New generation spot welding robot

New generation spot welding robot

Keywords Fanuc, Spot welding, Robots

For body-in-white and other spot welding applications, Coventry-based Fanuc Robotics has just introduced the new generation R-2000i robot (see Plate 1). This machine offers a high cost/performance ratio coupled with exceptional standards of reliability.

By using the latest in CAD and finite element analysis, the overall weight of the robot has been reduced by 10 per cent when compared with the previous model. Less weight means less inertia and higher speeds. The design improvements have also led to a significant increase in maximum payload of 27 per cent up to 165kg.

 Plate 2 The Cimetrix Open Development Environment (CODE) software is a complete off-line/on-line package for modelling, developing and controlling the machine

Another significant improvement is the distance between the J5 rotation centre and the wrist flange – where the end of arm tooling is mounted– has been reduced by 25mm. This is significant because it reduces the bending movement by over 10 per cent. Any gains at the end of arm translate into improved performance.

The load moment at the wrist is a measure of the practical strength of the robot. This has been increased by 10 per cent on both the J4 and J5 axes, while the J6 has increased a staggering 22 per cent.

The overall working envelope of the robot remains the same as its predecessor with a maximum reach of 2,650mm.

According to Fanuc this new generation machine gives users the option of increasing the sophistication and hence weight of the end of arm tooling. Alternatively, the improved rigidity and reduced inertia can be exploited in faster operating speeds and increased productivity.

For further information, please contact: Fanuc Robotics (UK) Limited, Seven Stars Industrial Estate, Wheler Road, Coventry CV3 4LB, UK. Tel: +44 (0)2476 639669; Fax: +44 (0)2476 304333.