M Series Robots Can Carry 500 kg

 Kawasaki will launch its M Series of heavy-duty industrial robots, featuring the largest payload capacity yet, in early January. The “M” stands for maximum.

 In a simultaneous global release, Kawasaki introduced three models: the basic MX500N, with a payload of 500 kg; the MX420L, with a 420 kg payload and 250 mm additional reach; and the MX350L, with a 350 kg payload and 500 mm additional reach. The lineup is interchangeable, allowing users to upgrade as needed when refitting the production process.

 The Kawasaki M Series uses a new type of link mechanism (patent pending) for the JT3 upper and lower axes of the arm, eliminating the big counterweights. This enables less interference around the robot itself. All six axes of each robot are driven with identical motors for interchangeability and have a higher wrist torque.

 The M Series is applicable to a variety of applications in which large and heavy items must be transferred, such as the conveyance of car bodies between different stages of the production process, the handling of large jigs in the automotive industry, the handling of large casting and building materials in various industries, and the handling of large electrical household appliances.