Sepro Robotics: New S-Line High-Performance Robots - Higher Speeds, Longer Axis Strokes, More Payload

New robot of the S-Line series (Image: Sepro Robotique)

(Table: Sepro Robotique)

The Sepro Group has completely redesigned its premium robots for plastic injection molding machines from 1,000 kN to 10,000 kN clamping force. The new robots of the S-Line series, debuting at K 2025, replace the 3-axis models of the S5 and the 5-axis models of the 5X series.

The three new S-Line robots are expected to be available from early 2026. Two S-15X robots will be demonstrated live at K 2025: one will be shown alongside a Success 11X from the Universal series, allowing visitors to compare the two models and recognize the advantages of the different robot types. The other S-15X robot, equipped for use in medical or cleanroom technology, can be viewed on a Sumitomo Demag injection molding machine with packaging automation.

The S-Line robots are modularly configurable:

– as a basic version with three servo-driven axes
– as a version with an additional two servo-rotational axes and a total of five CNC axes
– or for specific applications, such as use in cleanrooms in medical technology.

The S-Line robots are operated and programmed via the new Visual 4 control system, making them suitable for the entire range of injection molding automation, including complete production cells with multiple machines and robots.

According to Sepro, a robust design and the use of precise linear guides enable the robots to operate at speeds 15 percent higher, thereby achieving shorter cycle times compared to the previous version. The increased stiffness of the robot is also expected to positively impact its positioning accuracy. The demolding stroke of the Y-axis can be optionally extended by 200 mm in each model, which corresponds to an extension of the stroke length by 22 percent to 40 percent depending on the robot model. Additionally, the servo-rotational axis of the new S-Line robots is more compact than earlier models.

The maximum payload (gripper plus part weight) has been increased by 20 percent for standard models and by 40 percent when the payload capacity option is selected.

The modern industrial design of the new S-Line robots also makes a visual statement: multi-colored LED lights mounted on the robot provide an at-a-glance display of the operational status — even from a greater distance. This feature was implemented in response to direct customer requests.

Modular Strategy

With the introduction of the Success universal robots starting in 2021, Sepro began implementing a simpler modular approach for its products. This strategy not only enables standardization in manufacturing but also allows processors to configure the suitable robot individually for their application. In addition to 3- and 5-axis robots, the new S-Line now also includes optional configurations that facilitate use in cleanroom applications.

The modularity also allows the new S-Line robots to be easily adapted to complex turnkey applications, where safety enclosures, conveyor belts, part singulation and supply for overmolding of insert parts, and additional equipment can be delivered as part of integrated automation solutions. The Eco-Air option, already available for most Sepro robot series, is also offered in the standard configuration of the S-Line robots. This solution aims to optimize the air consumption of linear robots during activation by up to 90 percent.

Sepro plans to further redesign and simplify its entire product range and intends to redesign some of its large robots (for injection molding machines up to 50,000 kN) by 2026 as well.