New igus product makes a splash in the world of robots

Requests by customers for a robolink fit for wet conditions has prompted igus to design one that can withstand rain, showers, and moisture.

The company, which has its UK headquarters in Northampton, has developed its very first water-resistant robolink – a low-cost automation
solution made of polymer and stainless steel.
Adam Sanjurgo, LCA Product Manager at igus, the global manufacturer of energy chain systems and polymer plain bearings, explained: “Damp and wet environments can quickly degrade the mechanics of a robot, so customers have understandably been asking us
for an affordable solution.
“Our customers no longer need to invest in expensive additional coverings, because the absence of lubrication in the joints simply means that no grease can be washed out or escape into the environment.”
The new splash-resistant igus IP44 robolink can
carry up to three kilograms, has a range of 790 millimetres and its five axes can make seven picks a minute. 
Thanks to the use of motors, whose encoders have a protection class of IP65, the robot is ideal for outdoor use.
It can also
be used in everything from the food and beverage industry and chemical and pharmaceutical sector to tank and container cleaning operations.
Check out the above video to see the splash-proof robolink for yourself and igus’s very own Alexander Mühlens, Head of Project Engineering drylin® drive technology, get just a little bit wet!