Six-axis welding robots cut cycle time by 15%

Two 6-axis welding robots operate at speeds 40% higher than previous models and are claimed to reduce welding cycle time by some 15% - while reducing 'air cut' time by 30%.

The robotic division of Yaskawa Electric Corporation, Motoman has introduced two 6-axis robots: the SSA2000 and the SSF2000 'Super Speed' welding robots.

Motoman has increased the speed of the robots' axes by up to 40% compared with the previous models.

These higher speeds can reduce welding cycle time by 15%.

Further improvements reduce process cycle time, including the following.

* Minimized ARC ON/OFF time.

* 30% less air-cut time.

The robots also feature new ARM (Advanced Robot Motion) motor control making the SSA2000 and SSF2000 the world's fastest arc welding robots, said Motoman in a report to manufacturingtalk.

The SSA2000 has a 3kg payload and features the same upper arm as the EA1400N 'Expert Arc' welding robot.

The welding cables are integrated and the welding torch mounted in-line with the turning axis.

This arrangement eliminates cable interference, reduces cable wear and simplifies programming, said Motoman.

The SSA2000 robot is ideal for the following.

* Multiple robot applications with robots working close together.

* Applications with difficult access to parts.

* Applications where there is a risk for interference from fixtures.

The SSF2000 robot has a 6kg payload.

It is similar to the HP6 model and it is designed for arc welding with traditional external cabling and handling applications.

The SSF2000 can be used with vision sensor applications, or with torches that have integrated wire drives (built-in wire feeders).

The Motoman NX100 robot controller controls the SSA2000and SSF2000 welding robots and features a robust PC architecture, Windows CE programming pendant, and easy-to-use INFORM III programming language.

* About Motoman - Motoman is the world's largest robot manufacturer with a production rate of up to 24.000 robots/year.

Motoman has its European headquarters in Kalmar, Sweden and Allershausen, Germany, and is a subsidiary of the international Yaskawa Electric Corporation.

Motoman offers the widest range of robotic products, including application dedicated robots for welding, palletising, handling, painting and clean room applications, with payloads ranging from 3kg to 600kg.

Motoman installs 'turnkey' systems and customised manufacturing systems with the highest level of quality.

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