In an era where industries demand higher speed, accuracy, and sustainability, ASEA’s sister company INTEL Engineering is breaking new ground with the launch of its autonomous robotic laser-cleaning technology. This breakthrough redefines how industrial surfaces are cleaned and prepared. Designed for high-performance industries such as wind energy, rail, and aerospace, the system delivers a non-contact, chemical-free cleaning solution that not only increases efficiency but also aligns with broader environmental and cost-reduction goals.
Revolutionizing surface preparation with robotic laser-cleaning technology
This new technology is not a concept, it’s already operational, and it’s solving problems that conventional methods can’t. This robotic laser-cleaning technology removes rust, release agents, paint, and other contaminants from large components with laser precision. INTEL Engineering’s system is setting new standards for cleanliness, repeatability, and safety across a range of diverse applications.
What makes this system different?
1. Autonomous navigation in complex spaces
Equipped with advanced sensors and spatial awareness capabilities, INTEL’s robot autonomously maps and navigates through complex industrial environments. It adapts to various geometries and layouts, making it suitable for facilities with diverse surfaces and operational setups.
2. High-powered, tunable laser cleaning
At the core of the system is a powerful, precisely controlled laser that vaporizes contaminants without touching the surface. Unlike traditional methods involving sanding, blasting, or chemical stripping, this non-abrasive process preserves the integrity of materials, ideal for sensitive or high-value components.
3. Adaptive intelligence through machine learning
With built-in AI and machine learning capabilities, the robot becomes smarter with each task. It learns to recognize different materials, contamination types, and optimal laser settings, continuously improving performance and consistency without operator intervention.
4. Built-in safety for industrial environments
INTEL’s system includes robust safety features like automated obstacle detection, emergency stops, and intelligent shutdown protocols, ensuring safe operation alongside human workers in active settings.
Why does this new technology matter?
INTEL’s robotic laser cleaning technology offers a compelling set of benefits tailored to real operational challenges:
• Higher throughput
Automation dramatically reduces cleaning cycle times compared to manual or semi-manual processes.
• Minimal downtime
No physical contact means less wear on components and no process interruptions for tool changes or cleanups.
• Lower operating costs
By eliminating abrasives, chemicals, and manual labor, manufacturers see significant long-term savings.
• Sustainable operations
Chemical-free and dust-free cleaning aligns with environmental standards and helps companies meet ESG targets.
• Consistent quality
Intelligent automation ensures repeatable, high-quality cleaning that’s difficult to achieve manually.
Industry applications already seeing impact
This groundbreaking robotic cleaning system is already making a measurable difference in high-precision sectors.
Wind energy
Prepping turbine blades without damaging sensitive materials ensures longer component life and improved aerodynamic performance.
Rail manufacturing
Cleaning large car surfaces before coating leads to better adhesion, corrosion resistance, and reduced rework.
Aerospace
Precision surface treatment reduces the risk of structural failure, meeting stringent quality and safety requirements.
The bigger picture: A step toward fully smart manufacturing
This innovation is more than a productivity tool, it’s a strategic move toward fully autonomous, smart workflows. As part of INTEL’s broader portfolio of intelligent robotic systems, the laser cleaning solution represents a foundational capability that can be integrated into larger automated processes, including inspection, finishing, and assembly. By enabling robots to think, learn, and adapt, INTEL, together with ASEA, is helping manufacturers take the next step in intelligent automation.
Partnering for practical innovation
At ASEA and INTEL, innovation is not developed in isolation. It is built through close collaboration with our customers. This innovative robotic solution is a prime example. It was developed together with a key customer, shaped by their real-world needs and operational challenges. As a result, the solution is highly effective and tailored to the customer’s specific requirements, which has been central to its success. Partnering in this way ensures that the solutions we develop not only meet the unique needs of our customers but also deliver greater value, faster implementation, and stronger long-term results. Working closely with our customers allows us to create innovations that are practical, impactful, and future-ready.
Make smart robotics your advantage
Smart robotics is no longer an emerging trend, it is becoming essential for staying competitive.
Want to learn more? Read our blog on smart robotics in the manufacturing industry.
Ready to see it in action?
INTEL’s robotic laser cleaning solution is available now and already transforming manufacturing floors.
Whether you’re seeking to reduce costs, improve quality, or take a serious step toward sustainable automation, this system offers a proven path forward.
Contact ASEA today to schedule a demo or consultation and discover how robotic laser cleaning can elevate your production capabilities.