DEVELOP’s Manufacturers Guide to FANUC Robots

Industrial robots are transforming factories worldwide, boosting productivity, improving quality, and increasing efficiency. As a manufacturer, choosing the right automation solutions can be a game-changer, and FANUC robots are leading the way.

FANUC offers a wide range of robot models, from high-speed SCARA robots for pick-and-place operations to powerful 6-axis robots for complex tasks like assembly. Renowned for their reliability, performance, and innovative technologies, FANUC robots are a top choice for businesses across various industries.

However, selecting the right robot model is just the first step. To truly harness the power of automation, you need expert robotics integration. This involves seamlessly incorporating FANUC robots into your existing workflows, programming them for optimal performance, and ensuring ongoing support for maintenance and troubleshooting.

DEVELOP has extensive experience in robotics integration, working with manufacturers like FANUC to deliver custom automation solutions tailored to our clients’ unique needs. We can guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose the right FANUC robot for your specific application.

In this guide, we’ll provide a detailed overview of FANUC robots, highlighting their strengths, key applications, and the reasons why they might be the perfect fit for your automation project.

FANUC Company Overview

FANUC’s journey began in 1956 when Dr. Seiuemon Inaba, a pioneer in numerical control, set out to revolutionize the manufacturing industry. His vision led to the development of the first electric pulse motor, a groundbreaking invention that laid the foundation for FANUC’s future success. From automating a single machine to orchestrating entire production lines, FANUC has consistently pushed the boundaries of automation.

Today, FANUC stands as a global leader in industrial automation, renowned for its high-performance, reliable robots that operate tirelessly across diverse industries. Their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a reputation for excellence, with their robots becoming synonymous with precision, speed, and durability.

FANUC offers a comprehensive range of robot models, catering to various applications and payload requirements. Whether it’s a lightweight, agile FANUC robotic arm for intricate assembly tasks or a powerful, heavy-duty robot for demanding industrial applications, FANUC has a solution to meet the diverse needs of modern manufacturing.

Beyond their impressive hardware, FANUC provides a suite of advanced software and integrated solutions that streamline automation processes. Their intelligent robots, equipped with cutting-edge technologies like iRVision (integrated vision), enable sophisticated tasks such as visual tracking, object recognition, and quality inspection. 

FANUC’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions extends to their comprehensive support network, offering global service and training to ensure their customers achieve maximum efficiency and productivity.

FANUC Robot Models and Types

FANUC offers a great range of robots designed to meet the needs of various industries and applications. Here’s a closer look at their primary robot types.

FANUC Articulated Robots (6-Axis)

FANUC’s articulated robots, also known as 6-axis robots, are known for their flexibility and versatility.  The industrial robotic arms from FANUC closely resemble a human arm with a shoulder, elbow, and wrist, allowing them to move with six degrees of freedom. That flexibility allows them to perform complex tasks in confined spaces and reach a wide range of positions.

Key Features of FANUC Robot Models

• High Dexterity: 6-axis robots can maneuver intricate paths and reach challenging angles, making them ideal for applications requiring complex movements.

• Large Work Envelope: They offer a wide range of motion, allowing them to cover a larger workspace and handle diverse tasks.

• Variety of sizes and Payloads: FANUC offers 6-axis robots in various sizes and payload capacities, from compact models for small part handling to heavy-duty robots for large payloads.

• High Repeatability: FANUC robots are known for their exceptional repeatability, ensuring consistent and accurate performance in tasks that demand precision.

• Easy to Program: The 6-axis robots from FANUC are designed for ease of use, with intuitive programming interfaces that simplify setup and operation. Even users with limited robotics experience can quickly learn to program FANUC robots.   

Common Applications of FANUC 6-Axis Robots

• Material Handling: They excel at material handling tasks, such as palletizing, machine tending, and part transfer.

• Assembly: Their dexterity and precision make them suitable for intricate assembly operations, including small parts assembly and complex product assembly.

FANUC SCARA Robots

FANUC’s SCARA robots, including the popular FANUC SR series, feature a 4-axis design with a shoulder, elbow, and wrist joint that allows for rotation and vertical movement. Their compact design and fast cycle times make them ideal for applications requiring speed and efficiency.

Key Features

• High Speed: SCARA robots excel in high-speed pick-and-place operations, significantly increasing production throughput.

• Compact Footprint: Their small footprint allows for easy integration into tight spaces and existing production lines.

