What you need to know before buying an Industrial Manipulator

Choosing an industrial manipulator is not a decision to be taken lightly.

It requires careful evaluation from both the customer and the manufacturer. On one side, the company must gather as much information as possible about the intended use. On the other, the supplier must turn this information into a customized proposal. Only effective collaboration guarantees the installation of machinery perfectly aligned with actual production needs.

How to prepare for the purchase?

When contacting a manufacturer for a quote, it’s good to have some points clear:

✅ Type, size, and weight of the product to be handled

✅ Number and variety of products to manage

✅ Method of gripping and releasing the load

✅ Layout information: pick-up and release points

✅ Distances to cover

✅ Operating environment (standard, cleanroom, ATEX, etc.)

The more detailed the description, the more accurate the proposal!

Key features to consider

Lifting capacity: each manipulator is designed for a certain weight range (at Dalmec: from 6 to 1500 kg). Oversizing or improper use can compromise safety and efficiency.
Geometry and gripping points: the shape of the product influences the type of gripping tool to be designed.
Required movements: rotations, tilting, or both? Every additional function needs careful evaluation.

The crucial role of the working environment

A good manufacturer thoroughly analyzes the context:

The pick-up point (pallet, container, roller conveyor…)
The operations to be performed
The release point

Customized solutions improve comfort, safety, and speed. The type of tool may also change based on any special product features, such as holes, handles, or delicate coatings.

Range of motion and layout

The distance to cover is a key factor: if space is limited, compatible joints and movements must be studied. It’s extremely important to communicate these constraints from the start.

Materials and specific sectors

Certain sectors (food, pharmaceutical, chemical) require:

Stainless steel
Protection against dust and high temperatures
ATEX-certified components

An industrial manipulator with all these features would be unnecessary and costly in environments that do not require them. It is essential to design only what is truly needed, based on the target sector.