Kuka Upgrades Robotics for Food Processing Industry

At last week’s Pack Expo, Kuka Robotics announced new options for its robots designed for packaging and palletizing, adding features that make them capable for food-service applications.

 The robots, including the KR 40 PA, KR 50 PA, KR 100-2 PA, KR 180-2, PA and KR 150, offer three versions, including a 2-axis packaging solution, a 4-axis palletizing solution, and a 6-axis version that incorporates both palletizing and handling. The new Food Series option includes four features:

? a robot arm IP-65 protection rating;

? food grade oil in the robot reducers

? USDA certifiable white robot coating selected to withstand common industry sanitizers;

? and a stainless steel robot control cabinet.

“The new Food Series option allows Kuka robots to meet the requirements of the food industry. The robots now have the ability to operate in wet environments, and common industry sanitizers are an important requirement of our food processing customers,” said Stuart Shepherd, president of Kuka Robotics, in a statement.

 The company’s 4, 5 and 6 axis robots range from 5kg to 1000kg payloads, and 635mm to 4000mm reach, all controlled from a common PC-based controller platform. Kuka’s customers are in a variety of industries, including appliance, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, logistics, food, pharmaceutical, medical, foundry, and plastics.