Preparing the published article.
Duty Cycle and Continuous Operation Limits
Running continuous shifts changes what the robot can do.
What the duty cycle affects
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Motor heating | Sustained high torque raises temperature |
| Gearbox life | Rated hours assume a representative load spectrum |
| Accuracy | Thermal growth shifts positioning over a shift |
| Duty rating | Manufacturers quote duty at a specified load and cycle |
Practical measures
- Compare your actual load profile with the rated profile, not just the peak.
- Allow warm-up time before precision work begins.
- Review maintenance intervals if you run three shifts.
Duty ratings are defined under stated conditions. Check them against your real cycle.