ABB Robotics Launches Energy Efficiency Service to Help Customers Save Costs and Enhance Sustainability
October 11,2024
Optimizing Energy Efficiency for Industrial Robots
ABB Robotics has introduced an innovative Energy Efficiency Service designed to help manufacturers reduce energy consumption in their robotic systems. With energy costs presenting a major challenge for 58% of global manufacturers, according to a recent Energy Efficiency Movement report, this new service aims to offer significant cost savings—up to 30%. The service provides manufacturers with tools, consultation, and analysis to optimize robot performance and energy use, addressing a critical area for businesses seeking to remain competitive while improving sustainability.
Michael Hose, Managing Director of ABB Robotics Customer Service Business Line, emphasizes the importance of this initiative:
“Reducing energy consumption is a priority for manufacturers. Over 93% of those surveyed stated they plan to invest in energy efficiency improvements over the next three years to reduce costs and demonstrate progress toward more sustainable operations. Our new service will identify ways to achieve these objectives by optimizing robot energy efficiency, fine-tuning performance, and using the latest robot technologies.”
Overcoming the Complexity of Robot Energy Efficiency
Traditionally, assessing the energy efficiency of industrial robots has been a complex process. Manufacturers need to measure multiple electrical components while considering various external factors such as inefficient setup, improper component sizing, overloading, and application changes that can negatively affect a robot’s performance. This intricate nature has made it challenging for manufacturers to achieve their energy-saving goals.
To address these challenges, ABB Robotics’ Energy Efficiency Service leverages over 50 years of experience in industrial robotics. It introduces a comprehensive set of tools that simplify energy measurement and provide actionable insights for optimization, making it easier than ever for manufacturers to improve robot energy efficiency.
Key Tools for Energy Savings
The new Energy Efficiency Service includes three powerful tools: Standby Energy Optimisation, Program Optimization, and Energy Monitoring and Benchmarking. Together, these tools provide manufacturers with a clear understanding of their robot's energy consumption and help identify ways to reduce waste.
Standby Energy Optimisation: This external measurement tool assesses the actual energy consumption of the robot and controller during standby periods. The data is used to generate detailed reports, highlighting areas where energy can be saved and offering recommendations for further performance improvements.
Program Optimization: This tool evaluates the robot’s operating programs and highlights opportunities for energy savings. By analyzing data from the robot, it identifies changes such as adjusting speed or optimizing motion paths, resulting in improved energy efficiency without compromising performance.
Energy Monitoring and Benchmarking: This tool continuously monitors energy consumption, providing valuable data that can be compared across robots in similar applications. With this data, manufacturers can track their energy use, identify trends, and receive recommendations for further optimization.
Upgrading to New Technologies for Greater Efficiency
In addition to optimizing existing robotic systems, ABB’s Energy Efficiency Service can provide analysis on the benefits of upgrading to new-generation technologies. ABB’s OmniCore robot controller, for instance, offers advanced motion control along with 20% energy savings, thanks to its power regeneration technology and brake energy recovery features. By upgrading to the latest technologies, manufacturers can significantly enhance energy efficiency, further reducing operational costs.
Helping Businesses Achieve Sustainability Goals
The Energy Efficiency Service is part of ABB’s broader strategy to help businesses achieve their sustainability goals. By optimizing processes, minimizing waste, and reducing energy consumption, ABB Robotics is enabling manufacturers to create more sustainable operations while maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly demanding market.
Conclusion
ABB Robotics’ new Energy Efficiency Service offers manufacturers a comprehensive solution to a major challenge—rising energy costs. With a suite of advanced tools and technologies, the service enables companies to make their robots more energy-efficient, reduce costs, and move closer to their sustainability targets. By investing in energy efficiency improvements, manufacturers can not only save money but also position themselves as leaders in sustainable industrial practices.
For businesses looking to optimize their robot performance and boost sustainability, ABB Robotics’ Energy Efficiency Service provides a practical and innovative path forward.