In electronics manufacturing, time-consuming and repetitive complex tasks are often conducted manually. The importance of ESD protected robotics is growing. In addition to parts handling, uses include assembly, soldering, and component inspection, even when assembling small parts. In this article we highlight the fact that Mitsubishi Electric’s MELFA Industrial Robots Achieve ESD Certification, while looking at how ESD protected robots go where others fear to tread.
PCB assembly is labour-intensive and quality critical. For example, with variable and flexible components such as ribbon cables and plug connections or the connection of assemblies. ESD protected robot automation brings complete independence from operator errors, higher quality and better documentability across all processes.
Even when testing electronic assemblies such as in-circuit tests, the robot takes over monotonous routines to ensures precise repeatability. The robot also offers maximum flexibility, for example where the PCB assemblies for testing change frequently.
Mitsubishi Electric MELFA Industrial Robots Achieve ESD Certification
Mitsubishi Electric has joined a select group of manufacturers to achieve third-party certification for protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD) across its entire range of MELFA industrial robots. ESD protection is a crucial requirement in the handling of sensitive components and PCB assembly and comes as standard in all Mitsubishi Electric industrial robots and significantly, at no extra cost.
Certification covers MELFA FR horizontal and vertical industrial robots with a maximum payload of 20kg, and RV-5AS-D-ESD industrial collaborative robots. Specifically, the use of special treatments allows earthing of the entire robot arm including plastics to prevent ESD build-up.
Models are also compatible with the MELFA Smart Plus card which offers a variety of intelligent functions. These include predictive and preventative maintenance, calibration assistance and enhanced vision and force sense control provided by MELFA Safe Plus. As a result, this ensures the safe interaction of people and industrial robots and cobots.
The wide range of solution-based applications that ESD protected robots dare to tread:
- Clean room requirements according to ISO 14644.
- Intelligent joining with 100% monitoring for complete documentation.
- Standing, hanging, or ceiling mounting.
- Adhesive or potting application for a 3D geometry.
- SmartPlus options ensure maximum precision and extreme speed even at changing temperatures, predictive maintenance, and motion optimisation.
- Special order models with internal wiring and piping specification.
- SECS/GEM protocol available with PLC robot integrated solutions.
All models are in accordance with EC61340-5-1:2016 and ANSI/ESD S20.20:2014, including static and dynamic testing and measurement of triboelectric charges.
The MELFA ESD protected robots also incorporate all the core functionality of the RV-FR and RV-RH range of industrial robots, and offer easy systems integration with PLC, servo and HMI. The models offer high-speed with excellent repeatability and are easy-to-use with clear visual programming. Key attributes include highly accurate 2D/3D vision and force sensors, in-house motors, and highly rigid arms. Furthermore, their innovative drive control technology allows for high torque output at high rotational speeds.
BPX are proud Innovation Partners of Mitsubishi Electric, and since 1989, the largest independent technical distributor of Mitsubishi Electric automation equipment in the UK. Should you wish to discuss how ESD protected robotics can integrate and support your particular application with a Mitsubishi Electric specialist and member of our Application Support Team, please don’t hesitate to submit our contact form below, and we’ll be in back in touch at the earliest opportunity.