Robots are Helping Manufacturers Survive During COVID-19

FANUC R2000ib 125L R30ia Motoman MA1400 FANUC M710ic 50 Motoman HP6 NX100 FANUC Arcmate 120ic
In manufacturing there are always challenges that arise, however, in 2020 manufacturers have faced an entirely new set of obstacles to overcome in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. Government lockdowns, travel bans, supply chain disruptions, and social distancing requirements are the challenges plaguing manufacturers this year. No one was prepared for dealing with a global pandemic this year and it has caused manufacturers to have to quickly react and adapt in order to survive during COVID-19. Industrial robots have been key for helping manufacturers navigate uncharted territory in regard to the pandemic.

In a time when many companies have seen their sales decrease, robotic manufacturers have seen their demand increase. Companies are realizing how valuable industrial robots are during the pandemic. Robots can help companies continue their operations even during lockdowns and social distancing requirements. Industrial robots are autonomous, once they are programmed, they can complete tasks repeatedly. Implementing a FANUC Lr Mate 200id allows manufacturers to continue producing goods regardless of COVID restrictions. Six axis robots eliminate or significantly reduce the need for human interaction which is perfect in the age of social distancing. Many manufacturing facilities are not setup for social distancing with tight workspaces. Integrating robots on production lines complies with COVID restrictions and keeps your employees safe from the virus.

By automating with industrial robots for manufacturing, companies no longer need to worry about COVID outbreaks occurring at their facilities. A COVID outbreak could cause entire facilities to have to halt productions for up to two weeks, which would be extremely costly. Deploying articulated robots for manufacturing eliminates the risk of facility shutdowns. The FANUC M20ia can keep a robotic assembly going without much need for human interaction.

Not only is the pandemic causing issues in regard to social distancing restrictions, but disruptions in supply chains and consumer demands have affected revenue. With the uncertainty and sudden changes of the pandemic, many manufacturers are looking for ways to cut costs. One of the top reasons for robotic automation is to reduce costs. Robots prevent material waste, reduce cycle times, and increase productivity. In addition, they do not need a salary or benefits, helping manufacturers reduce their costs overall. With fluctuations in sales caused by travel restrictions, shutdowns, and lower consumer demand it is extremely important for companies to reduce their expenses. Implementing a Motoman MA1400 for robotic arc welding will reduce costs significantly, helping manufacturers stay afloat during the fiscal challenges of COVID-19.

There are some manufacturing processes that cannot be completely automated through robots alone, which is where cobots come in. Collaborative robots were already one of the robotic trends in 2020 to watch for and the pandemic has only accelerated that trend. Manufacturing processes that still need human workers can benefit from the addition of cobots during Coronavirus. Cobots can directly assist workers with production related tasks, keeping employees distanced from one another. For tasks requiring two people, one person can be substituted for a cobot, allowing manufacturing to continue without the risk of COVID transmission. The Universal UR10 features collision sensors and rounded edges allowing it to safely interact with humans. Cobot and human collaboration is combating the obstacles when it comes to manufacturing during a global pandemic.

Robots Done Right is the place to start when it comes to used robots. Contact us if you are interested in buying or selling a used robot.