FANUC SR-9iA/R Hits 82 Panels/Min in IREX 2025 Demo

Record-Breaking IREX Speed

FANUC's SR-9iA/R rack-mounted SCARA robot achieved an astonishing 82 solar panels per minute during its live demonstration at IREX 2025 in Tokyo this November, redefining high-volume material handling benchmarks. Engineers marveled as the robot shuttled 2.5 kg solar cell modules across a 500 mm horizontal path and 100 mm vertical lift in relentless cycles, sustaining peak performance without downtime. This feat underscores FANUC's push to meet surging global solar production demands, particularly from China's expanding factories, where throughput directly impacts profitability.

Rack Design Revolution

The SR-9iA/R disrupts traditional SCARA setups with its innovative rack-mount configuration, positioning the second arm below the first to minimize vertical protrusion and eliminate tip shake at high speeds. This engineering choice enables seamless integration into conveyor lines, transforming cramped production floors into efficient hubs. Demonstrated flawlessly at FANUC's May 2025 New Products Open House, the robot's high-rigidity arms ensure pinpoint accuracy even under continuous heavy-duty operation, setting it apart from bulkier floor models.

Rigidity Powers Precision

Engineers at FANUC prioritized arm rigidity in the SR-9iA/R, achieving the world's top processing capacity through reinforced first and second joints that withstand 24/7 demands. Integrated iRVision for 2D/3D detection, iRPickTool for line tracking, and force sensors enable adaptive handling of delicate components, while FANUC CNC and Karel software streamline programming. These advances, proven in real solar transport trials, allow the robot to maintain 0.7-second cycle times indefinitely, far surpassing standard endurance limits.

Solar Factory Transformer

In solar cell module transportation, the SR-9iA/R excels at conveyor-to-pallet transfers, boosting output in high-volume lines. Electronics manufacturers deploy it for PCB assembly pick-and-place, while part sorting operations benefit from its speed in dynamic environments. Recent deployments in Asian facilities handling small mechanical parts up to 9 kg demonstrate 30% faster throughput compared to prior generations, directly cutting labor costs and scaling production to match renewable energy booms.

Core Performance Metrics

Weighing just 27 kg with a compact 350 x 300 mm footprint and 620 mm reach, the SR-9iA/R delivers a 0.7-second cycle for 500 mm horizontal/100 mm vertical moves at up to 2,000 mm/s linear velocity, powering non-stop solar handling. Dual-channel safety, emergency stops, and ISO 10218 compliance ensure secure operations, while iRVision, iRPickTool, and force sensors support payloads like solar modules, PCBs, and 9 kg components. FANUC CNC and Karel software tie these specs to reliable, high-volume outcomes.

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