SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) robots are compact, high-speed pick-and-place and assembly robots with a rigid vertical axis and compliant horizontal axes. They excel at fast horizontal movements, tight repeatability, and small footprints, making them ideal for electronics assembly, packaging, and light machine tending. SCARAs offer high cycle rates and simple programming but have limited vertical reach and flexibility compared with multi-axis articulated robots.
Check payload, horizontal reach, repeatability, cycle time, wrist axes, controller type, and mounting orientation. Also confirm electrical requirements and available I/O for your end effector and PLC.
New gives warranty and latest controllers; used can be cost-effective if well-documented. For used units verify maintenance history, encoder and motor condition, controller firmware, and run a factory acceptance test.
Ship in original or custom crating with vibration dampers. Secure the arm in transport position, remove or lock bearings if required, and insure against shock. Use rigid rigging—shift-sensitive components need protection from heavy handling.
Plan for a flat, vibration-free mounting surface, proper power and grounding, network connections, and safe workcell guarding. Expect onsite robot parameter tuning, end-effector setup, and controller-to-PLC/vision integration.
Regular checks every 3–6 months: inspect cables, connectors, belts or harmonic drives, lubricate as manufacturer specifies, verify encoder signals and backlash. Replace wear items per hours or cycles and follow the OEM schedule.
Often yes if mechanical interfaces and payload limits match. Verify flange compatibility, signal/electric connections, and that the tool weight doesn’t exceed the robot’s dynamic payload rating.
Ensure compliance with local machinery safety standards (e.g., ISO 10218, ISO/TS 15066), proper guarding or rated safety controllers, emergency stops, and documented risk assessment for collaborative or fenced cells.
Confirm the controller supports the communication protocols you need (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, TCP/IP). Many SCARA controllers have built-in vision interfaces or SDKs for third‑party cameras; budget for software tuning and I/O mapping.