At EuroBLECH in Hanover, Teqram will present a major enhancement to its EasyGrinder. The AI-powered grinding robot, already used for the automated finishing of cut sheet metal parts, can now also create and finish weld bevels.
This marks another step toward fully automated weld preparation, specifically for manufacturers working with medium and heavy plate fabrication.
From Finishing to Complete Weld Preparation
Over the past few years, the EasyGrinder has proven itself as an autonomous solution for deburring and grinding cut parts, removing burrs and lead-ins, rounding edges up to R3, and cleaning surfaces. With the addition of this new functionality, its application range has been significantly expanded.
In addition to removing oxide layers, heat-affected zones (HAZ), and other residues, the robot can now also independently generate weld bevels. This allows components to be prepared for welding directly after the cutting process – without additional processing steps.
Automatic Programming Based on Product Data
One of the most notable features of the new solution is its high level of automation. Using a geometry file containing weld preparation information, the EasyGrinder automatically generates the required machining program. Manual programming or robot teaching is not required.
According to Teqram, this approach addresses the growing demand for flexible automation in the sheet metal industry. As product variation continues to increase and manufacturers shift toward smaller batch sizes and oneoff production, flexibility is becoming increasingly important. By minimizing programming effort and setup times, automation can be implemented efficiently even in these production environments. At the same time, the solution enables companies to make better use of the expertise and experience of scarce skilled workers.
AI and 3D Vision Automatically Compensate for Deviations
The EasyGrinder combines 3D vision technology with an AI-enhanced controller. Before each machining operation, the actual geometry and position of the workpiece are automatically detected.
This ensures consistent processing quality, even when individual parts vary. Complex contours are automatically recognized and followed without the need for additional programming.
An Attractive Alternative to Traditional Methods
In practice, weld bevels are often created using methods such as manual grinding, nibbling, or milling. Each of these techniques has its own limitations.
Nibbling is mainly suitable for straight contours and typically produces a relatively rough surface finish. Milling offers high accuracy but often requires additional process steps and NC programming. Furthermore, parts usually need to be cleaned and deburred beforehand.
The EasyGrinder combines multiple operations into a single automated process. Thanks to its high processing speed, even larger bevels can be produced efficiently, eliminating additional operations in many cases.
Seamless Integration with Thermal Cutting
For companies processing thick plate, laser cutting, plasma cutting, and oxy-fuel cutting remain among the most efficient methods for producing large weld bevels. These processes are fast and cost-effective for larger bevel geometries, but they also require post-processing. Oxide layers, slag, burrs, lead-ins, and the heat-affected zone must be removed before a reliable weld can be achieved.
The EasyGrinder fully automates post-processing. In a single step, it deburs, grinds, rounds, and chamfers component edges. This is a cost-effective alternative to milling for sheets up to 30 mm thick, or thicker sheets with small bevels.
By combining multiple operations into a single automated step, handling, work-in-progress inventory, and manual grinding activities are reduced while ensuring consistent and repeatable quality.
More Capacity Without Additional Skilled Labor
According to Teqram, the new capability is particularly relevant for manufacturers looking to increase production capacity without becoming more dependent on scarce technical personnel. The EasyGrinder not only takes over physically demanding grinding operations but also automates the handling of heavy plate components.
The robot can automatically pick up parts, position them for processing, and stack them again after completion.
The EasyGrinder handles workpieces weighing up to 600 kg, with dimensions up to 4 x 1 meters or 1.6 x 1.6 meters. Because handling is fully automated, crane movements and manual intermediate steps are eliminated, reducing throughput time and improving operator productivity.
In addition, the automated approach delivers consistent quality and greater process control. This can help reduce scrap, minimize rework, and improve the predictability of production costs. Grinding consumables are also used more efficiently, helping to further reduce operating costs.
Live at EuroBLECH
The new capabilities of the EasyGrinder will be showcased for the first time at EuroBLECH, the international exhibition for sheet metal working, taking place in Hanover from October 20-23, 2026.
Visitors to the Teqram stand will see how an AI-powered grinding robot not only automates the finishing of cut parts but also integrates weld preparation into a single autonomous process.
Teqram can be found in Hall 13, Stand F182.
For more information, visit teqram.com.
