FANUC is expanding its CRX range of collaborative robots. The company is adding three new robots to its product range: the CRX-5iA, CRX-20iA and CRX-25iA. What kind of robots are these?
FANUC's CRX models are collaborative robots. These robots can work closely with humans, without requiring a safety cage, for example. Collaborative robots are often equipped with sensors, so they automatically slow down or come to a stop if a human comes into close proximity. For some time, FANUC has offered the CRX-10iA and CRX-10iA/L, as well as the CR series of collaborative robots. The company is now expanding the CRX series with the CRX-5iA, CRX-20iA and CRX-25iA.
"We see a high demand for collaborative robots in the European market and want to offer appropriate solutions for a wide range of applications. Our cobots are designed to support any type of manufacturer - small or large - to expand their production capacity with the highest reliability," said Shinichi Tanzawa, President & CEO of FANUC Europe Corporation.
Addition to CRX and CR series
The new collaborative robots complement FANUC's CRX and CR series of robots. The CR series consists of collaborative robots and includes the CR-14iA/L, CR-15iA and CR-35iA. The CR series is characterised by its distinctive green colour, which differs from FANUC's other white collaborative robots.
The new CRX-5iA, CRX-20iA/L and CRX-25iA cobots are capable of handling payloads of 5, 20 and 25 kg, respectively. The robots have a maximum reach of 994, 1418 and 1889 mm, respectively. The models are an addition to the CRX-10iA and CRX-10iA/L. The CRX-10iA and CRX-10iA/L are both capable of a 10 kg payload. The CRX-10iA offers a reach of 1249 mm, while that of the CRX-10iA/L is 1418 mm.
Collaborate safely with humans
All models within FANUC's CRX series offer the IP67 protection level as standard. This makes them dust- and waterproof. This also makes the robots suitable for use in demanding environments. The collaborative robots can work safely with people. For example, the CRX models detect external forces and stop if they come into contact with a person or object. This allows people to work safely in the immediate vicinity of the robots, without the need for shields.
FANUC reports that the CRX robots are maintenance-free for eight years. Users can programme the robot themselves and learn processes. They can move the robot manually to pre-record actions. Programming is also possible via a tablet interface with drag-and-drop icons. FANUC reports that the CRX robots can be easily installed without the need for a crane. The CRX models operate with a standard 100V/240V power supply. Power consumption for a 25kg payload is around 400W.
R-30iB Mini Plus Controller
Control of the robots is via FANUC's R-30iB Mini Plus Controller. The controller includes 250 software functions that allow users to configure the robots. The R-30iB connects robots, computers and other hardware via Ethernet. The controller is available in a variety of enclosures with various sizes. This simplifies integration of the controller on the shop floor.
"FANUC's CRX series offers the same intelligent features and reliability our customers have come to expect," says Ralf Völlinger, vice president and general manager of FANUC Europe's robot division. "Moreover, their light weight, easy set-up and intuitive operation make it an accessible robot, especially for novice users."
In the video below, FANUC introduces the CRX series.
FANUC will start shipping the CRX-20iA/L in April. The CRX-25iA and CRX-5iA will be available from June 2022.
Author: Wouter Hoeffnagel
Source photo: FANUC
