ABB Robotics has added four models to its line of large robots. These robots allow for payloads of 150-310 kg. The robots’ modular design provides 22 variants from which customers can choose to ensure they pick the best solution for their application needs. Eleven of these variants come with ABB’s LeanID DressPack, which eliminates swinging cables and supports off-line programming. Key features of the robots include:
- reach that ranges from 2.5 m to 3.2 m
- sustainable production energy savings up to 20%
- high motion control accuracy
- well suited for complex tasks
- repeatability with minimum of 0.03 mm deviation.
Control Technology Benefits Accuracy, Energy Savings
Integration of ABB technology enables the robots to achieve energy savings as well as provide a high level of accuracy during movements.
Among the technologies used with the robots is ABB’s OmniCore controller, which helps to achieve energy savings up to 20%. A lighter-weight design also benefits their energy efficiency as there is less mass to move and thus less energy required during operation. The OmniCore technology provides a high level of motion control accuracy as well, benefiting productivity and efficiency as there is better assurance that work is completed correctly the first time, therefore reducing the need for rework and the time and costs associated with it.
According to Marc Segura, president of ABB’s Robotics Division, sustainable production is a major priority for automotive manufacturers today “with 78% of companies identifying it as important to their business and 77% identifying it as a priority for their customers1.
“ABB’s four new robots offer 22 variants and energy savings of up to 20%, responding to our customers’ needs; offering more choice and greater flexibility for more sustainable production. These new robots will help our customers build resilience across a range of industries including automotive, general manufacturing, foundry, food and beverage and logistics,” he said in ABB’s press release announcing the addition of the four energy-saving robots.
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Robots Meet Needs of Automotive Manufacturers
The robots are also equipped with ABB’s TrueMove and QuickMove motion control technology that allow them to achieve repeatability with a minimum of 0.03 mm deviation.
According to ABB, the robots’ accuracy and repeatability capabilities make them suitable for use in completing complex tasks such as spot welding, laser welding, screwdriving and riveting, all of which are key tasks in automotive manufacturing. The robots’ ability to do these tasks helps manufacturers achieve high-quality assembly, ABB states in its press release.
Joerg Reger, managing director of ABB Robotics’ Automotive Business Line, said in the company’s press release that the robots can perform tasks such as high-precision car body assembly and spot welding and enter restricted areas within a vehicle to install seats or dashboards.
In addition, he said the added range of robots can benefit manufacturers that are producing electric vehicles (EVs). “As manufacturers ramp up production of EVs and batteries, they can choose from a wide range of ABB robots to ensure they have the right variant to handle batteries of varying sizes, from individual cells and modules to complete packages.”
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