FANUC CRX-25iA Cobot Achieves 25 kg Payload with Built-in Force Sensing

FANUC Corporation has introduced the CRX-25iA collaborative robot, capable of handling a payload of up to 25 kilograms while maintaining integrated force sensing for enhanced safety and precision. The new model extends FANUC’s CRX series, targeting heavy-duty material handling and assembly tasks in automotive and aerospace manufacturing.

The CRX-25iA features a reach of 1830 mm and a repeatability of ±0.03 mm. Its key technical advancement is the incorporation of six-axis force/torque sensors directly into the robot’s joints, enabling real-time collision detection and adaptive force control without external sensors. This allows the robot to perform tasks such as peg-in-hole insertion, polishing, and deburring with consistent force application.

Safety certification conforms to ISO 10218-1 and ISO/TS 15066, with a built-in safety-rated monitored stop and reduced speed when an operator enters its workspace. The robot’s control cabinet, the R-30iB Plus, supports FANUC’s iRVision and DCS (Dual Check Safety) functions.

From a business perspective, the CRX-25iA reduces integration complexity. Its force sensing is calibrated at the factory and requires no additional hardware calibration on site. FANUC estimates that deployment time is 30% faster compared to previous models with add-on sensors.

The robot is scheduled for initial shipment to system integrators in Q4 2024, with a list price of $49,000 before integration costs. FANUC targets sectors where manual handling of parts up to 25 kg leads to ergonomic risks, such as engine assembly and heavy component kitting.

In comparison to competitors, Universal Robots’ UR20e offers a 20 kg payload with optional force-torque sensor; ABB’s GoFa CRB 15000 has a 12 kg payload. The CRX-25iA’s 25 kg capacity and integrated sensing position it for heavier collaborative applications.

Analysts from Robotic Industries Association note that the collaborative robot market for payloads above 20 kg is growing at 18% annually, driven by automotive and electronics sectors. The CRX-25iA addresses a gap for applications requiring both payload and compliance.

The robot’s operating temperature range is 0–45°C, and it has an IP54 protection rating. Its power consumption is 1.2 kW at maximum load. FANUC provides a 2-year warranty on mechanical components and a 1-year warranty on electrical parts.

Implications for system integrators include simplified safety validation because the force sensing is part of the robot’s certified safety system. Integrators can deploy the robot in applications without additional safeguarding, reducing overall system cost.

For end users, the CRX-25iA offers the ability to automate tasks previously done by heavy-duty industrial robots or manual labor. The built-in force sensing allows for gentle part handling, reducing scrap rates.

FANUC’s introduction of the CRX-25iA is expected to accelerate adoption of collaborative robots in heavy payload applications, with potential to replace up to 40% of traditional industrial robot installations that require safety fencing.

Source: Robot Design Net