Fanuc has unveiled its new collaborative arc welding robot range, showcasing it at the recent FabTech event, in the US. The CR-15iA and CR-7iA for Arc will be made available to the market next month.
Fanuc is the world’s largest supplier of industrial robots and a leading supplier CNCs, RoboMachines and industrial internet of things solutions.
Fanuc says its new collaborative arc welding robots offer “the same high level of performance that Fanuc Arc Mate robots are known for, including world-renowned technology and proven reliability”.
A built-in sensor allows the welding cobot to work safely alongside people without the need for expensive guarding.
The company also says the new robot is “easy to use, even for those who have never used a robot”. Fanuc’s arc welding cobots are equipped with Fanuc’s ArcTool application software.
ArcTool’s programming interface supports both simple and complex applications, including Fanuc’s advanced features such as Weaving, iRVision, Seam Tracking, Thru-Arm Seam Tracking, and Multi-pass.
Both of Fanuc’s new welding cobots provide six axes of motion for maximum flexibility. The CR-15iA for ARC offers a 15 kg payload and a 1441 mm reach.
The CR-7iA/L for ARC has a 7 kg payload and 911 mm reach. High payload capabilities combined with the large motion range increases system flexibility to process a broad range of parts.
Wire arc additive manufacturing
Fanuc’s arc welding robot family supports newer applications like wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM).
At FabTech, the new Fanuc CR-15iA for ARC cobot equipped with the Lincoln Power Wave R450 robotic power source will perform live welding to build an aerospace jet turbine component.
In the production of the part, the robot deposits material layer by layer, so that only the required material is used.
Compared to traditional machining, additive manufacturing can significantly reduce material costs and waste. In addition, it’s easy to make production changes or build prototype parts as required with minimal time delays.
Fanuc cobots for arc welding features and benefits:
- Large motion range increases system flexibility.
- Easy setup and programming allows companies to respond quickly to customer demands.
- Built with the same quality and high performance as Fanuc’s long-standing line of ARC Mate robots.
- Offers customers the unique ability to work closely with their welding processes.
- Ideal for small and large shops – a compact design and the elimination of safety guarding saves floor space.
- Supports FANUC’s intelligent options, including: iRVision, Thru-Arc Seam Tracking and Touch Sensing.
- Both cobots for ARC offer floor, ceiling and angle mounting options.
- CR-15iA has a hollow wrist for seamless integration of weld package dress outs, third-party utilities, and sensor cables.
- The Fanuc hand guidance function is available for all Fanuc CR collaborative robots. It allows users to teach their collaborative robot by leading it through paths.
- Safety rated contact stop detection and familiar green exterior color.
- Designed to meet the safety requirements of ISO 10218-1:2011 and RIA/ANSI R15.06-2012.
- The latest R-30iB Plus controller features an intuitive iPendant with enhanced screen resolution and more processing capability compared to previous versions.
