Arburg to debut standalone robotic systems at Fakuma 2026

Arburg will introduce its standalone robotic systems at Fakuma 2026. The solutions can be used independently of injection moulding machines and are operated through the new mobile rControl robot operating panel. According to the company, this approach enables processors to scale automation as required, retrofit existing installations and extend their service life while improving production efficiency. At stand 3101 in Hall A3, Arburg will demonstrate a standalone upstream cell involving several interconnected robots. The robots will assemble folding cartons and transfer them to a production cell in which dominoes are injection moulded.

The standalone systems extend the handling options available in plastic parts production. They are intended in particular for upstream and downstream automation tasks, including the preparation of feed parts, assembly and packaging. Arburg also states that the standardisation of automation can reduce investment costs. The new standalone solutions are scheduled to become available initially to customers in Europe from Fakuma 2026 onwards.

Integration into existing production lines

Standalone variants will be available for Multilift Select linear robotic systems with payload capacities ranging from 4 to 16 kilograms, as well as for Yaskawa Scara and six-axis robots Powered by Arburg. A standalone Multilift Select is designed for standard tasks, while a Yaskawa six-axis robot can complement it by carrying out more complex handling operations.

Standalone versions comprising one or more robots can be integrated into new turnkey installations or retrofitted to existing systems regardless of their manufacturer. This allows processors to expand production systems flexibly and extend their operating life. For production cells equipped with Allrounder injection moulding machines, Arburg assumes responsibility for CE marking. Where third-party machines are used, responsibility for CE marking rests with the customer.

rControl panel for independent robot operation

To allow standalone robots to be programmed and operated independently, the systems are equipped with an enhanced control cabinet incorporating a controller and a new mobile operating panel. The panel has a compact, lightweight design. Its user interface is based on the operating concept used in Arburg's Gestica machine control system.

The interface is intended to support rapid commissioning and operation by personnel with limited experience. Its structured display guides users through routine operating procedures. Programs can be created directly through the panel, allowing production processes to be controlled independently of the injection moulding machine. Connection to existing production environments is provided through the Euromap 67 robot interface.

Automation engineering and service

Arburg will offer the standalone robots as part of its automation portfolio for injection moulding operations. The company provides support from the initial concept through project implementation and can configure the technology for individual applications, including complex turnkey systems. The offering combines project coordination, a standardised delivery date and service support through a single supplier.