Manipulators

TUMBLAST® Machines​​ ​​| Wheelabrator

Wheelabrator’s Robot, Gripper & Manipulator systems are designed for targeted, automated surface treatment of delicate, complex, or precision-engineered components. These systems combine robotic part handling with high-performance blasting, enabling fine control of coverage, exposure time,and blast angle—ideal for applications where conventional methods may risk part damage or incomplete coverage.

Available in various robotic configurations, including gripper arm,rotating manipulator,and multi-axis robot solutions, these systems deliver exceptional repeatability, traceability, and safety. They are suited for both standalone cells and fully integrated production lines in high-value manufacturing environments.

Manipulator Machines

Robot Gripper (RG)

Robot Gripper (RG)

TheRobot Gripper is an advanced shot blast system that combines robotic part manipulation with high-performance wheel blasting, delivering precise and efficient surface treatment of sensitive, complex, or high-value components. By integrating a fully programmable industrial robot into a sealed blast chamber via a patented membrane seal, the Robot Gripper ensures optimal exposure, control, and protection throughout the blasting process.

DS and DV Manipulator Systems

DS and DV Manipulator Systems

The Wheelabrator DS & DV Manipulator Systems are precision-engineered shot blast solutions for the automated, multi-sided treatment of sensitive or complex components. Designed to hold workpieces stationary while rotating or indexing them through the blast stream, these systems are ideal for controlled peening, cosmetic finishing, and surface preparation of parts that require accuracy, protection, and repeatability.

Application | Wheelabrator

Applications

  • Precision cleaning, roughening, or peening of high-value parts
  • Blasting of delicate or geometrically complex workpieces
  • Surface treatment of castings, machined parts, medical implants, aerospace components, and automotive gears
  • Controlled peening of fatigue-critical features (e.g. gear teeth, turbine blades, valve components)
  • Localised surface prep prior to coating or bonding

Key Features

Multi-axis robots and programmable grippers adapt to diverse part geometries and blast paths

Precisely controls blast stream position, dwell time, and intensity

Non-contact handling prevents part-on-part impact and surface damage

Configurable part holders, pallets, and manipulators for secure and consistent processing

Easily integrated with loading systems, conveyors, and part recognition technology

Supports Industry 4.0 connectivity and traceability with optional process monitoring

Configuration / Options

Robotic Gripper Systems

For automated pick-and-place blasting of smaller parts

Rotating Manipulator Systems

For medium-sized parts with programmable multi-face access

Multi-Axis Robot Arms

For full 3D blasting paths around complex geometries

Custom Robotic Cells

Designed to match exact customer requirements, including inline or batch operation