Coventry-based
Fanuc UK Ltd has boosted its extensive range of robots with the introduction of the new M-950iA/500, a large and heavy-payload industrial robot which ‘brings greater versatility to lifting and handling operations’. The new robot features a wide motion range due to its serial-link configuration, which negates any interference of the main J3 arm with the J2 arm due to the absence of a supporting mechanism.
The J3 axis can rotate 395deg and is supported by a payload of 500kg, has a reach of 2,830mm and features an ultra-strong three-axis wrist with high torque and high inertia. The superior strength and versatility of the Fanuc M-950iA/500 makes it particularly suited to the automotive industry, for applications such as handling large castings, including engine blocks, electric vehicle (EV) batteries or car body panels, as well as friction stir welding, drilling and riveting.
Process flexibility comes courtesy of the robot’s J3 arm, which can stand above and rotate backwards of the robot itself. The J3 axis rotation of 395deg is 75% greater than the 224deg offered by the comparable M-900iB/360 parallel-link robot. A larger operating area therefore means the new robot can be operated in various layout configurations in line with specific customer requirements. Furthermore, Fanuc’s iRVision fully-integrated visual detection system and various intelligent features make it easy to diversify between different product lines.
The three main axes (J1-J3) of the M-950iA/500 move at up to 100deg per sec thanks to Fanuc’s AC servomotor drive system, making it a fast and strong option for heavy part lifting, heavy palletising/packaging and demanding material handling operations. Positioning accuracy is ±0.08mm and a Fanuc Accuracy and Stiffness Enhancement Option is also available for applications that require even higher precision or where external forces are likely to impact the robot.
In addition to the user-friendly Fanuc iPendant as a teaching device, the M-950iA/500 connects to the company’s R-30iB Plus controller with FANUC iHMI set-up guides for programming and large memory capacity.