Universal Robots UR18

The UR18 is the compact, high-payload member of Universal Robots' UR Series. It lifts 18 kg within a 950 mm reach and weighs 39.2 kg, a frame the maker says is light enough to support larger end effectors without overloading gantry systems. Speeds up to 4 m/s are described as keeping pick-and-place cycle times short.

Compared with the other UR Series arms

Its reach is the shortest of the UR Series heavy models, but its payload is higher than the UR15 and its weight lower than the UR20 and UR30. That makes it the choice on the page for strength in a small envelope rather than for distance. It uses the UR Series joint design, which Universal Robots says raises joint torque by about 25% and joint speed by as much as 65% against the UR3e, with roughly half the parts of an e-Series joint.

Environment and design

The UR Series page lists IP65 protection (dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets) and Cleanroom Class 4, defined by the maker as at most 10,000 particles per cubic metre of air. Tapered tubes add stiffness, and a programmable LED ring at the base shows status; three default patterns are described as complying with ISO 10218, and the light can be switched off.

Industries and applications

The page lists material handling, high-torque screw driving and assembly. For electronics manufacturing it mentions screw driving and larger assemblies in cramped cells. For automotive it names screwdriving and part handling, for metal fabrication reliable handling and stable fastening, and for food and beverage fast end-of-line case packaging with heavier cartons.

Tool connector and sibling model

The integrated M8 8-pin female connector follows ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6 and offers 12 V or 24 V power, two digital I/O and two analog inputs or one RS-485 channel. The UR18g-950 is a g-Series arm with the same payload, reach, speed and weight but a richer tool flange. No CB7 variant page was captured for the UR18.

Key facts

• Payload: 18 kg (39.7 lbs)
• Reach: 950 mm (37.4 in)
• Maximum TCP speed: 4 m/s
• Weight: 39.2 kg (86.4 lbs)
• IP rating: IP65
• Cleanroom class: Class 4
• Tool connector: M8 8-pin female, 12 V or 24 V
• Controller: CB5