controlled and predictable . This predictability is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe working environment .
Bearings also contribute to the failsafe mechanisms in cobots . In the event of a malfunction , the robot can come to a controlled stop which helps avoid injury to human coworkers without the need for extensive safety barriers .
The food processing industry is another area where cobots are making significant inroads . Here , the precision and reliability of bearings are essential not only for the robots ’ performance but also for maintaining hygiene and safety standards . Bearings used in food processing cobots are often made from stainless steel or other materials that resist corrosion and can withstand frequent cleaning and sterilisation .
Advanced materials and coatings
Advancements in bearing technology are also driven by the development of new materials and coatings . For instance , ceramic bearings are gaining popularity due to their superior performance characteristics , including higher resistance to wear and corrosion compared to
In terms of efficiency , bearings reduce the friction between moving parts , which decreases energy consumption and increases the operational speed of cobots .
traditional steel bearings . These properties , and the ability to run unlubricated , make ceramic bearings a possibility for use in cobots , especially in environments that involve high temperatures , exposure to chemicals or where weight reduction is required .
What ’ s more , specialised coatings such as Teflon and graphite can be applied to bearings to further reduce friction and improve their durability . These advancements not only improve the performance and longevity of bearings but also contribute to the overall efficiency and reliability of cobots . By reducing the need for frequent maintenance
and replacements , these advanced bearings help manufacturers achieve higher levels of productivity and costeffectiveness .
SMB Bearings ’ precision bearings for robotics are designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern automation , offering reliability and performance . By working closely with engineers and manufacturers it can provide tailored bearing solutions that enhance the safety and efficiency of cobots — whether that ’ s in automotive assembly lines , electronics manufacturing or food processing .
As cobots continue to evolve , the future of cobots is bright . With precision bearings at their core , cobots like Flippy are paving the way for a new era of collaboration between humans and robots . These bearings ensure smooth , reliable operation , enabling cobots to perform tasks with high precision and safety . The right components , like advanced bearings , are key to unlocking limitless possibilities for cobots and the industries they serve .
To learn more about SMB Bearings ’ precision bearings for robotics , visit its website .
For further information , please visit www . smbbearings . com
Issue 71 PECM 13