UR16e
High-payload collaborative robot for heavy-duty automation
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The UR16e is Universal Robots' highest payload collaborative robot, designed to handle payloads up to 16 kg with a reach of 900 mm. This six-axis cobot combines heavy-lifting capabilities with the flexibility and safety features of collaborative automation, making it ideal for machine tending, palletizing, packaging, and assembly tasks. It targets manufacturers seeking to automate repetitive heavy-duty tasks while maintaining safe human-robot collaboration.
Released: 2018
Overview
The UR16e represents Universal Robots' solution for applications requiring higher payloads while maintaining the collaborative safety features that define the e-Series. With its 16 kg payload capacity and 900 mm reach, the UR16e bridges the gap between traditional collaborative robots and industrial automation, enabling manufacturers to automate tasks that were previously too heavy for cobots.
Built on the proven e-Series platform, the UR16e features improved force/torque sensing, intuitive programming through the PolyScope interface, and enhanced safety capabilities that allow it to work alongside human operators. The robot's compact footprint and flexible deployment options make it suitable for space-constrained environments where traditional industrial robots would be impractical.
The UR16e is designed for quick deployment and easy integration, with tool communication and power supply built into the wrist. Its lightweight construction relative to its payload capacity, combined with Universal Robots' ecosystem of compatible end-effectors and accessories, makes it a versatile solution for manufacturers across automotive, electronics, metal and machining, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage industries.
Key Features
- 16 kg payload capacity: Highest payload in the UR collaborative robot lineup for heavy-duty applications
- 900 mm reach: Extended working envelope for accessing larger work areas and deeper machine tending
- Built-in force/torque sensing: Enhanced sensitivity for precise assembly, polishing, and quality inspection tasks
- IP54 rating: Protected against dust and water splashes for use in challenging production environments
- ±0.05 mm repeatability: High precision for consistent quality in assembly and material handling
- 17 safety functions: TÜV-certified collaborative operation with adjustable safety settings
- Tool communication: Integrated tool power and communication in wrist joint for simplified end-effector integration
- Graphical programming: Intuitive PolyScope interface enables fast setup without specialized programming knowledge
Applications
The UR16e excels in machine tending operations where heavier parts need to be loaded and unloaded from CNC machines, injection molding equipment, and stamping presses. Its payload capacity makes it particularly effective for palletizing and packaging applications, handling multiple products simultaneously or managing heavier individual items. The robot is widely deployed in automotive component assembly, electronics manufacturing for handling circuit boards and housings, and metalworking facilities for part handling and quality inspection.
In addition to material handling, the UR16e's force sensing capabilities enable it to perform precision tasks such as screw driving, press fitting, polishing, and deburring on larger workpieces. Food and beverage manufacturers use the UR16e for packaging operations, while pharmaceutical companies deploy it for handling containers and materials in cleanroom environments. The robot's collaborative nature allows it to work in close proximity to human operators, taking over the heavy lifting while workers focus on higher-value tasks.
Technical Highlights
The UR16e's advanced force/torque sensing technology, integrated into all six joints, enables the robot to detect even slight variations in force during operation. This capability supports applications requiring adaptive behavior, such as complex assembly tasks where parts must be fitted together with precise force control. The robot can automatically adjust its movements based on real-time feedback, ensuring consistent results even when dealing with slight variations in part dimensions or positioning.
The e-Series architecture incorporates improved joint design with increased current capacity and thermal management, enabling the UR16e to maintain performance during extended operations. The robot features standard industrial communication protocols including Modbus TCP, PROFINET, and Ethernet/IP, facilitating seamless integration into existing manufacturing systems. Universal Robots' UR+ ecosystem provides certified compatibility with hundreds of grippers, vision systems, and software packages, enabling rapid deployment of complete automation solutions tailored to specific applications.
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