When Should You Use a Gantry Robot?
Gantry robots are a common type of industrial robot used for automating manufacturing. These robots feature linear motion that is guided by a track system. The gantry track system is setup above workstations and production lines with the robotic manipulator mounted to the track for an overhead operation. Some gantry systems can be installed below production lines but the most common installation is the overhead setup.
The FANUC M-20ia/20T along with other gantry robots excel at tasks that that require covering great distances. The track system provides extra stability allowing gantry robots to handle bigger workpieces while moving linearly. When gantry robots are implemented correctly, they can be more beneficial than other types of robots. The following is a breakdown of when gantry robots are the best fit for robotic automation and should be used.
Applications
There are certain types of applications in which gantry robots are always a good fit and should be considered. These include material handling, palletizing, depalletizing, assembly, sorting, and part transfer. However, the use of gantry robots is not limited to just these applications, but in general these are the most common. Many of these tasks involve moving and handling parts. The track system of the FANUC M-710ic allows it to move linearly along a production line for quick part transfers.
Large Work Envelopes
Gantry robots are incredibly beneficial when it comes to automating processes with large work envelopes. The track system of gantry robots allows the robotic manipulator to cover great distances. It is also scalable. The track system can be setup to cover a few meters or an entire factory. It can also be added on to, increasing the reach of the gantry robot. With gantry robots, users are not limited by the size of the work envelope.
Overhead Configuration
Applications that can benefit from an overhead configuration or those with limited floorspace should consider using a gantry robot. Many material handling processes are compatible with an overhead robot, like the gantry system. Since gantry robots are typically mounted overhead, they do no consume much floorspace despite their size. The space below the robot is left free for production lines and workpieces.
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