Service aims to cut robot energy use by up to 30%
8 October 2024 
ABB Robotics has launched a service that, it says, will help manufacturers to cut the energy used by their robots by up to 30%. The Energy Efficiency Service consists of a package of consultation, analysis and software tools.
“Reducing energy consumption is a priority for manufacturers, with over 93% surveyed stating they will invest in energy efficiency improvements in the next three years to reduce costs and demonstrate progress towards more sustainable operations,” says Michael Hose, managing director of ABB Robotics’ customer service business. “Our new service will identify ways to achieve these objectives by optimising robot energy efficiency, including fine-tuning performance and using the latest robot technologies.”
Assessing the energy efficiency of industrial robots has traditionally been a complex task, involving measuring multiple electrical components. It has also been difficult to gauge the impact of factors such as inefficient set-ups, poor component sizing, overloading and application changes, which can alter a robot’s original performance.
The new service will address these challenges using three key energy measurement tools:
- The Standby Energy Optimisation tool is an external measurement tool that allows customers to assess the real energy consumption of their robots and controllers. Data gathered by the tool is used to generate reports offering advice on ways to save energy, as well as recommendations on further steps for fine-tuning performance.
- The Program Optimisation tool analyses robots’ operating programs to highlight areas where improvements could be made to save energy. Using backup data from the robot, the tool identifies measures such as adjusting a robot’s programmed speed or motion paths that could improve performance and cut energy use.
- The Energy Monitoring and Benchmarking tool provides continuous monitoring of a robot’s energy consumption. The tool offers recommendations for improving performance, and provides comparisons with other robots in similar applications.
The new service can also analyse the impact of upgrading to energy-saving technologies. For example, ABB’s latest OmniCore robot controller can deliver energy savings of up to 20% using functions such as power re-generation and brake energy recovery.