• Precision and Repeatability: FANUC robots are renowned for their exceptional precision and repeatability, consistently delivering high-quality results. While this advanced engineering is reflected in their price, the investment is often justified by their incredible uptime and minimal maintenance needs, ensuring long-term productivity.

• Wide Range of Models: FANUC offers a variety of SCARA robots with different reaches, payloads, and speeds to suit various applications.

• Cost-Effective: Compared to 6-axis robots, FANUC SCARA robot pricing is generally more budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for cost-conscious automation projects.

Common Applications of FANUC SCARA Robots

• Pick and Place: SCARA robots are commonly used for pick-and-place tasks, transferring parts between conveyors, trays, and fixtures.

• Assembly: They’re well-suited for small parts assembly, such as electronics assembly and medical device manufacturing.

• Packaging: Their speed and precision make them ideal for packaging applications, including product sorting, labeling, and case packing.

• Inspection: When combined with vision systems, FANUC SCARA robots can perform quality inspections, ensuring products meet specified standards.

FANUC Delta Robots

FANUC’s Delta robots, like those in the FANUC M-1iA series, are engineered for ultra-fast picking and packaging applications. Their unique parallel-link structure allows for rapid movements in a three-dimensional space. Typically mounted overhead, they excel in applications requiring high throughput and precision.

Key Features

• Ultra-Fast Speed: Delta robots offer exceptional speed, making them ideal for high-volume pick-and-place operations.

• Lightweight Design: Their lightweight construction contributes to their speed and agility.

• High Precision: They provide high precision and repeatability, ensuring accurate picking and placement of delicate items.

• Wide Work Envelope: FANUC’s Delta robots have a large work envelope for their size, allowing them to cover a wide area and access parts from different angles.

• Hygienic Design: Some FANUC Delta robots are designed with hygienic features, making them suitable for the food and beverage industry or pharmaceutical applications where cleanliness is critical.

Common Applications

• High-Speed Picking: Delta robots are commonly used for high-speed picking and sorting of small items, such as food products, pharmaceuticals, and electronics components.

• Packaging: They’re incredibly well-suited for packaging applications, including product sorting, tray filling, and case packing.

• Assembly: The speed and precision of FANUC Delta robots make them suitable for light assembly tasks, particularly in industries requiring high throughput.

• Inspection: When integrated with vision systems, FANUC Delta robots can perform quality inspections, ensuring products meet specified standards.

FANUC Collaborative Robots (Cobots)

FANUC cobots are designed to work safely alongside humans in a shared workspace. These robots, such as those in the FANUC CRX series, feature advanced safety features, such as force sensors and collision detection, allowing them to operate without traditional safety fencing. Cobots are ideal for applications where humans and robots need to collaborate closely.

Key Features of FANUC Cobots

• Safety: Cobots prioritize safety with features like force limiting and collision detection, ensuring safe interaction with humans.

• Ease of Use: They’re designed for easy programming and operation, making them accessible to users with varying levels of robotics experience.

• Flexibility: Cobots can be easily redeployed for different tasks, providing flexibility in dynamic manufacturing environments.

• Lightweight and Compact: FANUC cobots are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to move and redeploy as needed.

• Cost-Effective: FANUC robot pricing for cobots is often more accessible than traditional industrial robots, making them an attractive option for businesses of all sizes.

Common Applications

• Machine Tending: Cobots can assist with machine tending tasks, such as loading and unloading parts, allowing human workers to focus on more complex tasks.

• Assembly: They can collaborate with humans in assembly operations, providing assistance with tasks requiring dexterity and precision.

• Packaging: Cobots can assist with packaging tasks, such as picking or packing and palletizing.

• Inspection: Their precision and ability to work alongside humans make them suitable for quality inspection tasks.

• Material Handling: Cobots can assist with material handling tasks, such as transporting parts and loading/unloading conveyors.

FANUC Robot Applications

FANUC robots are deployed across a wide range of industries, automating tasks and optimizing processes for increased efficiency and productivity. Here’s a closer look at some of the key applications where FANUC robots excel.

FANUC Robot Applications in Manufacturing

FANUC robots play a crucial role in a variety of manufacturing environments, automating a wide range of tasks to enhance productivity and free up human workers for more complex or strategic activities. Some common applications include: 

• Assembly: FANUC robots assemble parts with precision and speed, from small components to larger assemblies. Their flexibility and accuracy make them ideal for a variety of assembly operations.

• Machine Tending: They automate machine tending operations, such as loading and unloading parts from CNC machines, presses, and other equipment, increasing efficiency and freeing up human workers for more complex tasks.

