Güdel Keeps Heavy Duty Robots On Track
The ever-expanding range of industrial robot applications has led to the development and introduction of new models from the worlds leading six axis robot manufacturers that can handle vast payloads of up to 1,300 kg. Although easily capable of manipulating these impressive weights, the horizontal reach of these robots, generally less than 4.0m, can still be a limiting factor in certain applications.
Güdel Track Motion products have always been recognised as a robust and reliable method of extending the work envelope of robot systems, and the company’s latest TMF-5 linear track has been developed to provide this enhanced functionality to the new generation of heavy-duty robots.
Güdel is the only company dedicated solely to auxiliary linear motion for robots and automation, and adding this new TMF module to its heavy-duty range, further reinforces the company’s reputation as a valued partner to the world’s leading robot integrators.
The TMF-5 is currently the only standard module available on the market that can move an articulated robot weighing over six tonnes, with a payload of 1300Kg, and sustain a static payload of over ten tonnes. Working as a fully integrated seventh axis for robots, the TMF-5 opens up new possibilities in a number of production processes. A range of adaptor plates, designed to suit the increasing number of heavy-duty robots now available, maximises the potential for integration with different manufacturers and their respective robot models.
With the capability to accommodate up to four independently driven carriages, multiple robots are able to share the same track if required, delivering the highest levels of utilisation and flexibility for heavy-duty applications. The carriages used on the TMF track have been designed to handle the often-high dynamic loads of a moving robot, including those associated with emergency stop conditions.
The use of hardened and ground helical racks, coupled with planetary gearboxes, deliver the highest levels of positional repeatability (+/-0.05mm) plus smooth and quiet operation. The TMF-5 is also available as an enclosed version to meet the demands of specific operating environments such as those found within a cleanroom.
Available in lengths from 3m to 100m in 1m increments, the optimum track length can be specified for any particular application. Another feature of the TMF track range is that the length can be extended, should this be required to increase flexibility or to future-proof existing installations.
Güdel’s reputation for quality and engineering excellence is clearly evident in the design, the materials used and build standard of the TMF-5 linear track, ensuring high uptimes and a long service life. From a maintenance perspective, the ability to adjust the guide-way rollers from the outside of the unit and the availability of an automatic lubrication system for the rack & pinion, will keep planned maintenance times to a minimum.
Güdel’s linear track range can be found operating within the automotive, tyre, metal, rail, intra-logistics, pharmaceutical, renewable energy, wood and aerospace industries.
Güdel not only provides sophisticated automation solutions but is a manufacturer of high-precision machine components including linear guide-ways, racks, pinions and drives. These high quality components are at the heart of all Güdel linear axes and gantry robots.
For more information, please contact: www.gudel.com
