KUKA KR180 R3500-2 K
Robot details
The KUKA KR 180 R3500‑2 K is a 6‑axis ultra‑long‑reach, heavy‑payload industrial robot engineered for maximum structural rigidity, extended working envelope, and reliable handling of very large components in the most demanding industrial automation environments.
With a payload capacity of 180 kg and an exceptional reach of 3,500 mm, the KR 180 R3500‑2 K is ideal for automotive body‑in‑white (BIW) handling, large structural assemblies, heavy material handling, palletizing, and manipulation of oversized components across extremely large workspaces.
The K‑version reinforced design features enhanced stiffness, optimized load paths, and increased resistance to torsion and deflection, ensuring high positioning accuracy, repeatability, and process stability, even at maximum reach and under dynamic loads.
The robot is powered by the KUKA KR C5 controller, KUKA’s latest‑generation control platform, delivering high‑performance motion control, advanced connectivity, and compact system architecture for modern, digitally integrated heavy‑duty automation systems.
Motion Concept and Performance
The KUKA KR 180 R3500‑2 K is optimized for controlled, stable, and repeatable motion under heavy payloads, prioritizing rigidity, precision, and long‑term reliability over aggressive acceleration.
Key motion characteristics include:
- Extremely high structural stiffness for heavy payload applications
- Stable point‑to‑point and continuous path motion
- High repeatability at ultra‑long reach
- Minimal vibration and mechanical deflection
- Reliable performance in continuous heavy‑duty duty cycles
The 3,500 mm reach enables efficient coverage of extremely large work areas without the need for additional linear axes, simplifying cell design and improving productivity.
Controller & Software – KUKA KR C5
The KUKA KR C5 controller is KUKA’s most advanced industrial robot controller, designed for high‑performance, flexible, and digitally connected automation systems, including ultra‑long‑reach and heavy‑payload applications.
Controller Highlights:
- Compact and modular controller architecture
- High‑precision motion and path control
- Improved connectivity and Industry 4.0 readiness
- Support for external axes and complex automation cells
- Advanced diagnostics and integrated safety functions
The KR C5 ensures precise robot control, high system availability, and long‑term operational reliability, even in large‑scale and high‑load environments.
Robot applications
- Press tending
- Loading and unloading of parts
- Machining
- Handling of parts
- Polishing
- Arc welding
- Spotwelding
- Palletising
- Measurement
- Laser cutting
- Laser welding Nd-Yag
- Glueing - Adhesive bonding
- Assembly of parts
General Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Robot type | Industrial articulated robot (K‑version) |
| Axes | 6 |
| Payload | 180 kg |
| Maximum reach | 3,500 mm |
| Application class | Heavy‑duty / ultra‑long‑reach industrial automation |
| Mounting options | Floor |
| Design | Reinforced “K” structure, ultra‑high rigidity |
Accuracy & Motion Control
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motion control | High‑precision position control |
| Repeatability | High, suitable for heavy‑payload tasks |
| Path accuracy | Optimized for industrial motion |
| Motion behavior | Stable, controlled, repeatable |
| Duty cycle | Continuous heavy‑duty operation |
Motor Speed & Dynamic Performance
Motor dynamics are optimized for stability and safe handling of heavy loads rather than maximum acceleration.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Axis motors | High‑torque industrial servo motors |
| Axis speed | Optimized for heavy‑load stability |
| Acceleration | Balanced for control and structural integrity |
| Trajectory control | Stable point‑to‑point and continuous paths |
| Load handling | Optimized for heavy tools and large components |
| Dynamic behavior | Minimal deflection at full payload |
Controller & System
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Controller | KUKA KR C5 |
| Control software | KUKA System Software (KSS) |
| External axes support | Yes |
| Fieldbus integration | Supported |
| Safety functions | Integrated industrial safety |
Typical Applications
- Automotive body‑in‑white (BIW) handling
- Large structural component manipulation
- Heavy material handling
- Machine loading and unloading
- Palletizing and depalletizing of large loads
- Large‑scale industrial automation cells
Key Benefits
- Ultra‑long reach (3,500 mm)
- High payload capacity (180 kg)
- Reinforced K‑version for maximum rigidity
- Stable and precise motion under heavy load
- Advanced KR C5 controller architecture
- Proven KUKA heavy‑duty reliability