DuPont Materials Power Robotics Components to Improved Durability and Performance
Abrasion resistance, reduced weight, increased processability, and material savings are all possible for robotics applications, thanks to a wide range of material solutions from DuPont.
At K 2022, visitors to the DuPont Mobility & Materials stand will be greeted by a cobot (collaborative robot) from Fanuc Europe (Luxembourg) outfitted with a Hytrel TPC-ET dress pack. This is the flexible, yet durable, tube that holds all of the robot’s electrical wires and cabling, protecting them from abrasion as the robot moves along multiple axes. Cable management systems providers have been able to customize Hytrel dress packs for robotics devices across a wide variety of industries and manufacturers.
In one case, a supplier switched to Hytrel for its dress packs with outstanding results. Its original TPU dress packs were becoming brittle over time, especially at lowtemperatures. The supplier then attempted to use polyamide for the tubes, but the problem persisted. After switching to Hytrel , the dress packs outperformed both the TPU and PA versions for long term flexibility, UV resistance, and the ability to withstand a welding environment (common for industrial robots).
On average, this supplier estimates that Hytrel extends the lifetime of its dress packs by a factor of four. In addition, the more robust dress pack reduces maintenance costs, is more sustainable because it needs to be replaced much less often, and creates fewer production line interruptions.
“With multiple chemistries at our fingertips, we are able to determine the best options for the many components needed in robotics applications, not just for today, but also for the future,” explained Clément Lopez, Application Development Specialist, Mobility & Materials. “Our customers collaborate with us to redefine this industry and overcome hurdles daily. It is a fascinating, rapid-paced environment where our design and processing expertise are vital to success.”
Robotics are redefining manufacturing, logistics, and even life in general. From Industry 4.0 robots and cobots to AMR (automated mobile robots) and AGV (automated guided vehicle) technologies, the level of innovation in this industry seems to know no limits. To support innovation and development in this growing field, DuPont has developed forward-looking polymer solutions coupled with design and processing expertise to help customers transform their products.
In addition to Hytrel TPC-ET, the Mobility & Materials portfolio for robotics applications includes materials based on PBT (Crastin ), PET (Rynite ), and polyamides (Zytel PA, Zytel HTN, Zytel LCPA). Robotics material solutions from this group can:
- Add high-value functional properties
- Increase durability and extend useful life
- Simplify processing and reduce total weight
- Reduce risk of failure
- Enhance sustainability
Proven applications from OEMs and suppliers include:
- Electrical and electronic connectors, sensors, electronic components, and
insulators - Cabling dress packs, drag chains, cable insulation, and jacketing
- Vacuum, pneumatic, and hydraulic components
- Metal replacement for structural components such as wheel drive gears, gear
sets, bearing cages, and grippers - Battery and charging modules, bumpers, housing, dampers, wheels, casters, and
airless (non-pneumatic) tires
For additional information about DuPont Mobility & Materials, visit www.dupont.com/mobility.
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