In the Wandres technical research center, endurance tests are conducted with a multi-axis robot, which inspects the cleaning quality and results of the special brush in different surface structures. The linear-brush robot is ideal for cleaning complex geometrical shapes, which are usually not accessible with alternative methods. Edges and beads can be optimally cleaned with appropriate programming. The travel speed of the robot amounts to about 300 to 400 mm/s.
Both cyclic and continuous operations are possible. Linear-brush robots are used mainly in primer and top coat lines in the automotive industry.
But plastic parts such as bumpers can also be cleaned as a preliminary measure to the painting before the flame impingement during the process. Basis of the operation is the patented "Ingromat" process of the company. It is a special damp mopping process.

The 6-axis robot has now been operating at the technical research centre for over two and a half years. "Originally, all robot cables were protected against mechanical damage by protective hoses provided at the factory," recalls Martin Weber. "But this didn't work. They were constantly torn or frayed, resulting in the entire test plant coming to a standstill. Therefore, we had to look for a technical solution that protects the various cables safely and permanently. " In almost all the Wandres cleaning systems for the various industries, energy chains® from the comprehensive modular kit are used. This modular kit for virtually any energy supply includes about 80,000 components. In this case, all six axes are equipped with various three-dimensional moving energy chains®, specifically designed for demanding robotic applications.

In the circular movement of the axis 1, the axis of rotation, a "twisterchain®" demonstrates reliability.
This spiral-shaped modular energy supply system is suitable for circular movements up to 540° and can be configured online. On the axes 2 to 6, the multi-dimensionally moving energy supply systems from the large "triflex® R" family display their strengths. The quick-mounting hose packets for the robot industry reduce downtimes, provide stability and safety; from large welding robots to small palletising robots. Due to its round design, the chain glides over the outer contour of the robot and doesn't get wedged or hooked. Moreover, the smooth inner contour extends the lifetime of the routed cables many times over.

By its modular design with individual elements, the multi-dimensional movable "triflex® R" robot chains can always be adjusted in length at any time. Shortening and lengthening is possible at any point. Martin Weber of Wandres: "As we conduct new tests or the requirements of our customers vary, it is important to have the ability to adjust the energy supply systems easily. " Even the replacement or retrofitting of a single cable, or an entire cable packet on the robot can be done quickly and easily because the chains can be rapidly filled from the outside.

The 6-axis robot in the technical research centre is at work day and night. Martin Weber: "The energy supply systems must at all times withstand the most varied movement sequences of the linear brush. " In addition, there is the multitude of stored programs. Generally, the batch size 1 prevails in the painting line of the automotive industry. As part of the simulation, Wandres therefore tests different software solutions, which in turn have an impact on the movements of the robot.