Freudenberg Sealing Technologies Propels Humanoid and Industrial Robots

Source: Freudenberg Sealing Technologies

Sealing competency – paving the way for humanoid robots

The requirements for humanoid robots are even more demanding. Their joints and actuators require highly compact, flexible and resistant seals to produce natural agility and block external influences. At Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, materials are already available to allow ball, pivot and rotary joints to operate in very small installation spaces. The company has also developed a range of high-performance seals for the different drive systems used in humanoid assistants. Their electric motors, hydraulics and sophisticated pneumatics cannot function without special seals for power transmission and motion control.

Radial shaft seals – maintaining cobots’ high-performance

Radial shaft seals are key components in robots because they are the interface between rotating and fixed parts. Their job is to simultaneously keep lubricants inside and dirt particles outside the equipment. Especially in the field of collaborating robots, the machines are subjected to extreme mechanical forces: Rapid acceleration, sudden braking and constant rotation exert stress on components. Friction plays a crucial role here. With the help of specific materials and optimized geometries, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies is reducing the effects of friction to a minimum – even at high rotational speeds and low cycle times. Seals in this category also operate with minimal energy losses and low wear. This in turn extends maintenance intervals considerably, which helps to reduce operating costs.

Seals for industrial robots – achieving high robustness and a long operating life

Industrial robots often have to operate under harsh environmental conditions. including high temperatures, dust, water or chemicals. One main challenge is sealing gearboxes efficiently to keep lubricants from escaping and foreign particles out. Freudenberg Sealing Technologies provides the robotics sector with high-performance materials that not only resist mechanical wear but aggressive media as well. These sealing and shock-absorbing solutions help to keep robotics systems running in demanding production environments, including those found in the food industry or in cleanrooms.