Robotic welding workcell integrates safety enclosure

December 12, 2006

The ArcWorld® C-500 workcell from Motoman features an EA-Series Expert Arc welding robot partially enclosed by a cylindrical robot safety enclosure that is integrated with the robot.

This configuration allows the welding robot to access the parts through the opening in the front of the enclosure while enabling the operator to work safely in close proximity to the robot, because the safety enclosure wraps around the rear of the robot.

Two new MHTH headstock positioners with 4.3-in.-dia. through-holes for tooling connections are integrated into the robot riser, minimizing the footprint. MHTH positioners are available with 661.5-, 1,323-, or 1, 984.5-lb. payloads. Additional servo positioners can be added to provide multiaxis tilt/rotate or skyhook units. Bearings are reinforced to support overhung loads. The workcell accommodates parts and tooling with a span of 39.4 in. and a diameter of 43.3 in.

High-speed, powered roll-up doors safeguard the operator from the robot station during welding. These doors are activated by a single cycle start button. Cycle times are reduced because the robot can move to the next station without waiting for a positioner to index.