Today, as manufacturing technologies evolve at a dizzying pace, robots have become an indispensable part of this transformation. Used in many sectors, from automotive to food, pharmaceuticals to electronics, robots come in various types to meet different needs. Therefore, having knowledge about the right types of robots is crucial for both efficiency and return on investment. So, how are industrial robots categorized, which tasks are they each suited for, and which type of robot should be chosen for which sector? Let’s explore the answers to these questions together.
How Many Types of Industrial Robots Are There?
Industrial robots are classified according to their task definitions and mechanical structures. The most common types of industrial robots include Cartesian robots, SCARA robots, Delta robots, and articulated robots. In addition, there are lesser-known types used for specific purposes, such as cylindrical and parallel robots.
Each of these robots is manufactured with different robot arm configurations. For example, Cartesian robots operate on linear axes, while articulated robots have multiple rotational axes, offering more flexible movement capabilities. Consequently, robot classifications play a critical role in determining which robot is better suited for a particular job. Choosing the right robot for your production line’s needs not only saves on labor costs but also improves production quality.
When Are Delta Robots Preferred?
When it comes to tasks requiring speed and precision, the question of “what is a delta robot” comes to the forefront. Delta robots have a three-armed parallel structure, usually suspended from above, and move very quickly. They provide a major advantage in operations like picking, placing, packaging, and assembly of small parts.
Delta robots are frequently preferred in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, electronics, and food sectors. They can complete their tasks in seconds during fast pick-and-place operations. The most distinctive feature of these robots is their lightweight structure, which allows them to work smoothly and without vibration. Additionally, since they are mounted on the upper part of the workspace, they do not occupy floor space, which saves space on the production line. If your product is small and needs to be processed at high speed, Delta robots are among the most suitable robot types.
Which Tasks Are SCARA Robots Suitable For?
Taking its name from “Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm,” the features of SCARA robots make them ideal for precise assembly, screw-driving, part placement, and testing applications. These robots, which can move at high speed in the horizontal plane, are widely used in electronic production lines.
Among the SCARA robot features, their stiffness in the vertical direction and flexibility in the horizontal direction stand out. This allows the robot to work both precisely and quickly. SCARA robots are very appealing to small and medium-sized businesses due to their compact structure, which takes up little space, and their easy programmability. If you have mass production and repetitive tasks, these robots become indispensable on the production line.
What Advantages Do Articulated Robots Have?
As one of the most well-known types of industrial robots, articulated robots can move with almost as much flexibility as a human arm due to their multi-jointed structure. They are generally classified as 4, 5, or 6-axis robots. The number of axes directly affects the robot’s maneuverability.
Articulated robots are frequently preferred for tasks such as welding, painting, material handling, CNC loading-unloading, and palletizing. They can also be safely used in heavy-duty jobs thanks to their high payload capacity. Another advantage of these robots is their ability to work consistently even in demanding environments. They perform their tasks without performance loss even in dusty, humid, or hot production areas. For this reason, when making the right robot selection for sectors like heavy industry or automotive, articulated robots are often the top choice.
Which Robot Type is Suitable for Which Sector?
Every sector has its unique needs and production conditions. Therefore, when making the right robot selection, not only the robot’s technical features but also the dynamics of the sector should be taken into account. For example:
- Cartesian robots: Preferred for tasks that require linear motion. They are typically used for loading and unloading CNC machines.
- Delta robots: Ideal for jobs in the food, pharmaceutical, and fast-moving consumer goods industries that require high speed and a low payload capacity.
- SCARA robots: Provide great convenience in electronics and small assembly jobs.
- Articulated robots: Stand out in demanding conditions like the automotive and heavy industries for complex tasks such as welding and painting.
Such detailed robot classifications play a major role in investment decisions. Additionally, working with the right robot arm configurations ensures production continuity while also saving energy and time. In short, to get the maximum benefit from robot technologies, it is essential to plan according to your needs.
Industrial robot types vary according to their different structures and task features. Knowing which robot is better suited for which job increases both efficiency and quality in production. When you start with the right robot types, the labor burden is reduced, costs decrease, and processes become more stable. Therefore, before investing in a robot, sectoral needs, workload, and application areas should be analyzed in detail, and the appropriate robot selection should be approached strategically.