughput without overhauling their production floor.
AI-powered cobot door sanding by KANE Robotics uses FANUC CRX for efficient, flexible, and consistent sanding, driven by Nvidia AI with no programming needed.
Performance Composites, Inc. partnered with GrayMatter Robotics to automate sanding fiberglass and composite products for buses, trains, and trucks.
Sanding automation involves using robotic systems—often cobots—to perform surface finishing tasks such as smoothing, deburring, or preparing parts for coating. Instead of relying on manual labor, automated sanding delivers consistent, repeatable results while reducing operator fatigue and exposure to dust and vibration.
With advanced force control, path programming and tool compliance, the FANUC CRX cobot can adapt to various materials and geometries. For manufacturers, investing in a cobot sander means higher throughput, improved quality and a safer work environment—all with minimal disruption to existing workflows.
Cobot sanding is highly versatile and can be applied across many different manufacturing processes. Here are some of the most common applications where it excels:
FANUC’s CRX cobot sanders feature a tablet-based programming interface designed to simplify automation for users of all experience levels. With drag-and-drop functionality and hand-guided teaching, the CRX makes setup and operation fast, flexible, and user-friendly.
FANUC CRX cobots offer versatile sanding automation across multiple models, including the high-payload CRX-30iA and lighter options like the CRX-10iA and CRX-30iA. Their compatibility with compliant tools, intuitive programming, and robust safety features makes them ideal for sanding tasks of all sizes. Backed by FANUC’s global support and reliability, CRX cobots deliver scalable, efficient solutions for surface finishing.
Looking to configure your own sanding solution? Take a look at authorized FANUC device partners to get a jump start on your new system!
Yes, they support a wide range of compliant sanding tools.
No, the tablet interface and hand-guided teaching make it easy for first-time users. For complex sanding paths, advanced programming can be used, including CAD to Path or the “TP Auto Generate” function in force control.
Metals, wood, composites and more.
Not necessarily — CRX cobots are collaborative, but a risk assessment is required.
Collaborative robots (cobots) are used across industries for tasks that require precision, consistency, and safety. Common applications include machine tending, assembly, sanding, welding, packaging, inspection, and material handling. Cobots are ideal for automating repetitive or ergonomically challenging tasks, helping manufacturers improve productivity and reduce labor strain.
Cobot welding applications include MIG, TIG, and spot welding for metal fabrication, automotive components, and industrial equipment. Cobots provide consistent weld quality, reduce operator fatigue, and are easy to program for small-batch or high-mix production. Their collaborative design allows safe operation alongside human workers, making them ideal for flexible welding automation.
Use a cobot when you need to automate repetitive, precise, or physically demanding tasks without redesigning your workspace. Cobots are perfect for small to mid-sized manufacturers looking to improve quality, reduce labor costs, and increase throughput. They’re especially useful in applications like sanding, welding, assembly, and inspection where human-robot collaboration enhances efficiency.
A cobot is used to automate tasks traditionally performed by humans, such as sanding, welding, assembly, machine tending, and inspection. Designed to work safely alongside people, cobots improve consistency, reduce workplace injuries, and boost productivity. Their ease of programming and flexible deployment make them ideal for manufacturers seeking scalable automation.
