SCARA robots, which stands for Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm or Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm, are a type of industrial robot known for their high speed and precision in horizontal plane movements. They have emerged as versatile and efficient tools across various industries. Introduced in the early 1980s, the SCARA robots combined the precision of industrial robots with the flexibility of articulated robots. Over the years, the SCARA robots evolved to be a robotic system that excels in horizontal movements while maintaining a vertical axis.  

In this blog, we attempted to explore on the key characteristics of SCARA robots, advantages in detail, their limitations, and the industrial applications.  

So, let’s begin with, 

Key characteristics of SCARA robots: 

1. Four degrees of freedom SCARA robots can move in the x, y and z axes, as well as execute rotational movements around the vertical axis. This configuration enhances their ability to navigate complex workspaces with ease. 
2. Payload capacity SCARA robots can carry a relatively lighter payload, typically of 2kg to 10kg.  
3. Selective compliance Meaning, the robot’s ability to be compliant in the vertical direction. This helps them to identify the shape of the objects they are working with; it is achieved through a combination of joint designs and materials. 
4. Speed and precision SCARA robots are known for their high speed and precise movements, especially in the horizontal plane. This makes them suitable for applications where speed and accuracy are critical, such as assembly lines. In terms of repeatability, the SCARA robots can achieve tolerances lower than 10 microns. 
5. Cylindrical work envelope The robot’s cylindrical work envelope allows it to reach objects within a certain radius. This design is well suited for tasks that involve working on a flat surface such as assembling electronic components on a circuit board. 
6. Cost-effectiveness Due to their simplicity and efficiency, SCARA robots are considered cost-effective solutions for specific applications. 
7. Compact layout The compact layout of the SCARA robot suits applications with limited floor space. And also makes them easier to reallocate. 

Despite the speed, precision, and agility they provide, they do have a few limitations, in terms of limited 3D flexibility, and smaller payload handling capacity, so they have very specific applications across industries and functions.  

Some of the industrial applications of SCARA robots: 

1. Manufacturing SCARA robots are extensively used in assembly lines and manufacturing. Their high speed and precise movements make them suited for picking components, handling materials, and assembling products across various industries including electronics, automotive, and consumer goods. 
2. Electronics and semiconductor industry They are used in the assembling of electronic devices and products. They perform well in picking electronic components and placing them on circuit boards. 
3. Pharmaceutical industry SCARA robots are utilized in the pharmaceutical industry for dispensing medicines, sorting pills, and packaging pharmaceutical products. 
4. Automotive industry SCARA robots play a pivotal role in automotive assembly lines handling welding and screwing. Also, they are used for transferring materials and components between different stages of the manufacturing process. 
5. Food and Beverages Industry SCARA robots are used for picking and packaging food products with high precision and speed. They can also be used for sorting and arranging food items on conveyor belts. 
6. Aerospace Industry SCARA robots can execute drilling and riveting operations in the aerospace industry. They have been used in inspecting and testing aerospace components as well. 
7. 3D Printing Industry In 3D printing manufacturing processes, SCARA robots are employed in handling materials and components. 
8. Consumer goods industry SCARA robots are being used in the packaging and labeling processes of consumer goods. 

To conclude, 

Over the years, SCARA robots have become an integral part in manufacturing & warehouse automation solutions with increased efficiency, precision, and flexibility. We, at Anzo Controls, provide top-tier automation solutions for pick & place, palletizing, packaging, and material movement inside the warehouse using various robots, such as Gantry robots, Delta robots, SCARA robots, 6-axis robots, conveyors along with software solutions such as MES & IoT. For any inquiries regarding industrial automation or robotic solutions, do reach out to us on info@anzocontrols.com.