plastic parts surface finishing comparison for ai robots

一.Preface

Humanoid, collaborative and inspection AI robots have strict requirements on plastic surface performance. Surface finishing affects scratch resistance, EMI shielding, oil resistance, weather resistance and EU RoHS compliance. This article compares 6 mainstream plastic finishing processes, helping overseas robot buyers pick cost-effective solutions for appearance and structural plastic parts.

 

二、Working Features

1. Indoor Collaborative Robot Parts: Frequent human touch, anti-fingerprint, comfortable touch, oil-proof, unified appearance

2. Outdoor/Handheld Robot Parts: Drop-proof, scratch-resistant, UV-proof, waterproof, durable for industrial scenarios

 

三、Process Comparison

3.1  Texture Etching

Mold integrated matte/grain texture, no secondary processing. Low cost, hide injection defects, anti-fingerprint, RoHS compliant. Cannot change color separately. Fit for robot internal structural parts.

3.2 High Gloss Polishing

Mirror/semi-mirror glossy surface, premium appearance, easy cleaning. Easy to scratch and leave fingerprints. Fit for robot decorative panels and top covers.

3.3 Sandblasting

Adjustable frosted matte surface, anti-slip, improve paint adhesion, medium cost. Uneven effect on dead corners. Fit for handheld robot grips and outer shells.

3.4  Spray Painting

Custom multi-color surface, improve anti-aging performance. Poor scratch resistance, easy peeling. Fit for indoor non-contact robot decorative housings.

3.5  UV Coating

High-hardness, anti-yellowing, waterproof and oil-proof, outdoor available, strong adhesion. Higher cost. Fit for humanoid robot exterior parts and outdoor robot shells.

3.6Vacuum Plating

Eco-friendly metallic texture, partial EMI shielding function. High cost, easy wear on touching area. Fit for robot shielding parts and high-grade decorative trims.


Choose proper surface finishing to improve robot plastic durability and reduce after-sales cost. We provide one-stop injection molding and custom surface treatment for global AI robot manufacturers.