INDUSTRY News RBTX & DOBOT PARTNER LAUNCH A SUCCESS
igus UK marks a major milestone in accessible automation with the successful launch of its RBTX partnership with DOBOT Robotics at an Open Day held at company’s UK HQ at the end of January. The event brought together engineers, system integrators, manufacturers, traditionally associated with industrial automation. For many Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), a barrier to the implementation of robotic systems and automation is often cost and complexity. To overcome these issues, the RBTX online hardware/software and peripherals. The ready-to-go systems implement systems, with customer support available for selection, customising and commissioning. The DOBOT range of collaborative robots is now available
DOBOT arms, compatible accessories and complete automation systems on the RBTX website. Live demonstrations at the Open Day showcased collaborative robotics, sensor technology, and motion control solutions designed to support both emerging and established industries. A key highlight of the event was the giveaway of a DOBOT Nova 5 collaborative robot, designed to empower businesses to automate Founder of 3D Food Robotics in Leeds, perfectly embodies the spirit that are struggling with higher costs of manufacturing,” said
3D Food Robotics operates at the intersection of robotics, additive manufacturing, and food technology, developing cutting-edge and scaled all while reducing costs. By winning the DOBOT Nova robotic arm that will play a crucial role in expanding the company’s automation capabilities.
the Nova 5 go to a business like 3D Food Robotics highlights how collaborative robotics are reshaping industries in entirely new ways.” As RBTX continues to grow, igus remains committed to supporting innovators, helping broaden the boundaries of what automation can achieve, one application at a time.
https://rbtx.co.uk/en-GB
ABB COLUMN
WHY SERVICE SUPPORT IS THE KEY TO LONG-TERM SUCCESS WITH ROBOTS
A well-maintained robot can last 20 years or more, with some now enjoying a second or even third life after refurbishment. This longevity is a powerful example of circular economy thinking in industrial automation. Such outcomes are no accident. Maximising long-term value from
robotic systems depends on correct use, effective maintenance, and designs that make refurbishment practical and cost-effective. Training: Training is essential to ensure operators and in-house service teams can use and care for robots correctly, maximising performance and uptime. Training helps maintain safety standards, especially where people work alongside collaborative robots (cobots). Training should never be viewed as a one-off activity. As production demands evolve, skills must be kept up to date to ensure systems continue to run safely and efficiently. Suppliers are typically best placed to deliver this support. At our UK training facilities in Milton Keynes, we train over 1,000 students every year through a combination of hands-on courses, e-learning, and webinars, helping them get the most from their automation investments. Maintenance: Long-term maintenance is another critical consideration. Again, suppliers are often the preferred choice, offering service agreements that provide predictable lifecycle costs while minimising unplanned downtime. For most manufacturers, letting experts manage robot upkeep allows internal teams to stay focused on core operations.
Smart services, including preventive maintenance, condition monitoring, and data-driven advisory packages, can reduce total cost of ownership over a robot’s lifetime. Cost-effective options such as flat fees for spares and labour also help improve budgeting certainty. Modernisation: Refurbishment and repurposing further demonstrate the benefits of a circular approach, extending equipment life and reducing waste. Up to 80% of an ABB robot can be reused, reducing waste and maximising the life of our robotic components. ABB’s Modernisation Services include remanufacturing and workshop repairs to restore even heavily used robots, alongside retrofits and replacements that ensure systems keep pace with changing production needs. Buy- back options are also available for robots that are no longer required. Long-term service support protects uptime and productivity, enhances safety and sustainability, and delivers consistent returns over decades. Successful automation is not just about choosing the right robot; it’s about choosing the right partner too. Alan Conn, Managing Director, ABB Robotics UK & Ireland
automationmagazine.co.uk
Automation | February 2026
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