Munich, Germany (June 21, 2016) - ABB Robotics today unveiled its latest compact robot for arc welding and machine tending, the IRB 1660ID. The most versatile robot in the mid-size class, the new robot’s Integrated DressPack makes it easier to program and simulate predictable cable movements, creates a more compact footprint and reduces maintenance costs by 50 percent thanks to reduced wear and tear on cables.

“Our aim from the beginning was to deliver a robot that offers superior and consistent quality in arc welding - as well as a fast, agile and reliable machine tending solution,” explains Dr. Hui Zhang, Head of Global Product Management, ABB Robotics.

“This robot will allow our customers to increase productivity, deliver better work piece quality and reduce cycle times.”

The IRB1660ID’s compact, hollow wrist with Integrated DressPack is ideal for applications requiring work in tight spaces such as arc welding and machine tending.

“As a direct result of close collaboration with our customers, the IRB 1660ID also includes a new generation of accurate, efficient and reliable motors,” adds Zhang. “We spent a great deal of engineering effort making the robot as rigid as possible to better protect it, and to equip it for the confined spaces in which it is designed to operate.”

The IRB 1660ID can handle payloads up to 6 kg and has a reach of 1.55 meters.

Further information for editors:
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 140,000 people.
 

ABB Robotics is a leading supplier of industrial robots - also providing robot software, peripheral equipment, modular manufacturing cells and service for tasks such as welding, handling, assembly, painting and finishing, picking, packing, palletizing and machine tending. Key markets include automotive, plastics, metal fabrication, foundry, electronics, machine tools, pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries. A strong solutions focus helps manufacturers improve productivity, product quality and worker safety. ABB has installed more than 250,000 robots worldwide.

All ABB Robotics' products are fully supported by the ABB Robotics’ global sales and service organization in 53 countries and over 100 locations.
Visit www.abb.com/robotics for further information. For more information please contact:

Product Information
Per Loewgren per.lowgren@se.abb.com
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