New FANUC heavyweight industrial robot can lift up to 500 kg

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The M-950iA is designed to deliver a wide range of motion with precision—even in tight workspaces. | Source: FANUC

FANUC yesterday introduced the M-950iA industrial robot, which is capable of lifting heavy items including automotive components, construction materials, and electric vehicle battery packs. Fitting between FANUC’s M-900iB and M-1000iA families, the serial-link structured M-950iA/500 offers a wider range of motion than standard parallel-link robots. This offers adaptability for tight workspaces and variable layouts, said the company.

“We’re thrilled to introduce our new robot to the market,” said Eric Potter, general manager of FANUC America Corp.’s Robot Application Segment. “Its design is perfect for rapid and robust performance in heavy part lifting, palletizing, and demanding material-handling tasks.”

“With its exceptional strength and versatility, the M-950iA is set to become a powerhouse for customers seeking adaptable solutions in challenging industrial environments,” he added.

FANUC touts M-950iA agility and accuracy

A high-rigidity design makes FANUC’s latest robot capable of handling payloads up to 500 kg — and its reach of 2,829.5 mm is paired with a broad range of motion on the robot’s J3 axis, allowing it to flip over backward. The system can handle large and heavy workpieces thanks to its ultra-strong and powerful wrist.

The M-950iA is also available with stiffness options to maintain high accuracy even under the external force. FANUC said this makes the robot suitable for friction stir welding, drilling, and riveting applications. 

Features and benefits of the system include:

• 6 controlled axes
• 500 kg (1,102.3 lb.) maximum payload
• A 2,829.5 mm (111.4 in.) reach
• Serial link design with a wide J3 axis motion range
• High-performance servomotor drive system offering positioning repeatability of ±0.08 mm
• User-friendly FANUC iPendant teaching device and R-30iB Plus controller connectivity
• Accuracy and stiffness enhancement options are available for high precision or where external forces may act on the robot

Robot maker expands in Michigan

FANUC America, a subsidiary of Japan-based FANUC Corp., is a world leader in robotics, factory automation, CNC systems, and ROBOMACHINEs. The company said its innovative technologies and proven expertise help manufacturers maximize efficiency and maintain a competitive edge.

In July, FANUC unveiled its 650,000-sq.-ft. (60,386-sq.-m) West Campus in Auburn Hills, Mich. It said the facility expands its total footprint in Michigan to more than 2 million sq. ft. (185,806 sq. m) and is part of its strategic investment to advance industrial automation in North America.

The company‘s new facility includes advanced product manufacturing and customized automation, as well as warehouse space for more than 6,000 quick-delivery robots and tens of thousands of parts.

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