Overview
What are Robot Arms / Manipulators?
Industrial robot arms, or manipulators, are programmable mechanical devices designed to replicate the functions of a human arm. These systems consist of a series of joints and segments moved by servo motors and controlled by a dedicated robot controller (such as the FANUC R-30iB or ABB IRC5). Unlike fixed automation, robot arms offer high flexibility, allowing users to re-task the machine for different applications by changing the End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT) and updating the software. They are essential for precision-critical tasks, high-speed material handling, and hazardous environment operations.
Main Manufacturers
We provide high-performance robot arms and spare parts from the two leading global manufacturers in industrial robotics:
- FANUC: Known for their yellow articulated arms and high reliability. Key series include the LR Mate (compact and high-speed), M-Series (material handling), and R-Series (large payload lifting).
- ABB: Industry leaders in flexible automation and motion control. Key series include the IRB 1200 (compact), IRB 2600 (mid-range), and the large-scale IRB 6700 for heavy-duty applications.
Typical Applications
Industrial manipulators are used across diverse sectors including automotive, electronics, and food processing.
- Pick and Place: Rapid movement of parts from conveyors to packaging.
- Arc and Spot Welding: Precise path following using the FANUC Arc Mate series.
- Machine Tending: Loading and unloading CNC machines or injection molding presses.
- Palletizing: End-of-line stacking utilizing high-payload models like the ABB IRB 460 or FANUC M-410 series.
- Assembly: High-precision insertion and fastening in electronics manufacturing.
Selection Guide
Selecting the correct manipulator requires evaluating four primary technical specifications:
- Payload: Ensure the arm can handle the combined weight of the gripper and the workpiece.
- Reach: The operating envelope must cover all pick and drop points without violating the robot's physical limits (singularities).
- Repeatability: For precision tasks, verify the robot's ability to return to the same coordinate (typically +/- 0.02mm to 0.05mm).
- Environment: Determine if you need a standard, IP67-rated (washdown), or Cleanroom-certified model to withstand your facility's conditions.
Replacement & Compatibility
When replacing an existing unit, physical footprint and reach are the primary hardware hurdles. While FANUC and ABB use proprietary programming languages—TP (Teach Pendant) and RAPID, respectively—they can often be integrated into the same PLC environments (using ControlLogix or SIMATIC S7-1500) via standardized communication maps. If migrating brands, ensure your safety PLC logic for E-Stops and light curtains is updated to match the new controller’s safety I/O configurations.
1 product · Fanuc
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a 4-axis and 6-axis robot arm?
Industrial robot arms are categorized by their degrees of freedom (DOF). A 4-axis SCARA robot is ideal for high-speed pick-and-place on a single plane, while a 6-axis articulated arm (like the FANUC LR Mate) provides full 3D range of motion for complex tasks like welding, painting, or assembly.
How do I calculate the required payload for a manipulator?
Payload capacity is the maximum weight the robot can carry at its end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) while maintaining accuracy and speed. When calculating payload, you must include the weight of the gripper, the part itself, and any hoses or wiring. Overloading an arm leads to servo motor overheating and premature gear failure.
What communication protocols do these robot arms support?
Most modern ABB and FANUC robots support standard industrial Ethernet protocols. ABB IRC5/OmniCore controllers typically use PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, or DeviceNet. FANUC R-30iB controllers frequently utilize EtherNet/IP and FL-net for PLC communication. Check your specific controller card configuration for compatibility.
Can I replace a FANUC arm with an ABB arm?
Yes. For example, a FANUC M-20iA can often be replaced by an ABB IRB 2600 if the reach and payload specifications align. However, migration requires rewriting the motion programs (RAPID for ABB vs. TP/KAREL for FANUC) and ensuring the mounting footprints and EOAT interfaces are compatible.
What are the maintenance requirements for industrial manipulators?
Standard industrial robots require routine lubrication of the axes (every 6,000 to 12,000 hours), battery replacement for encoders to prevent loss of mastering data, and inspection of cable harnesses for wear. We stock replacement grease and battery kits for both FANUC and ABB models.