• Material Handling: FANUC robots handle various materials in manufacturing plants, including transporting parts, loading and unloading conveyors, and palletizing finished goods. This transforms material flow and improves overall productivity.

• Welding: They perform various welding tasks, including spot welding, arc welding, and laser welding, ensuring high-quality and consistent welds on car bodies and frames.

• Painting: FANUC paint robots provide consistent and even paint application on car bodies, improving quality and reducing waste.

Electronics Assembly

The electronics industry demands precision and speed, and FANUC robots deliver on both fronts.  They’re commonly used for:

• Precision Assembly: FANUC robots assemble intricate electronic components with high accuracy and repeatability, ensuring the quality and reliability of electronic devices.

• Small Parts Handling: Their dexterity and compact design make them ideal for handling delicate electronic components and performing intricate assembly tasks.

• Inspection: Integrated vision systems enable FANUC robots to perform quality inspections, ensuring that electronic components meet strict standards.

• Soldering and Dispensing: FANUC robots can be equipped with specialized tools for dispensing adhesives, and applying coatings in electronics manufacturing.

Food Processing

To improve hygiene, efficiency, and safety, the food processing industry is increasingly turning to FANUC robots for tasks such as:

• Picking and Packaging: FANUC robots pick and place food items with speed and precision, ensuring gentle handling and maintaining hygiene standards.

• Palletizing: They palletize packaged food products, optimizing storage and transportation.

• Material Handling: FANUC robots handle raw materials and ingredients in food processing plants, ensuring efficient movement and minimizing contamination risks.

• Inspection: Vision systems enable FANUC robots to inspect food products for quality and safety, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

Plastics and Packaging

FANUC robots are key to automating and streamlining production in the plastics and packaging industries, where they’re used for:

• Injection Molding: FANUC robots extract parts from injection molding machines, ensuring consistent cycle times and reducing defects.

• Palletizing: They palletize finished plastic products and packaging materials, optimizing storage and transportation.

• Packaging: FANUC robots perform various packaging tasks, such as product sorting, labeling, and case packing.

• Assembly: They assemble plastic components into finished products, ensuring precision and efficiency.

Printing and Labeling Applications

FANUC robots are increasingly used in printing and labeling applications across various industries. Their precision and adaptability make them ideal for automating these often intricate and repetitive tasks.

• High-Speed Precision: FANUC robots can achieve high speeds and accuracy in printing and labeling applications, increasing throughput and reducing errors.

• Flexibility and Adaptability: With their flexible robotic arms and diverse end-of-arm tooling options, FANUC robots can handle various printing and labeling tasks, from applying labels to complex surfaces to printing intricate patterns.

• Integration with Vision Systems: Vision-equipped FANUC robots can precisely locate and identify items for accurate label placement or print registration. This is particularly useful in applications with varying product sizes or positions.

• Improved Quality and Consistency: Automating printing and labeling with FANUC robots leads to improved quality and consistency, reducing errors and ensuring high-quality output.

• Reduced Waste: By precisely controlling the application of inks or labels, FANUC robots can minimize waste and reduce material costs.

Metal Fabrication

In the demanding environments of metal fabrication, FANUC robots are essential for automating tasks like:

• Cutting: FANUC robots equipped with cutting tools perform precise cutting operations on metal sheets, plates, and profiles.

• Material Handling: FANUC robots handle heavy metal parts and materials, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of worker injuries.

• Bending and Forming: They can be integrated with bending and forming machines to automate metal shaping processes.

• Welding: They perform various welding tasks, including arc welding and laser welding, ensuring high-quality welds on metal components.

FANUC Robot Pricing

Being aware of the cost of FANUC robots is an important step in your automation project. While FANUC robot pricing can vary significantly depending on several factors, here’s a general overview of what to expect.

Factors Influencing FANUC Robot Pricing

A few factors influence the final price of a FANUC robot. Let’s break down the considerations.

• Robot Model and Size: The specific model and size of the robot will significantly impact the price. Larger, more complex robots with higher payload capacities generally cost more than smaller, simpler robots.

• Features and Options: Additional features, such as integrated vision systems, specialized end-of-arm tooling, and advanced software options, can increase the overall cost.

• Application Requirements: The specific application and its complexity can influence the robot’s price. Robots for demanding applications may require specialized features that increase the cost.

• New vs. Used: Purchasing a new FANUC robot will typically be more expensive than buying a used or refurbished model. However, new robots come with warranties and the latest technology.

• Integrator Services: The cost of robotic integration services, including installation, programming, and training, can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the integrator’s rates.

