Management and Control, Production and Technology, Industry 4.0 & Education Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly recognizing the advantages of industrial robots, with user-friendliness and costs being decisive factors in their selection. And as major automobile manufacturers have long relied on extensive robotization, these robots regularly enter the used machinery market. Purchasing used robots represents a cost-effective solution not only for SMEs.
According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), the deployment of robotics is experiencing a shift: whereas previously its main users were large companies, especially from the automotive industry, now there is growing interest among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This development is driven by the need to remain competitive. The benefits of robotics in manufacturing include ensuring consistent quality with fewer defective products and efficiency, which is reflected in lower production costs and a smaller carbon footprint. Additionally, robotics can also help reduce the shortage of skilled workers.
Used industrial robots mainly come from the automotive industry, as major automobile manufacturers are pioneers in integrating robots into production. Advantages of Used Robots for SMEs According to the IFR, user-friendliness and the cost of robots are crucial for SMEs. In this context, used equipment offers significant advantages. They are more affordable than new models, making them attractive for smaller budgets. Moreover, used robots typically contain proven technologies and are tested and optimized for a wide range of different applications. This reduces the risk of compatibility issues and simplifies integration into existing production lines. Another advantage is their availability: Used robots can often be delivered more quickly than new ones.
One of the platforms where used industrial robots are offered is Surplex.com. Surplex is one of the leading B2B auction houses for used machines in Europe – including industrial robots. Several auctions are held in this sector every month. Most of the robots sold come from renowned automobile manufacturers. Surplex offers comprehensive services covering the entire sales process to every seller, regardless of size or industry. Surplex also provides similar support to buyers, for instance, by helping clarify questions related to transport and customs clearance.
High-quality equipment from renowned manufacturers FANUC and KUKA comes from the production plant of a Czech automobile manufacturer. Each articulated robot is offered with a suitable switchgear, control panel, and cable set. The machines can be viewed by prior arrangement in Hodonín, Czech Republic. The auction is characterized by the absence of minimum prices, which allows small and medium-sized enterprises to acquire high-quality industrial robots at competitive prices.
Potential Uses of Robots in SMEs These robots, with a load capacity of 125 kg and more, originally valued in the automotive industry for their precision and load capacity, open up a wide range of applications in other industrial sectors – especially in the areas of material handling and assembly. For example, they can be used for precise gripping, moving, and positioning of parts in various production processes. In addition, they are very precise and efficient in welding.
The flexibility and economy of these robots make them a valuable investment for SMEs looking for ways to automate and optimize their production processes. The acquisition of these robots, originating from the automotive industry, offers companies not only an expansion of their existing capabilities but also opens up new possibilities for use in various industrial areas.
