Modern industry demands flexible, reconfigurable, and fast automation. Factories can no longer rely solely on fixed production lines; they need solutions that adapt in hours, not months. This need has given rise to a powerful combination: refurbished mobile robots integrated with used industrial robotic arms.
This approach delivers the agility required by Industry 4.0—without the high cost of brand‑new robotics.
1. Why this technology is growing
Traditional industrial robots were static: bolted to the floor, designed to repeat a single task.
Today, thanks to modularity, professional refurbishment, and autonomous mobile platforms, these same robots can become:
- Mobile workstations
- Reconfigurable robotic cells
- Autonomous units capable of changing tasks and locations
The key is not just mobility—it is operational independence, optimized floor space, reduced idle time, and maximum utilization of existing resources.
2. Real‑world success stories
Case 1: Electronics industry – Northern Italy
A refurbished FANUC M‑20iA was mounted on a mobile base for inter‑line pick‑and‑place operations.
Before:
- 3 operators dedicated to transporting parts
- Frequent stops and low efficiency
After:
- One mobile robot covers three stations
- 24/7 operation
- ROI achieved in 8 months
- Staff reassigned to higher‑value tasks
Case 2: Metalworking sector
A refurbished KUKA KR 10 R1420 on a laser‑guided platform now performs inspections directly in multiple cells.
Before:
- All parts were transported to a central quality area
Now:
- The robot travels to the parts
- 35% reduction in internal transport time
- Improved traceability through integrated vision inspection software
3. Key advantages of refurbished mobile robots
✔ Modular flexibility
Companies can start with a single mobile robot and scale up by adding units or arms of different sizes, such as:
- ABB IRB 1600
- Yaskawa GP12
- KUKA KR 60
- FANUC LR Mate or R‑2000 series
✔ Fast integration
Refurbished controllers easily connect to:
- PLC systems
- MES software
- Logistics & inspection software
- AGV/AMR systems
✔ Deployment in weeks, not months
A new robot can take months to arrive.
A certified refurbished robot can be up and running within weeks.
✔ Sustainability and reduced carbon footprint
Refurbished robots reduce:
- Electronic waste
- Manufacturing impact
- Demand for new components
Each refurbished robot extends its life cycle, contributing to true circular economy practices.
4. A future of dynamic, reconfigurable factories
Rigid production lines are disappearing.
In their place emerge “living factories”:
- Lines that form and dissolve based on demand
- Robots that move freely
- Processes that reorganize without shutting down
Refurbished mobile robots are the ideal bridge for mid‑sized companies needing to adapt, automate, and scale without massive investments.
5. How we help
At UsedRobotsTrade, we refurbish and certify robots from top brands:
ABB, KUKA, FANUC, Yaskawa/Motoman.
Our robots are ready for:
- Mobile platforms
- Flexible cells
- Modular automation systems
- Customized integrations
If your factory needs to move, adapt, and produce with more intelligence, we can help you make it happen.
Visit: www.usedrobotstrade.com
📋 FAQ Checklist – Refurbished Mobile Robots
1. What is a refurbished mobile robot?
An industrial robot that has been professionally overhauled and mounted on an autonomous mobile platform (AGV/AMR) or manual base.
2. What’s the difference between a refurbished robot and a new one?
Refurbished robots offer comparable performance with significantly lower investment and faster delivery times.
3. Is it safe to use refurbished industrial robots?
Yes—if they are certified and professionally refurbished according to industrial standards.
4. How long does a refurbished robot last?
Typically between 8 and 15 years, depending on load, cycle count, and maintenance.
5. What are the advantages of a mobile robot over a fixed one?
Greater flexibility, optimized floor space, reduced downtime, and the ability to serve multiple lines.
6. How much does it cost to implement a refurbished mobile robot?
Costs vary depending on the robot model, platform, and integration, but are considerably lower than new systems.
7. Are refurbished robots compatible with AGVs and AMRs?
Yes, they can be integrated with pre‑configured mobile platforms.
8. Which robot brands can be refurbished for mobile use?
ABB, KUKA, FANUC, Yaskawa/Motoman, and other major brands.
9. How do refurbished robots integrate with PLC or MES systems?
Through compatible controllers, standard protocols, and communication software modules.
10. How long does installation take?
From a few days to a few weeks—much faster than new equipment lead times.
11. Can refurbished robot projects be financed?
Yes. Many providers offer leasing, operational rental, or custom payment plans.
12. Can a refurbished robot operate 24/7?
Absolutely, provided it is properly refurbished and maintained.
13. What kind of warranty do refurbished robots come with?
Typically from 3 to 12 months, with the option to extend depending on the supplier.
14. What maintenance do mobile robots require?
Standard robot maintenance plus periodic checks on the mobile platform.
15. What tasks can a refurbished mobile robot perform?
Pick & place, inspection, internal logistics, machine tending, part handling, and more.