PRODUCT REVIEWS
Heavy payload KR FORTEC ultra robots
The robots of KUKA ’ s KR FORTEC ultra family , in the heavy payload range from 480-800kg , are rated for high payloads and moments of inertia . They are particularly suitable for the new requirements of the electromobility sector , said the robotics specialist , and for manufacturing processes that involve heavy and large-volume components
“ The new KUKA KR FORTEC ultra family includes five robot variants , each suited to a specific application . The KR 800 , for example , handles payloads of up to 800kg . The two KR 480 variants reach up to 3,700mm . The High Inertia variants of the KR 640 and KR 560 significantly increase the maximum permissible mass moment of inertia with extended grippers ,” explained KUKA .
“ We developed the robots of the new KR FORTEC ultra family in close cooperation with our customers . They are our response to the automotive industry ’ s changing requirements with bigger vehicles , heavy batteries and very large components for electric cars ,” outlined Wolfgang Bildl , Portfolio Manager , KUKA .
A striking feature of the new family of robots is its double link arm , designed to reduce weight while ensuring high stiffness and accuracy .
“ This reduces the use of materials , which results in higher dynamic performance , optimal cycle times , less energy consumption and a lower CO₂ footprint ,” KUKA told ISMR .
“ To cover a payload range of 800kg and high mass moments of inertia , customers of other manufacturers must settle for robots in the next payload class up , which are significantly heavier and more cost-intensive to purchase and maintain ,” said Wolfgang Bildl . With a high power-to-weight ratio , he pointed out , the new KR FORTEC ultra family eliminates these drawbacks .
The new energy supply system with new K-pipe and modified interface on axis 2 .
“ The very high ‘ Mean Time Before Failure ’ ( MTBF ) of up to 400,000 hours offers customers low spare parts costs and high availability . The robots meet all customer upkeep requirements , with very good component accessibility and ease of maintenance and repair . For example , these robots need only three forms of maintenance : oil changes , visual inspection
and lubrication of the cable set and KUKA is also launching a new high-performance linear unit – the bearings on the counterbalancing the KL 5000 – to increase robot workspace . system ,” added KUKA .
The KR FORTEC ultra modular system focuses on the use of as many shared parts as possible within the robot family , including castings , motors and gear units . This helps to minimise the cost of stocking spare parts and standardises maintenance processes .
KUKA is also launching a new linear unit – the KL 5000 – to increase robot workspace . With a standard length of up to 31m , it offers flexibility in system design including extensions and up to four robots per unit . Modular segments enable easy , weld-free integration . The automatic lubrication system reduces maintenance work and increases availability .
Another highlight is KUKA ’ s new energy supply system , with a new K-pipe and a modified interface on axis 2 . This development offers “ impressive durability and minimised wear ”, according to the manufacturer , combined with a smaller disruptive contour , simplified maintenance and exchange as well as customisation to meet various requirements . n