Does the 120 kg payload rating for the LA013-010 robot include the end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) weight?
Explains how to correctly calculate the total payload for the NexBot Robotics LA013-010 robot arm, including the weight of the end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) and the workpiece.
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This article clarifies the payload specification for the NexBot Robotics LA013-010 6-Axis Robot Arm (SKU: NXB-ROB-LA013-010) and explains how to properly account for all components attached to the robot's wrist flange.
Answer
Yes. The specified 120 kg payload for the NXB-ROB-LA013-010 is the maximum total mass that can be mounted to the J6 (wrist) flange. This total mass includes the weight of the end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) — such as grippers, welding torches, or dispensing heads — plus the weight of the workpiece being manipulated.
It is critical to adhere to this limit to ensure the robot's performance, longevity, and safe operation. The formula for calculating your application's payload is:
Total Payload = (Weight of EOAT) + (Weight of Workpiece)
Total Payload must be ≤ 120 kg
Exceeding the rated payload can lead to several negative consequences:
- Reduced Accuracy: The robot may not achieve its specified repeatability of ±0.05 mm.
- Increased Servo Motor Strain: Motors will draw higher current, leading to overheating and potential faults.
- Premature Mechanical Wear: Gearboxes, bearings, and structural components will experience stress beyond their design limits, significantly reducing the robot's operational lifespan.
- Safety Risks: The robot may behave unpredictably, especially during high-speed movements, creating a hazardous condition for personnel and equipment.
Important Considerations: Inertia and Center of Gravity
Beyond the static weight, the size, shape, and center of gravity (CoG) of the combined EOAT and workpiece are equally important. These factors determine the moment of inertia at the wrist axes (J4, J5, and J6).
A large or off-center payload, even if it is under the 120 kg weight limit, can generate excessive torque on the wrist axes, exceeding their inertia limits. This can cause vibration, positioning errors, and high motor loads.
Always refer to the official NXB-ROB-LA013-010 technical datasheet for the detailed payload diagrams. These diagrams show the allowable payload as a function of the distance of the payload's center of gravity from the wrist flange.
Tips for Payload Management
- Weigh All Components: Before integration, accurately weigh your complete EOAT assembly and the heaviest workpiece it will handle.
- Use NexBot Sizing Tools: Utilize NexBot's official robot simulation and sizing software to validate your application. These tools allow you to input your EOAT and workpiece mass properties (weight, CoG, moments of inertia) to confirm that the application is within the LA013-010's dynamic limits.
- Optimize EOAT Design: Design or select EOAT that is as lightweight and compact as possible to maximize the available payload for the workpiece and keep the CoG close to the wrist flange.
Related Topics
- Defining a Tool Center Point (TCP) for the LA013-010
- Understanding Robot Arm Moment and Inertia Ratings
- Best Practices for End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT) Selection