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Guide

Collaborative robot vs industrial robot

Industrial robots and collaborative robots (cobots) can both do the same jobs, such as palletizing and machine tending. They differ in speed, payload and how they share space with people.

Industrial robots

A classic industrial robot is fast and can carry heavy loads. It normally works inside a safety fence or a light-curtain area, because its speed and force could injure a person.

Collaborative robots

A cobot is designed to work close to people. It is usually slower and carries a lighter load, and it can stop or limit force on contact. It often needs less fencing and is easier to move to another task.

Safety is about the application

A cobot is not automatically safe in every use. The gripper, the product and the speed all matter, so the whole application needs a risk assessment under the relevant safety standards, such as ISO 10218.

How to choose

Choose by the task.

High speed and heavy loads: industrial robot with guarding
Moderate loads and shared space: collaborative robot
Frequent changes of task or position: cobot
Very high throughput: industrial robot

Cost

Compare the whole cell, not only the robot. Guarding, the gripper, programming and integration all add to the price. Our payback calculator helps you to estimate the return.

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