Next Generation Positioners for Arc Welding, Thermal Cutting and Metal Finishing

The newest positioners feature improved and increased load capacities, greater accuracy, shorter cycle times and simplified programming.

The next generation of workpiece positioners for robotic applications from ABB (Auburn Hills, MI) improve both load capacities and best-in-class motion control. A full range of nine models include load capacities ranging from 250 kg up to 5,000 kg.

For the two most popular positioners, the IRBP K and the IRBP R, the load capacities have been increased to 1,000 kg. These reliable, robust positioners are designed for manipulating workpieces during applications such as arc welding, thermal cutting, deburring and other metal finishing applications.

Employing the same drive systems and software as the ABB robots, the positioners are very easy to use and integrate, with clear, simple instructions for programming. The axes of each positioner are fully coordinated with the robot during programming and operation. As the positioners operate, the robot system automatically optimizes speed and performance by taking advantage of maximum acceleration.

SHORTER CYCLE TIMES
The new workpiece positioners allow cycle times to be kept to a minimum with dynamic modeling software. The dynamic model automatically compensates for the effects of gravity, inertia and friction. The built-in Load Identification function (Load ID) calculates both the center of gravity and the inertia of the workpiece and fixture.

These calculations ensure fast movements with rapid acceleration, re-orientation and accuracy when following programmed paths. This results in shorter cycle times, increased productivity and consistent high quality of finished parts.

SERVICE-FRIENDLY
These workpiece positioners can also be supplied with all necessary safety equipment and with a modular design and just a few robust moving parts, making them service-friendly units that require very little maintenance.

This new generation of welding positioners is designed as a true extension of the robot to fully optimize welding processes in response to key customers and systems integrators that recommended increasing the positioner load capacities to expand the range of fabricated products the robots can weld.

ABB is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 117,000 people. www.abb.com

ABB Robotics is a leading supplier of industrial robots and robot software, peripheral equipment, modular manufacturing cells and service for tasks such as welding, handling, assembly, painting and finishing, picking, packing, palletizing and machine tending.

Key markets include automotive, plastics, metal fabrication, foundry, electronics, pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries. A strong customer focus helps manufacturers improve productivity, product quality and worker safety. ABB has installed more than 175,000 robots worldwide. www.abb.com/robotics