General FANUC Robot Pricing Ranges

While providing exact pricing is difficult without knowing your specific needs, here are some general price ranges for different FANUC robot types:

• Small 6-Axis Robots: Starting around $25,000 for basic models.

• Large 6-Axis Robots: Ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on size and features.

• SCARA Robots: Starting around $20,000 for basic models.

• Collaborative Robots (Cobots): Starting around $30,000 for basic models.

The Value and ROI of FANUC Robots

While the initial cost of a FANUC robot might seem significant, it’s essential to consider the long-term value and return on investment (ROI). FANUC robots offer:

• Increased Productivity: Automating tasks with FANUC robots can significantly increase production output and efficiency.

• Improved Quality: Robots provide consistent and accurate performance, leading to higher quality products and reduced defects.

• Reduced Labor Costs: Robots can take over repetitive or dangerous tasks, reducing the need for manual labor and associated costs.

• Enhanced Safety: Robots can improve workplace safety by handling hazardous tasks and reducing the risk of worker injuries.

Contact DEVELOP for a Personalized Quote

To get a precise FANUC robot pricing quote for your specific needs, contact DEVELOP. Our team will work with you to understand your requirements and provide a detailed cost estimate for your automation project.

Programming FANUC Robots

Programming is the key to unlocking the full potential of your FANUC robots. It allows you to customize their actions, optimize their performance, and integrate them easily into your automation system.

FANUC Robot Programming Methods

There are two primary methods for programming FANUC robots:

• Online Programming: With the robot’s teach pendant (a handheld device used to control and program industrial robots), you can manually move the robot and record points or paths. This hands-on approach is often used for simpler applications.

• Offline Programming: FANUC’s ROBOGUIDE simulation software allows you to create and test robot programs in a virtual environment. It’s a method that’s more efficient for complex applications and allows for optimization without interrupting production.

The FANUC Karel Programming Language

FANUC robots primarily use a proprietary programming language called Karel. The FANUC Karel programming language is a high-level language specifically designed for robot control. It allows for complex logic, decision-making, and integration with other automation devices.

Benefits of Karel Programming

• Flexibility: Karel allows for complex programming logic and customization, enabling you to tailor robot behavior to your specific needs.

• Efficiency: Offline programming with Karel and ROBOGUIDE can significantly reduce programming time and optimize robot performance.

• Maintainability: Karel programs are well-structured and easy to read, making them easier to maintain and troubleshoot.

• Advanced Functionality: Karel provides access to advanced robot functions and features that may not be available through teach pendant programming alone.

DEVELOP’s Experience with FANUC Robots

DEVELOP has extensive experience working with FANUC robots, providing comprehensive robotics integration services to manufacturers across various industries. As a leading FANUC robot integrator, we have a proven track record of successfully implementing FANUC robots into diverse automation systems, from complex assembly lines to high-speed picking and packaging solutions.

Expertise in FANUC Robot Integration

Our team of experienced engineers possesses in-depth knowledge of FANUC robots and their capabilities. We’re well-versed in the latest FANUC technologies, including robot programming, vision systems, and advanced controllers. This expertise allows us to design and implement custom automation solutions that optimize your processes and deliver measurable results.

Collaborative Approach to Robotics Integration

We work closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and challenges. Our collaborative approach ensures that we develop solutions tailored to your specific requirements, whether you’re looking to automate a single task or an entire production line.

Comprehensive FANUC Robot Services

As an expert FANUC robot integrator, DEVELOP offers a comprehensive range of services, including:

• Robot Selection and Consultation: The selection process can be complex, but we guide you through it, considering your specific needs and recommending the optimal FANUC robot model for your application based on an expert automation assessment.

• System Integration: Ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with your existing equipment, DEVELOP integrates FANUC robots into your production lines.

• Custom Programming: To maximize efficiency and productivity, we develop customized robot programs tailored to your unique processes.

• Operator Training: Comprehensive training is provided to your team, enabling them to effectively operate and maintain your FANUC robotic systems.

• Ongoing Support: For the long-term success of your automation investment, we offer ongoing support and maintenance services.

DEVELOP’s Expertise in FANUC Robot Programming

DEVELOP’s engineers are experts in Karel programming FANUC robots. We can develop custom robot programs tailored to your unique needs, ensuring your robots operate efficiently and effectively in your automation system. Our expertise includes:

• Developing Complex Robot Motions: Precision and accuracy are essential for complex tasks. We program robots to perform intricate movements flawlessly.

• Integrating with Vision Systems: To enable robots to “see” and make decisions based on visual input, we integrate vision systems into your robot programs.

