Universal Robots has unveiled the UR8 Long, a long-reach collaborative robot designed for industrial automation tasks including welding, bin picking, and inspection.
The launch took place September 8 at FABTECH in Chicago, with orders now open and shipping set to begin in October.
The UR8 Long offers the same 1,750 mm reach as the UR20 but with a slimmer profile, 30 percent lighter mass, and an 8 kg payload capacity. Its compact design makes it suitable for space-constrained cells, overhead systems, and gantries.
Jean Pierre Hathout, president of Universal Robots, says: “The UR8 Long is a smart robotic arm that can reach farther and do more than ever before. It’s designed to help people and businesses work faster, more safely, and with less physical effort.
“Whether it’s lifting, moving, or handling tasks that are repetitive or hard on the body, this robot makes the job easier. Its longer reach means it can cover more space, and its advanced features open new ways to automate work that used to be done by hand.”
The system runs on UR’s PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X platforms and supports MotionPlus, an advanced motion control package that integrates with linear axes, rotary positioners, and turntables.
Enhanced freedrive features allow operators to manually guide the arm, simplifying setup and programming.
Designed with welding applications in mind, the UR8 Long emphasizes ease of use and precision.
Will Healy III, global industry manager for fabricated metals at Teradyne Robotics, says: “UR8 Long delivers an easier teaching experience than traditional welding robots, better weld quality than manual welding, and less overall rework, saving time and money.”
Partners including THG Automation, Hirebotics, and Vectis Automation are demonstrating the robot’s welding capabilities at FABTECH.
Marcus Yakawich, product manager at Vectis Automation, says: “The improved features of the UR8 Long enables expansion into new welding and plasma cutting applications; all without sacrificing safety or man-machine collaboration.”
At UR’s own booth, the robot is shown tackling full-bin picking tasks, reaching deep corners with faster wrist joints and compact tool flanges. UR said the design achieves up to 30 percent faster cycle times compared with previous generations.
The UR8 Long also debuted in Europe at Schweissen & Schneiden in Essen, Germany, where partners Smooth Robotics and Lorch Schweißtechnik showcased the robot.
