Featuring a robot and controller system from KUKA Robotics, the latest innovation in robotic metal additive manufacturing (AM) systems from One-Off Robotics made its debut at IMTS.
"The state-of-the-art system is poised to revolutionize the production capabilities of the defense, aerospace, research and specialized production sectors," said a company spokesperson. "With improved speed, precision and flexibility, the system addresses not only the current needs of the market but also lays the groundwork for future advancements."
A KR IONTEC robot from KUKA paired with the company's KR C5 micro robot controller worked in the Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) cell. The robot used Fronius WAAM end effectors with an average deposition rate of 4 kg/hour. The cell prints with steel, titanium and aluminum alloys and enhances production efficiency, reduces waste and maximizes the structural integrity of manufactured components. During the show, the 8' x 10' x 8' cell printed a small rocket nozzle, a large pipe structure with a flat face and a complex combustion/exhaust component, all from mild steel material.
"Whether on the floor, on the wall or inclined, the KR IONTEC, with a 20- to 70-kg payload range, combines a compact design with the largest working envelope in its class for optimal use of space with a small footprint," said the spokesperson. "Equipped with a waterproof and dustproof in-line wrist and protected motors, the robot is also suitable for almost every area of application."
The spokesperson added, "The KR C5 micro robot controller features an industry first compact design, yet it provides the same, if not more, capabilities and storage capacities as full-sized controllers but in a much lighter and approximately 200% smaller size platform."
With an overall volume of only 16 liters and weighing just 9 kg, the KR C5 micro allows users to mount the controller horizontally or vertically in a wall mounted/bookshelf orientation or stack multiple units on top of each other, or with an existing standard 19" rack mount cabinet. Optional mounting brackets for controller fastening allow the controller to adapt to existing industry standard rack mount rails for having multiple robot controllers within a single cabinet. Plus, with a lighter, more compact design, the KR C5 micro is easy to deliver/ship, set up and relocate if needed.
The WAAM technology from One-Off Robotics leverages an electric arc as a heat source and feedstock material in the form of wire, which is melted and deposited layer by layer to fabricate a part. According to the company, this process is not only cost-effective but also efficient in terms of material use, making it a sustainable choice for manufacturing large components.
For more information contact:
KUKA Robotics Corporation
51870 Shelby Parkway
Shelby Township, MI 48315-1787
800-459-6691
robusinsidesalessupport@kuka.com
www.kuka-robotics.com