New food packaging robots at Pack Expo

The new Food Series Option extends the range of Kuka Robotics with machines specifically designed for food packaging and palletizing applications. The units offer robotic solutions for two-axis packaging, 4-axis palletizing and 6-axis palletizing and handling.

“The new Food Series Option allows Kuka robots to meet the requirements of the food industry​,” said Stuart Shepherd, president of Kuka Robotics Corporation. “The ability for robots to operate in wet environments and common industry sanitizers is an important requirement of our food industry processing customers,”​ he added.

Multi-palletizing products​

Robots that are now available for food industry applications include the company’s KR 40PA, KR 50 PA, KR100-2 PA, KR 180-2, PA and KR150. “The broad range of products on which the Food Series Option is available allows Kuka to be in the unique position of offering a Food Series Product from 2-axis packaging up through multi palletizing products​,” said to Shepherd.

All models include a robotic arm IP-65 protection rating, food grade oil in the robotic reducers and white robotic coating able to withstand common industry sanitizers with US Department of Agriculture (USDA) certification. The machines are also supplied with a stainless steel robot control cabinet.

Controller platform​

The company’s 4, 5 and 6 axis robots have payloads ranging from 5kg to 1000kg and with a reach of from 635mm to 4000mm. All models are directed by a common PC based controller platform.

Kuka Robotics with its parent company Kuka Roboter GmbH is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial robots producing 8,000 units each year and an installed base of 75,000 units, according to the company.

This year’s Pack Expo packaging and processing show is taking place in Chicago between Sunday 9 November and Thursday 13 November. 45,000 visitors are expected to attend the event including more than 6,000 international visitors from over 125 countries.