ABB has introduced its highest payload, multipurpose industrial robot, the IRB 8700. The company claims this robot has a reach of 3.5 metres and is capable of handling a payload of up to 800kg (1,000kg with the wrist down; 630kg with LeanID).
The IRB 8700 has only one motor and one gear per robot axis. In addition, there are no gas springs; only a reliable counterweight and mechanical springs for counter balancing. The company says these design elements mean the robot has fewer components and is able to deliver short cycle times and higher accuracy.
