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Overview

Molded Polyurethane for Automation & Robotics Applications

Automation & Robotics

Molded Polyurethane for Innovative Automation & Robotics Applications

Meridian Laboratory’s ML6 polyurethane parts are used in the automation and robotics industry, appearing in everything from pick and place robots and warehouse ladders to welding simulators, automated packaging equipment, robotic studio camera tracks, and vacuum handling systems. They are molded to exact specifications and provide strong grip and sealing without leaving marks. The durable and high-friction urethane provides quiet operation, protects expensive tracks from wear, and won’t deform even after sitting idle for extended periods of time. You can count on consistent performance in industrial settings, every time.

Application & Uses

Common Applications & Uses for Molded Polyurethane in Automation & Robotics

Pick and Place Robots Warehouse Ladders Welding Simulator Automated Packaging Equipment Robotic Studio Cameras and Lighting Vacuum Handling of Electrical Components

Superior Bond Strength Prevents Delamination

ML6 polyurethane covered grippers are used in automated pick and place machines and can be molded to the specific profiles of the parts they come in contact with.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 polyurethane grippers are molded to the exact dimensions, and we frequently mold custom profiles to the grippers as well. ML6 polyurethane leaves no witness marks and is bonded strongly to the gripper base material, preventing peeling or delamination, unlike glued-on alternatives.

Quiet Operation and Long-Term Protection

ML6 polyurethane coated cam followers are heavily used for moveable warehouse ladders affixed to track systems, allowing for quick repositioning to pull products for order fulfillment.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 polyurethane coated cam followers reduce noise during ladder movement and protect expensive track systems from wear. Distinct from other materials, ML6 doesn’t develop flat spots after extended periods of inactivity.

Non-Wearing & Molded to Exact Dimensions

ML6 polyurethane covered idler and drive wheels are used in welding simulators, used as training tools, to repetitively feed and retract weld wire.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 polyurethane covered wheels are non-wearing, durable, and precisely molded to exact tolerances. They provide high friction to drive weld wire without slippage, and are a cost-effective alternative to ball bearings for light duty rolling applications.

Custom Molded & Low Volume Capability

ML6 polyurethane covered drive rollers and grippers are used in automated equipment for a wide array of packaging and assembly applications.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 molded polyurethane parts are made for lasting use in industrial and continuous use applications. Offering high friction without slippage, unlike ground polyurethane rollers. ML6 is molded to specific profiles and supports low volume runs cost efficiently.

Precision Molded for Smooth Movement

ML6 polyurethane drive rollers are used on tracks to drive high end studio camera and lighting to various positions along a rail system.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 polyurethane drive rollers are molded to exact dimensions for excellent total indicated runout (TIR), which prevents vibration or shaking in the cameras. They can be custom molded to precisely fit a track profile and generate zero audible noise during movement.

Urethane for Precise Sealing & Non-Marking

ML6 coated grippers and vacuum chucks are made to specific customer requirements to seal a surface while vacuum is applied in order to gently move components without damage.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 coated grippers and vacuum chucks use soft durometer urethane molded to exact dimensions for an excellent, non-ground sealing surface. They leave no witness marks from contact on delicate parts.

Capabilities

Engineering Capabilities & Services

Engineering & Design Research & Development Precision Machining Manufacturing & Sourcing Mold Making Prototyping Testing & Validation Ongoing Support

Meridian Laboratory provides application-specific design support to ensure every ML6 polyurethane part meets the exact needs of the system it supports. Our team offers expert guidance during initial design phases and can cross-reference and reverse engineer OEM and competitor part numbers to offer direct replacements or improved alternatives for fit, function, and performance.

Application-specific design consultation
Competitor & OEM cross-referencing

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We partner closely with customers to analyze part failures, understand field challenges, and develop improved solutions using ML6 polyurethane. Our ability to formulate custom polyurethane blends allows us to tailor material properties such as abrasion resistance, chemical compatibility, and flexibility to suit even the most demanding environments.

Part failure analysis
Custom polyurethane blends for specific applications

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From one-off prototypes to high-volume production, Meridian Laboratory’s precision machining capabilities ensure ML6 polyurethane parts are manufactured to exact tolerances. With both CNC and manual equipment, including automated bar feeders and precision inspection tools that measure features as small as 0.000027”. We deliver exceptional consistency and repeatability, regardless of part complexity or volume.

CNC and manual machining equipment to support all volumes
Ability to machine 1-off prototypes
Automated bar feeders and parts catching for maximum output
Precision measurement equipment capable of measuring to 0.000027” (0.0006858mm)

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Our in-house manufacturing process is supported by ERP-driven process control, giving full traceability and quality assurance. We offer both low and high-volume production runs, custom laser marking for part identification, and streamlined sourcing to keep lead times short and pricing competitive.

ERP inventory and manufacturing order tracking systems
Custom laser marking
High and low volume production

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All molds and tooling for ML6 polyurethane components are designed, machined, and maintained in-house, ensuring tight control over part accuracy, consistency, and turnaround times. By storing and servicing molds on-site, we support both long-term repeat orders and fast iterations on new or evolving part designs.

In-house manufacturing of all molds and tooling
Storage and maintenance of molds

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Meridian Laboratory specializes in prototyping ML6 molded polyurethane parts, enabling engineers to test fit, form, and function early in the development process. With no minimum order quantities, our process supports quick, cost-effective iterations without the delay or expense of full production tooling.

In-house tooling enables fast turnaround on prototype parts.
Wide range of durometers available for real-world testing
Direct collaboration with engineers for optimized designs

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Parts can undergo rigorous testing and can also include First Article Inspection (FAI) and Certificates of Conformance (CoC), to ensure compliance with application and performance standards. We also perform customer-specific validation tests and material compatibility reviews to confirm ML6 polyurethane meets or exceeds functional expectations in real-world conditions.

First Article Inspection (FAI)
Certificate of Conformance (CoC)
Material compatibility testing
Customer application-specific testing
Prototyping

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Beyond manufacturing, Meridian Laboratory provides continued support through flexible delivery options, product stocking programs, and blanket PO agreements. Our team is committed to long-term partnerships, offering technical assistance, custom packaging, and proactive follow-ups to ensure consistent product performance and customer satisfaction.