Industrial manipulators are essential tools that make it safer and easier to lift and move objects that are heavy, awkwardly shaped or difficult to handle manually. These machines use a strong and flexible arm to pick, transport, and place objects outside their center of mass. Thanks to their ability to rotate and tilt in multiple directions, industrial manipulators can access areas that are difficult or impossible for human workers to reach. As a result, they are commonly deployed in situations where manual lifting is either impractical or unsafe.
Key Differences Between Industrial Manipulators and Balancers
While manipulators and balancers might seem similar, there are significant differences between the two:
Industrial Manipulator: An industrial manipulator, like the FineLift from Fine Handling, is highly flexible and features articulating joints that allow for easy reach in various directions. These machines can move materials outside their center of mass and handle objects with unconventional shapes or uneven weight distribution.
Air Balancer: In contrast, an air balancer uses air pressure as its power source and relies on wires to lift objects. It excels at zero-gravity balancing for quick pick-and-place operations but is generally limited to lightweight and standardized objects. Fine Handling’s air balancer features twin ropes for added safety and is ideal for compact spaces.
Take a look at the table below to gauge the difference between the two units
| Industrial manipulator | Balancer |
| Arm can move in multiple defections | Uses wires to only move objects up or down |
| Built to handle objects with unconventional weight and profile | Designed only for lightweight standard objects |
| Can move objects outside its center of mass | Objects have to be centered properly to be lifted without trouble |
| Is not comprised of wires | Fine Handling Air Balancer has two instead of one wire for added safety |
Benefits of using an industrial manipulator
1. Improved Worker Safety and Comfort
Industrial manipulators not only speed up the handling of heavy or awkwardly shaped items but also contribute to a safer and more comfortable working environment. Repetitive tasks like lifting boxes or heavy equipment can lead to injuries such as back and joint pain over time, affecting workers’ health and productivity.
By reducing the physical strain on workers, industrial manipulators lower the risk of workplace injuries and insurance claims related to such injuries. With a manipulator, employees can handle heavier loads with less effort, creating a healthier and more efficient workplace.
2. Reduced Labor Costs
Manual lifting and material handling often require multiple workers, which increases labor costs and accident risks. Industrial manipulators enable one operator to perform tasks that would otherwise require several people, thereby reducing the number of employees needed for heavy lifting jobs. Additionally, tasks traditionally dominated by male workers due to the physical demands can now be handled by women, promoting workplace inclusivity.
3. Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity
Mechanizing lifting operations with industrial manipulators leads to increased productivity, as employees can move more items with less fatigue. This reduces delays in the workflow and improves overall operational efficiency.
How to Select the Right Industrial Manipulator
When choosing an industrial manipulator, consider the following key factors:
1. Material Properties
The weight, shape, and sensitivity of the materials you plan to move are critical considerations. For example, sectors like food and beverage require hygiene standards to be met, while chemical drums pose unique safety risks. Fine Handling offers manipulators that cater to various material properties, with lifting capacities ranging from 80 kg to 250 kg.
2. Workspace Dimensions
Industrial manipulators have varying working radii, depending on the model. It’s important to choose a machine that fits within the spatial constraints of your workspace, such as aisle width, ceiling height, and rack placement. Fine Handling offers customizable mounting options to ensure a perfect fit for your work environment.
3. Power Supply
The type of power supply—hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, or manual—determines the machine’s speed, accuracy, and ergonomics. For sensitive environments, pneumatic manipulators are often preferred due to their precision and safety.
4. Types of Grippers
The right gripper is crucial for handling specific materials. Fine Handling offers custom-designed grippers to match your application’s needs. Options include vacuum lifters, suction cups, pliers, hooks, magnets, and chucks. Each gripper is tailored to handle objects securely and efficiently.
Fine Handling: Leading Manufacturer of Industrial Manipulator in India
With over 15 years of expertise, Fine Handling is a trusted provider of world-class industrial manipulators. Our state-of-the-art R&D facility in Pune is dedicated to developing products that enhance safety and productivity. With over 1200 installations across industries, Fine Handling offers comprehensive solutions for all your material handling needs.
For expert advice on choosing the right industrial manipulator, contact us at sales@fine-handling.com.