The industrial robotics industry is adapting to changing times.
During the first half of 2008, a precarious U.S. economy has kept some manufacturers from buying new robots, but the used robot market is taking up the slack.
New Robot Sales Drop:
Statistics compiled by the RIA show a 23% decrease in North American new robot orders from January to June. A full 7100 robots were ordered, but robotics manufacturers continued to encounter reluctance from the manufacturing community, in particular the automotive sector.
Used Robot Sales Stable:
While new robot sales went down, used robot and robot parts orders remained steady for RobotWorx and other robot integrators. A highly affordable option, used robots sell for 60% less than new robots. They provide a great alternative for businesses looking to automate for the first time, or trying to stay within budget. In 2008, RobotWorx helped companies increase productivity through used robot systems.
Nonautomotive Industries Buy Robots:
Other statistics are more promising. RIA authorities saw a lot of growth in non-automotive fields. Robot orders from the metal industry went up 74%, while plastics and rubber companies increased their robot orders 71%. Even more impressive, companies involved with semiconductors, electronics, and photonics upped their robot orders 117%.
New Horizons:
What does the future hold? RIA expects more robots to be used in alternative energy fields. Currently, the United States has a total of 182,000 robots in use.
Curious about used reconditioned robots? Find out how much you can save by calling RobotWorx - 740-251-4312.
