The new KR FORTEC ultra family: ultimate power, compact design

The robots of the KR FORTEC ultra family set new standards in the heavy payload range from 480kg to 800kg. Ideally rated for high payloads and moments of inertia, they especially meet the new requirements of the electromobility sector.

The new KUKA KR FORTEC ultra family includes five robot variants – each ideally suited to a specific application. The KR 800, for example, handles payloads up to 800kg. The two KR 480 variants reach up to 3,700mm. The High Inertia variants of the KR 640 and KR 560 increase the maximum permissible mass moment of inertia significantly with extended grippers.

One feature of the new KR FORTEC ultra family of robots is its double link arm, a design that reduces weight while it ensures high stiffness and accuracy. This reduces the use of materials, which results in higher dynamic performance, optimal cycle times, less energy consumption, and a lower CO2 footprint.

Strong, extremely compact and light

“To cover a payload range of 800kg and high mass moments of inertia, customers of other manufacturers must settle for robots in the next payload class up, which are significantly heavier and more cost-intensive to purchase and maintain,” said Wolfgang Bildl, Portfolio Manager at KUKA.

With a first-class power-to-weight ratio, the new KR FORTEC ultra family eliminates these drawbacks.

Best values for MTBF and energy consumption add up to significantly reduce operating costs

The very high ‘Mean Time Before Failure’ (MTBF) of up to 400,000 hours offers customers low spare parts costs and high availability. Furthermore, the robots of the new KR FORTEC ultra family meet all customer upkeep requirements, with very good component accessibility and ease of maintenance and repair. For example, these robots need only three forms of maintenance: oil changes, visual inspection, and lubrication of the cable set and the bearings on the counterbalancing system.

Intelligent modular concept for optimal lifecycle performance

The KR FORTEC ultra modular system focuses on the use of as many shared parts as possible within the robot family, including castings, motors, and gear units. This helps minimise the cost of stocking spare parts and standardise maintenance processes.

Newly developed equipment and extensions

KUKA is also launching a new high-performance linear unit – the KL 5000 – to increase robot workspace. With a standard length of up to 31m, it offers great flexibility in system design, including extensions and up to four robots per unit. Modular segments enable easy weld-free integration. The automatic lubrication system reduces maintenance work and increases availability.

Another highlight is the new energy supply system with a new K-pipe and a modified interface on axis 2. This development offers impressive durability and minimised wear, combined with a smaller disruptive contour, simplified maintenance and exchange, and customisation to meet various requirements. Coordinated equipment saves time and cost during integration.

For more updates on the industry and smart tech, check out IoT Insider’s, smart homessmart cities and news pages or our sister site, Electronic Specifier! Plus, you can delve deeper by commenting below or visiting our LinkedIn page.