• Optimizing Cycle Times: For improved productivity, we optimize robot programs to minimize cycle times and maximize throughput.

• Troubleshooting and Support: We provide ongoing support and troubleshooting to ensure your FANUC robots operate at peak performance.

Why Choose FANUC?

FANUC robots deliver exceptional performance across various applications. Their robots are known for:

Reliability and Durability

FANUC robots are built to last. They’re engineered with high-quality components and undergo rigorous testing to ensure long-term reliability and minimal downtime.  FANUC’s commitment to quality is reflected in their impressive mean time between failures (MTBF) rates, which often exceed 100,000 hours. This translates to years of reliable operation, minimizing maintenance costs and maximizing productivity.

High Performance

When it comes to performance, FANUC robots excel across diverse applications.

• Speed: Achieving high speeds that reduce cycle times and increase production output, FANUC robots are designed for efficiency. For example, their Delta robots can perform up to 200 picks per minute, making them ideal for high-speed packaging and sorting applications.

• Precision: Exceptional precision and repeatability are hallmarks of FANUC robots, ensuring consistent quality and accuracy in tasks such as assembly and material handling. With repeatability down to ±0.02 mm, they guarantee consistent results even in demanding applications.

• Payload Capacity: From compact robots for handling small parts to heavy-duty robots capable of lifting hundreds of kilograms, FANUC offers a wide range to suit various needs.

Wide Range of Models

FANUC provides a comprehensive portfolio of robot models to meet diverse automation needs. Their robots come in various sizes, reaches, and payload capacities, ensuring there’s a FANUC robot for virtually any application.  Whether you need a compact robot for a confined workspace or a large robot for heavy-duty tasks, FANUC has a solution to fit your requirements.

Strong Support Network

With a global presence and a strong network of support centers and system integrators, like DEVELOP, FANUC ensures customers have access to prompt technical support, maintenance services, and spare parts, minimizing downtime and maximizing the lifespan of their robots.  FANUC also offers comprehensive training programs to help users effectively operate and maintain their robots.

Advanced Technology

FANUC is at the forefront of robotics innovation, offering advanced technologies that enhance robot capabilities and streamline automation processes.  Their key technologies include:

• iRVision (integrated vision): This advanced vision system enables FANUC robots to “see” and interpret their environment, allowing for tasks such as visual tracking, object recognition, and quality inspection.

• ROBOGUIDE Simulation Software: This software allows users to simulate robot applications and optimize processes before deployment, reducing programming time and improving efficiency.

• Advanced Controllers: FANUC’s high-performance controllers provide seamless integration with other automation equipment and enable sophisticated robot control.

By choosing FANUC, you’re not just investing in robots, you’re investing in a comprehensive automation solution backed by a global leader in robotics technology and a strong support network.

The Future of Manufacturing is Automated 

FANUC robots offer a compelling combination of performance, reliability, and advanced technology, making them a top choice for manufacturers across various industries. However, choosing the right robot is only the first step towards successful automation. To truly maximize efficiency, productivity, and ROI, partnering with an experienced FANUC robot integrator like DEVELOP is essential.

DEVELOP’s expertise extends beyond simply selecting the right robot. Our skilled engineers possess in-depth knowledge of FANUC robots, ensuring seamless robotics integration into your existing systems. We can guide you through the selection process, considering your specific needs and recommending the optimal FANUC robot for your application.

We then integrate the chosen FANUC robot into your production lines, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with your existing equipment. Our expertise includes developing customized robot programs tailored to your unique processes, maximizing efficiency and productivity. This includes expertise in how to program FANUC robots for optimal performance. We also provide comprehensive training to your team, enabling them to effectively operate and maintain your FANUC robotic systems.

As a leading FANUC robot integrator, DEVELOP has the knowledge and experience to help you achieve your automation goals. Our team can assist with optimizing your existing processes, designing custom solutions, implementing and deploying robots, and providing ongoing support to ensure your FANUC robots operate at peak performance.

Ready to explore automation solutions with FANUC robots? Contact DEVELOP today for a free consultation. Our team is ready to discuss your automation goals and help you achieve new levels of efficiency and productivity.

About the Author:

Matt Moseman leads as President of DEVELOP, with a strong foundation from the Milwaukee School of Engineering, where he earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s in New Product Management. Moseman’s career highlights include his pivotal role in founding NodeUDesign, innovating in automation hardware, and driving DEVELOP LLC to the forefront of industrial robotics with a focus on enhancing productivity and efficiency.