Meet UR8 Long: Universal Robots’ Long-Reach, Lightweight Robot

One of the limiting specifications of a robot is its reach. As the reach of a robot increases, the payload typically decreases. This is due to the increase in cantilevered forces on the robot axes. A longer-reach robot, however, can be advantageous in certain applications like welding and bin-picking, as it can cover more space. 

At Fabtech 2025, Universal Robots revealed its newest robot, specifically designed for welding and bin-picking applications: the UR8 Long. This robot features a payload of 8 kg and an extended reach of up to 1,750 mm.

Universal Robots debuted its UR8 Long at Fabtech 2025. Image used courtesy of Universal Robots

The UR8 Long

The UR8 Long is built with the same 1,750 mm reach as the UR20, but with a slimmer profile. It features a payload of up to 10 kg (8 kg for full performance). The long-reach robot has a footprint of only 204 mm and weighs 44.7 kg, enabling it to be mounted in confined spaces while still being light enough to be moved around the factory floor for different tasks.

Users can program the UR8 Long with Universal Robot’s PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X programming softwares. These softwares feature an intuitive graphical interface with preprogrammed functions, enabling users without previous programming experience to use them.

Teaching the UR8 Long is designed to be just as simple. With a built-in force sensor and teach button, users simply move the robot where it should be and press the teach button.

Universal Robots’ PolyScope 5 software can be used to program and operate the UR8 Long. Image used courtesy of Universal Robots

Robot Controlled External Axis

Some applications require a robot to control an axis that is not a part of the robot arm. These axes are called external axes and are useful in welding applications where parts need to be rotated as they are welded, such as round parts.

The UR8 comes fully equipped with Universal Robots’ MotionPlus motion control technology, which allows for easy integration of linear axes, rotary positioners, and rotary turntables. The MotionPlus technology is capable of coordinated motion, a function that combines the tool center point (TCP) and the position of the external axis into one movement. The calculated path will then ensure that the TCP and the external axis reach their final destination at the same time.

The UR8 Long robot welding on the factory floor. Image used courtesy of Universal Robots

Robotic Welding, Picking, and Beyond

Not all welding applications can be automated; sometimes it makes sense to send in a human. For those applications where long continuous beads of weld are needed, however, a robot like the UR8 Long might just be the solution. These long-reach robots can be set up, programmed, and taught quickly—without needing a trained programmer.

Additionally, the features on the UR8 Long, such as Universal Robots’ MotionPlus technology and the 8 kg payload on a small footprint, make the UR8 an excellent choice for constrained environments while still providing an extended reach.