ABB has launched its smallest ever multipurpose industrial robot, the compact, agile and lightweight six-axis IRB 120. Available with a new compact version of the popular IRC5 controller, the robot weighs just 25kg and can handle a payload of 3kg (4kg with vertical wrist) with a reach of 580mm.

The new robot offers all the functionality and expertise of the ABB range in a much smaller package, helping to reduce the footprint of robotic cells. Its size, combined with its lightweight design, makes the IRB 120 a cost-effective and reliable choice for generating high production outputs in return for a minimal investment.

The new model also has a best in class stroke of 411mm and the ability to reach 112mm below its own base. Ideal for a wide range of industries including the electronics, food and beverage, machinery, solar, pharmaceutical, medical and research sectors, the IRB 120 is the perfect building block to introduce cost effective applications for the handling and assembly of small parts – especially where space is at a premium.

Flexible mounting enables compact cell design

To help reduce the footprint of robotic technology, the IRB 120 can be mounted at any angle, either in a cell, on top of a machine or close to other robots on the manufacturing line. The compact turning radius on axis 1 ensures the robot can be mounted in close proximity to its application.

Further enhancing its ability to improve productivity, the IRB 120’s motion control and best in class path accuracy are ensured through the advanced dynamic modelling of the IRC5 Compact controller featuring QuickMove & TrueMove motion control software. Using the new Compact controller with the IRB 120 ensures predictable, high-performance robot motion combined with a speed independent path.

The IRC5 Compact extends the comprehensive IRC5 control family bringing all the benefits of the world leading robot controller. This includes superior path motion, user friendly FlexPendant programming, flexible RAPID language and powerful communication capabilities; and now all with a minimized footprint. In a second phase, the IRC5 Compact controller is scheduled to be released for other ABB robots such as the IRB 140 and IRB 360 Flexpicker, throughout 2010.

New Compact controller is easy and fast to integrate

In addition to the obvious space saving benefits the Compact controller also enables easy commissioning through the one-phase power input, external connectors for all signals and a built in expandable 16 in, 16 out, I/O system. The system also supports the use of RobotStudio for offline programming and Remote Service for on-line condition monitoring. This allows manufacturers and integrators to optimize cell design and helps prevent costly downtime or delays to production.

Supporting consumer electronics, solar and medical sectors

Speaking about the new agile and compact robot, Nicolas De Keijser, Product Manager for ABB’s small robots, comments, “In the development of our fourth-generation series of multipurpose robots, we recognised a demand for a fast and compact robot that could still offer consistent high performance. By supporting the consumer electronics, solar and medical sectors, we are also expanding our product portfolio which will help more manufacturers realise the benefits available from robotic technology.”

Pierre Mikaelesson, ABB’s product expert visiting from Europe will unveil the brand new IRB 120 robot at a product launch for ABB’s Channel Partners in Melbourne next week and is available for additional comments if required by contacting (0)3 8544 0144 (Trish Noonan).

Following this initial launch event the IRB20 – ABB’s smallest ever multipurpose industrial robot can be seen in action at ABB’s new robotics demonstration facility in Melbourne by contacting ABB’s Robotics event coordinator Trish Noonan.

For more information please contact:

Corporate Communications

Leanne Sprlyan, Strategic Marketing Officer

ABB Australia Pty Limited

Tel : 61 (0)8 9456 7996

Email : leanne.sprlyan@au.abb.com

Paul Gekas, Robotics General Manager

ABB Australia Pty Limited

Tel : 61 (0)3 8544 0177

Email : paul.gekas@au.abb.com