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Epson America Inc. announced today that the GX10B and GX20B, larger models in its GX-B series of SCARA robots, are now available through its channel distributor partners. The Los Alamitos, Calif.-based company said its latest systems deliver performance, safety, and flexibility for the medical device, electronics, and consumer electronics markets.

“The latest GX-B Series is our most advanced lineup to date, enabling integrators to meet a wider range of customer needs with high-performing, reliable solutions that fit seamlessly into workflows for a range of industries,” said Scott Marsic, group product manager at Epson America, in a release. “These new SCARA robots are powerful, automation solutions with a low total cost of ownership, expanding opportunities for our partners.”

Epson America is the regional headquarters of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp., which said it generates annual sales of more than JPY 1 trillion ($6.9 billion U.S.). Epson Robots has more than four decades of experience in systems for assembly and materials handling. It has sold more than 150,00 units worldwide, including SCARA and six-axis robots using a common PC-based platform.

GX10B and GX20B built for high payloads, throughput

Epson Robots said it has engineered the new GX-B models to help users easily develop automation for demanding manufacturing tasks. The GX10B and GX20B offer multiple arm configurations that can handle payloads up to 10 and 20 kg (22 and 44 lb.), respectively, and high throughput, it said.

For ease of programming, the company said its GX-B Series robots integrate with the Epson RC+ industrial Automation Development Software. They also use GYROPLUS vibration-reduction technology to provide fast production speeds, smooth motion control, and fast settling times, according to Epson.

The new SCARA robots use the RC700E next-generation motion controller to improve productivity, it added. Epson noted that the GX-B Series includes industrial-rated safety features.

In October 2023, the company previously announced the GX4B and GX8B robots, which had similar options to the larger models. 

Epson details more SCARA robot features

Epson Robots said its GX-B Series offers fast cycle times, with no ringing or overshoot when operated within specifications. It reiterated the potential benefits of ease of use and low total cost of ownership from battery-less encoders and no recurring license fee for the Epson RC+ software.

For safety, the new robots include SafeSense technology and features in the RC700E controller, said Epson. The GX-B line offers an optimized footprint with options for mounting on tables, walls, and ceilings, it added.

The GX10B has 650 and 850 mm (25.5 and 33.4 in.) reaches available, while the GX20B has 850 and 1,000 mm (39.3 in.) reaches available. A longer Z axis is available on both models, which include advanced integration options and are Industry 4.0-ready, claimed Epson.

In addition, the company said its systems come in standard, cleanroom, electrostatic discharge (ESD), and protected IP65 models. The ISO Class 3 cleanroom model complies with ISO 14644-1 and Fed-std209D Class 1 (less than 10 0.1μm particles per 28,317 cubic cm or 1 cubic ft.).

The global market for SCARA robots could experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1%, expanding from 15.8 billion in 2022 to $36.6 billion by 2030, according to SNS Insider. It attributed that growth to improved precision, faster speeds, and enhanced connectivity.

Similarly, Fact.MR predicted that the SCARA market would grow from $6.1 billion in 2023 to $19.2 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 12.1%. The market research firm cited increased demand from the automotive and chemical industries as short-term growth factors.

The GX10B and GX20B are now available through Epson Robots’ distributor partners.