From Manual Strain to Smart Automation in Steel Grinding
Peters Stahlbau adopted the EasyGrinder robotic system to meet rising surface quality demands and overcome the limits of manual grinding. The solution improved consistency, reduced costs and physical strain on workers, and enhanced overall efficiency and competitiveness.
Based in Itterbeck, Germany, Peters Stahlbau employs around 180 people and delivers high-quality steel structures for industry, commercial construction and large-scale projects throughout Europe. The company combines decades of experience with modern production technology and positions itself as a strong partner for complex construction projects with demanding quality standards.
"Susi" delivers consistent SSPC level SP5/SP11 quality and operates without fatigue, even across multiple shifts.
Many contracts involve higher requirements for surface preparation -- particularly for quality level SSPC-SP5/SP11.
"The requirements for finishing quality have increased significantly in recent years," emphasizes Frank Evers, workshop manager at Peters Stahlbau. For SSPC-SP5/SP11 level components, all edges must be rounded to a minimum radius of 2 mm (0.08 inches), and the hardened heat-affected zone must be completely removed. When done manually, this process is time-consuming and physically demanding. As production volumes increase, maintaining consistent quality becomes extremely difficult.
When manual processes reach their limits
Removing cutting burrs, rounding edges and removing the heat-affected zone are among the most demanding grinding tasks in steel construction. This becomes particularly evident in shift operation, where it is challenging to maintain consistent quality over time.
The EasyGrinder uses a vertical grinding disc to precisely remove the heat-affected zone, ensuring first-class grinding results.
In addition to the physical strain, reproducibility was a key concern. Quality deviations cost time, material, and margin.
Choosing the EasyGrinder
Peters Stahlbau consciously chose the Teqram EasyGrinder.
Teqram develops practical robotic solutions with integrated AI. The focus is on simple integration, intuitive operation, and consistently reproducible results. With systems such as the EasyGrinder, Teqram supports steel construction companies in economically automating manual grinding processes and safeguarding quality in the long term.
Thanks to multiple pallet positions, the EasyGrinder processes different components with ease and offers a high degree of autonomy.
The easy integration into existing processes, the fact that no robot programming is required, and its intuitive operation directly by the machine operator were the decisive factors for Peters Stahlbau choosing Teqram. The robot fit seamlessly into the production process and was productive without a long start-up phase. On the factory floor, the new "colleague" was quickly given a name: Susi -- a clear sign of strong acceptance within the team.
Consistent quality and clear economic benefits
In addition to stable quality, the EasyGrinder also offers clear economic advantages.
"The robot uses grinding discs completely down to the backing pad -- a result that is difficult to achieve manually," added Evers.
Space-saving and well designed: Peters Stahlbau optimizes the EasyGrinder's footprint with a specially developed platform.
In manual grinding, declining force often leads to the premature replacement of discs. The grinding robot significantly reduces the consumption of grinding materials and greatly extends the service life of standard angle grinders. At the same time, it enables predictable cycle times and stable processes.
Ergonomics as a strategic factor
A key advantage is the noticeable reduction in physical strain on employees. Heavy grinding tasks are noticeably reduced. Amidst a skilled labor shortage, this represents a decisive competitive advantage. With the successful integration of the EasyGrinder, Peters Stahlbau is strengthening its efficiency and competitiveness in a sustainable way.
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