Backwards-bending six-axis robot has 3.9m reach

Boasting a reach of 3.9m, the IRB 6650S is capable of full vertical and horizontal stroke motion – as well as providing increased reach forward and down. With virtually no footprint, the shelf-mounted robot provides ample space to handle large parts – thereby enabling shorter cycle times to be achieved.

Post-process tasks in parallel

The IRB 6650S is an attractive alternative to a linear, three-axis robot, as would conventionally be used in injection moulding applications. Based on six-axis technology, the robot is said to be superior in terms of versatility, reach and precision - qualities that combine to minimise cycle times and optimise product quality. The IRB 6650S is excellent for large injection moulding machines requiring over 1000 tons of clamping force. The flexibility of the six-axis robot means there is no idle time between shoots, facilitating post-process applications such as flaming, sprue cutting, tape dispensing and assembly operations. This allows plant designers to reduce the number of downstream stations and decrease plant throughput times.

"What takes two or more downstream processes with a linear robot, can all be done in parallel at the injection-moulding station using the IRB 6650S," says Tore Lindström, segment manager for plastics at ABB in Västers, Sweden.

Built for productivity

In contrast to a conventional robot, a shelf robot has its principal working envelope below the foot. The arm and wrist design of the IRB 6650S facilitates easy entry into the injection-moulding machine for part extraction, while the combined ability to reach 2624mm below its base adds to the robot's flexibility. This makes it possible to mount the robot over the injection-moulding machine - an important factor, along with the backwards-bending ability, in saving valuable space.

To increase productivity even more, the IRB 6650S can work between two injection-moulding machines from its shelf-mounted position. The IRB 6650S is a backwards-bending, steam-washable robot, with optional IP67 classification, available in three versions - with a reach of 3.9m 3.5m or 3.0m and a payload of 90, 125 or 200kg.

A safe investment

The IRB 6650S comes with a number of safety features. In particular, Collision Detection - which reduces collision force substantially – is especially useful for robots handling high payloads. Used for serving injection moulding machines, Collision Detection provides extra protection against the damage of moulds and tools.