Linear robots built from standard modules

The ERC-E Series of robots are said to cover the entire range of injection molding machines currently used in the plastics processing industry. The small size category (ERC 23-53-E, top) is designed for machines with clamping forces ranging from 40 to 660 tons, the medium-size robots (ERC 63-82-E, middle) are for clamping forces from 300 to 2000 tons, and the large sizes (ERC 94-144-E, bottom) automate machines with clamping forces from 1400 to 6000 tons.

High-precision drive technology with precision-ground and hardened guide rails on sturdy frames reportedly ensures high positioning accuracy at high speeds. Robot movements as fast as 5 m/sec and positioning tolerances of ±.05 mm (small- and medium-sized models) and ±.1 mm (large models) are standard.

High speeds and quick acceleration are standard robot features. Different, selectable levels of performance are enabled by digital drive systems. Extended maintenance intervals and easy servicing are achieved through permanent lubrication of rack-and-pinion drives, use of low-maintenance linear guides, and plug-in limit switches. Digital vacuum monitoring of suction grippers is also offered.

The robot control system includes quick synchronization of robot and machine movements (without additional hardware) through internal bus linkage of control systems. Operation and programming can be done in menu and teach-in mode.

Engel Canada Inc., Guelph, ON
(519) 836-0220; www.engel-ec.com