The Shibaura Machine TVM series is a family of vertically articulated 6-axis industrial robots spanning 10 to 20 kg maximum payload and 1,142 to 1,726 mm reach. All three models — TVM900, TVM1200, and TVM1500 — share a common aluminum extrusion body architecture, a single 6.9 kVA power supply specification, and IP65 dust and water-jet protection as standard equipment. This makes the series particularly relevant for machine tending, die-cast extraction, and material handling in environments where coolant spray, metal fines, or washdown conditions are present.

How do the three TVM models differ?

The model number encodes the total arm length in millimeters, which directly maps to reach and inversely to payload. The TVM900, with 450 mm upper and lower arm segments, achieves the highest payload at 20 kg within a 1,142 mm work envelope — optimized for heavy-part handling in compact cells. The TVM1200 splits the difference at 15 kg and 1,432 mm, offering a balanced arm for mid-size machine tending. The TVM1500 extends to 1,726 mm with a 10 kg maximum payload, serving applications where reach into deep machine tools or across wide conveyor spans is the priority. All three maintain ±0.05 mm positioning repeatability. Composite speed scales with arm length — 8.7 m/s (TVM900), 10.7 m/s (TVM1200), and 12.0 m/s (TVM1500) — reflecting the higher tip velocity of longer arms at equivalent joint speeds.

What does IP65 standard mean for the TVM series in practice?

IP65 denotes full protection against dust ingress (first digit 6) and resistance to water jets from any direction (second digit 5). On the TVM series, this rating applies across all three models as standard rather than as an optional upgrade — a distinguishing feature in this payload class. For applications such as CNC machine tending with high-pressure coolant, die-casting cells with splash risk, or food processing lines requiring washdown, the IP65 rating eliminates the need for protective covers or enclosures that add cost and restrict access. The hollow-arm option routes gripper cabling and pneumatic lines internally, further reducing exposure points.

Frequently Asked Questions

What controller does the TVM series use?

The TVM series operates with Shibaura Machine's TSL3200E controller. The standard 5 m controller cable can be extended for larger cells. Hand I/O provides 8 inputs and 8 outputs, and φ6 × 4 pneumatic ports are integrated at the wrist for end-effector control.

Is the TVM series available in a cleanroom configuration?

As of the current product specification, cleanroom variants are listed as under development. The standard IP65 configuration is suitable for many controlled environments but has not been formally certified to ISO cleanroom classifications. Consult Shibaura Machine or your regional distributor for the latest cleanroom availability.