What is Sealing?

Sealing is the process of creating a protective layer or barrier to prevent the intrusion or leakage of liquids, gases, dust, or other contaminants between surfaces or within a structure.

In industrial and manufacturing applications, sealing is commonly used in:

• Seam sealing: Protecting joints or gaps in products from water, dust, or gases.
• Underbody coating: Shielding vehicles from corrosion and environmental impacts.
• Cosmetic sealing: Enhancing the appearance of products by concealing gaps or joints.

This process involves materials such as rubber, plastic, adhesives, or specialized foam to ensure durability and effective sealing.

In the past, before automation technologies were introduced, sealing was performed manually using handheld tools. Workers often had to handle liquids and materials that could pose health risks.

Today, with advances in science and technology, factories increasingly apply automation to this process. Automated sealing involves using machinery and technology, such as industrial robots, to perform sealing tasks on products or surfaces. Instead of manual labor, automated sealing enhances efficiency, accuracy, and consistency while minimizing human errors.

Automated Sealing Solutions

The continuous development of science and technology has optimized designs while maintaining high efficiency for the sealing process.

Typically, an automated sealing system includes the following components:

1. Framework:
   A robust structure that supports machinery components and ensures stability during operation.
2. Product Jig and Fixture System:
   This system secures the product in place to ensure precise positioning during processing. The jig is custom-designed for each product type, optimizing accuracy and allowing easy replacement when switching products.
3. Robot/Cobot System:
   Responsible for performing the sealing tasks based on pre-programmed instructions. Robots used may include articulated robots, SCARA robots, or delta robots, depending on the specific application. Sensors or cameras can be integrated to monitor the quality of work.
4. Automated Material Feeding System:
   A system that stores and evenly distributes sealing materials, such as fillers or liquids, during the process.
5. Control System:
   The control system acts as the brain of the operation, coordinating the activities of the entire system. It typically includes components such as PLCs, HMI screens, and sensors.

Advantages of Automated Sealing

Automating the sealing process offers numerous benefits, such as:

• High Precision:
  Robots are programmed to apply sealing materials with accuracy and consistency, reducing leaks or errors.
• Increased Production Speed:
  Automated systems operate faster than manual labor, improving production efficiency.
• Reduced Labor Costs:
  Less reliance on manual labor, especially for repetitive tasks.
• Enhanced Workplace Safety:
  Minimizes human exposure to chemicals or hazardous environments.
• High Customization Capability:
  Automated systems can be programmed to handle a wide range of products and sealing requirements.

Applications of Automated Sealing

Automated sealing has broad applications across various industries, including:

1. Automotive and Motorcycle Manufacturing: Sealing vehicle bodies, engines, and other components.
2. Electrical and Electronics Manufacturing: Sealing electronic devices and components.
3. Food and Beverage Production: Packaging and sealing products for preservation and safety.
4. Shipbuilding: Sealing ship hulls and other maritime structures.

Automated sealing represents a crucial advancement in modern manufacturing, delivering enhanced efficiency, safety, and product quality while reducing human effort.