Robot swappage scheme aims to upgrade automation 30 October 2013

A new Robot Swappage Scheme, being introduced by ABB, is seeking to encourage manufacturers to adopt the latest robotic automation technology.

Subject to the payload of the robot, ABB's scheme enables operators to get up to £4,000 off the purchase price of a new ABB robot when they trade in an existing robot from any manufacturer installed 12 or more years ago.

Available until 8 April 2014, the scheme is aimed at small and medium sized firms that have a current working robot, which may be nearing the end of its useful economical working life, according to Dean Phipps, ABB Robotics' service sales manager for the UK and Ireland.

"A large number of robots in use in the UK are now at the point where they are becoming increasingly more difficult and costly to maintain," says Phipps.

"Difficulties in obtaining spares for obsolete models, the absence of any warranties and finding technicians qualified to work on older models are just some of the problems that can add to the expense and inconvenience," he adds.

Phipps states that, in such cases, replacing the robot with a new model can present the most sensible option.

"New developments in robotic technology can also mean that companies using older models may be missing out on a raft of new productivity enhancing features," continues Phipps.

"The enhanced efficiency, flexibility and reliability delivered by the latest generation of robots could help these companies to dramatically transform their production operations."

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
ABB Robotics Ltd

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