ABB Robotics offers the IRB 1660ID, a compact robot for arc welding and machine tending applications. "The IRB 1660ID's Integrated DressPack design makes it easier to program and simulate predictable cable movements than standard robots with externally routed cables. The decreased cable wear and damage that also results reduce maintenance costs by 50%, and the compact footprint allows for more efficient robot cell layouts, saving valuable space on the factory floor," said a company spokesperson.
"Our aim from the beginning was to deliver a robot that offers superior and consistent quality in arc welding - as well as a fast, agile and reliable machine tending solution," explained Dr. Hui Zhang, head of global product management, ABB Robotics. "This robot will allow our customers to increase productivity, deliver better workpiece quality and reduce cycle times."
To meet the growing demand for even quality in arc welding applications, the IRB 1660ID features a stronger, more rigid upper arm, with a reach of 1.55 m and a payload of 6 kg. "It is able to accommodate heavier weld torches, and provides improved wire feeding control near the arc to guarantee high volume production," said the spokesperson. "This, combined with ABB's TrueMove technology and the motion process 'Accuracy mode', provides 0.05 mm path repeatability for excellent welding results."
The Integrated DressPack allows the robot to move at maximum acceleration and speed, enabling fast and reliable movements suitable for machine tending applications. The risk of collision in confined spaces is also eliminated, and the combined 1,390° working range of axes 4, 5 and 6 provides enhanced agility inside CNC machines.
"As a direct result of close collaboration with our customers, the IRB 1660ID also includes a new generation of accurate, efficient and reliable motors," added Zhang. "We spent a great deal of engineering effort making the robot as rigid as possible to better protect it, and to equip it for the confined spaces in which it is designed to operate."
For more information contact:
ABB Robotics, Inc.
1250 Brown Road
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
248-391-9000
www.abb.com/robotics