"With the second generation of the KR Quantec PA, we have achieved a perfect balance between axis speed and acceleration - for the best cycle times," says Michael Laub, the responsible product manager at KUKA. For example, the robot type with a payload of 240 kilograms achieves 28.3 cycles per minute. "It was also important to us to increase the axis speeds, for example for layer formation during palletizing or long 180° rotational movements."

In order to meet the increased requirements of the consumer goods industry, especially the food industry in the secondary sector, KUKA also offers the palletizing robot in the "Hygienic Oil" (HO) version. All axes, as well as the energy supply system, are equipped with food-grade NSF H1 lubricants. Both the robots in the HO version and the standard models of the KR Quantec PA are designed for the latest KR C5 robot controller from KUKA.

The second generation of the KR Quantec robot family also impresses with its Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) values. The Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of the entire robot mechanics has been significantly improved to 400,000 hours. At the same time, maintenance costs have been reduced by 50 percent compared to previous models: only a visual inspection of the robot, lubrication of the counterbalance bearings and an oil change every 20,000 operating hours are required. This makes the KR Quantec PA probably the best robot in its class.

"A KR Quantec PA is a sustainable investment in the future of production," says Michael Laub. "In combination with the KUKA.PalletTech technology package, the robot enables innovative cell concepts for palletizing tasks, especially with a view to the consumer goods industry." Here, maximum performance meets minimum programming effort - for extremely fast commissioning.