What are we talking about? A KUKA robot refresher

KUKA, a German robotics company, offers a wide variety of robots, each designed for specific tasks:

• Industrial robots: These are the heavy lifters, ideal for tasks like welding, assembly, palletizing, and material handling. Popular models include the KR QUANTEC and KR IONTEC series.
• Collaborative robots (cobots): These user-friendly robots are built to work alongside humans, assisting with tasks like machine tending, quality inspections, and packaging. Check out the LBR iiwa and LBR iisy cobots.
• Mobile robots: These independent robots navigate your facility, transporting materials and managing warehouse logistics. The KMR iiwa is a great example of a mobile manipulator.
• Special-purpose robots: KUKA also creates robots tailored for specific industries, such as healthcare (like the KUKA Medical Robotics LBR Med) and entertainment (think animatronics).

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New KUKA robot prices: What to expect

How much will a brand-new KUKA robot set you back? It depends on a few things:

• The model and its muscles: KUKA offers a variety of models with different payload capacities (how much weight they can lift). Smaller robots are generally more affordable than their bulkier counterparts.
• Reach and flexibility: The robot's reach (how far its arm can extend) and degrees of freedom (how many ways it can move) also influence the price. More reach and flexibility usually mean a higher price tag.
• Extra features: KUKA offers a ton of add-ons, like grippers, sensors, and vision systems. These can significantly increase the total cost.

Considering all this, the price of a new KUKA robot can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s definitely a substantial investment. 

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Getting your hands on a used KUKA robot

If you're on a tighter budget, the used KUKA robot market is definitely worth your time.

You can often find pre-owned KUKA robots for 30% to 50% less than a new one on average. Just be sure to carefully inspect the robot's condition and remaining lifespan before making a purchase.

Here’s what you should keep in mind before you buy a used bot: 

• Age: How old is the robot, and has it been well-maintained? Look for signs of wear and tear, and inquire about its service history.
• How many hours of “on” time it has: The more hours a robot has operated, the closer it might be to needing major repairs or replacements.
• Software and compatibility: Ensure the used robot's software is compatible with your existing systems and that it can be updated if needed.

Warranty and support: Some sellers may offer warranties or support for used robots, which is definitely good for peace of mind.

Where to find a great KUKA robot match

Here are some places to look:

• Authorized KUKA distributors: These are your official sources for new KUKA robots, offering expert advice, support, and warranties. They'll help you find the right model for your needs and make sure it's properly installed and integrated into your operations.
• Online marketplaces: Websites like eBay and industrial automation marketplaces like Robots.com often have used KUKA robots available for purchase. Of course, carefully inspect the robot's condition and get as much information as possible from the seller before committing to a purchase.
• Directly from companies: Keep an eye out for companies upgrading their robotic systems. They might be willing to sell their old KUKA robots directly, offering a potentially more affordable option. 

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Price showdown: KUKA vs. the competition

When comparing KUKA robot prices to other brands, don't just focus on the initial purchase price. 

Give serious thought to the total cost of ownership, which includes factors like maintenance costs, energy consumption, and the availability of spare parts.

Here’s a small breakdown of average starting prices:

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KUKA:

• Starting price: $50,000 — $100,000+
• Strengths: High precision, reliability, wide range of models and payloads
• Weaknesses: Higher upfront cost, complex programming for some models

FANUC:

• Starting price: $40,000 — $80,000+
• Strengths: Large installed base, user-friendly interface
• Weaknesses: Limited range of collaborative robots

ABB:

• Starting price: $45,000 — $90,000+
• Strengths: Strong in collaborative robots, diverse applications
• Weaknesses: Some models may have higher maintenance costs

Yaskawa Motoman:

• Starting price: $35,000 — $70,000+
• Strengths: Affordable options, reliable performance
• Weaknesses: Smaller market share compared to KUKA and FANUC

Keep in mind: These are just average starting prices, and the actual cost will vary depending on the specific model, features, and additional options you choose.

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Additional costs

Beyond the purchase price of a KUKA robot, there are other costs to factor into your budget:

• Installation: Proper installation is extremely important for making sure your robot works optimally and safely. This often requires professional installers, which can add $5,000 to $20,000 to the total cost.
• Maintenance: Like any complex machinery, KUKA robots need regular upkeep to keep them running smoothly. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and replacing worn-out parts. Annual maintenance costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the robot's complexity and usage.
• Training: To get the most out of your KUKA robot, your team will need proper training on how to operate and program it. KUKA offers various training programs, but they can be pricey, ranging from a few thousand dollars for basic training to tens of thousands for advanced courses. You might also want to budget for additional training from third-party providers.

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Summing up

When thinking about the KUKA robot price, it's clear that these machines will cost you a chunk of change. However, their precision, performance, and long-term cost savings are definitely near the top. 

If you ask us, there are more budget-friendly options to consider if what you want is top-shelf robotics without the added cost. 

Weigh your options carefully and shop around before you commit to an expensive purchase! 

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Next steps

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RO1’s features include:

• Budget-friendly powerhouse: This robot harnesses the power of cutting-edge automation technology at half the cost of comparable robot arms.
• Best-in-class performance: RO1 surpasses the competition with its impressive 18 kg payload capacity and lightning-fast speed. You won’t find a similar robot in this price range. 
• Learns as you do: Powered by sophisticated AI, similar to GPT-4, RO1 continually evolves and adapts to your specific needs within a user-friendly, no-code framework.
• Hassle-free, safe collab: RO1 seamlessly integrates into your team, prioritizing safety through state-of-the-art vision and sensor systems.

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Try RO1 risk-free for 30 days and witness the transformative impact it can have on your business. Get in touch today to book a demo.