Turning Heads at FABTECH: Modular Track System with Air Bearings Moves 7,000 Pounds
At FABTECH 2025, Güdel Inc. introduced a novel automation solution that drew significant attention: a modular track system fitted with air bearings capable of moving 7,000 pounds with extraordinary flexibility and portability.
Known for its robust robot track systems and heavy-payload gantries, Güdel continues to expand its range of automation solutions by helping system integrators solve real-world challenges on the shop floor.
The modular track system with air bearings was developed to address two major constraints in manufacturing environments—mobility within large workspaces and facility layout limitations. “This was an application-specific solution,” said Mike Peek, marketing manager at Güdel Inc., explaining how an integrator approached the company with a challenge: move a precision paint robot in and out of place without embedding tracks in the floor. “Our engineering team delivered a new product that allows the entire track to be moved into and out of the work cell when needed.”
Using only 5 psi of air pressure, the air-bearing system levitated the TMF-4B track and a FANUC M900iB/280L robot—together weighing more than 7,000 pounds—half an inch above the ground, allowing the unit to float smoothly into and out of position on a cushion of air.
This solution was initially engineered for aircraft painting applications, eliminating the need for cranes, high-payload forklifts, AMRs or embedded rails. It allows manufacturers to reposition heavy automation cells with precision and minimal infrastructure changes.
Güdel also showcased the CoboMover, an adaptable system that extends the working range of robots up to 5 meters (16.4 ft.), enabling a single robot to operate across multiple workstations without manual repositioning. Compatible with more than 60 cobots and small industrial robots, the track offers mounting at 0° and 180° positions. It supports a maximum payload of 78 kg (172 pounds), including the robot, and is powered by a toothed belt and Güdel’s HPG045 angular gearbox. Available stroke lengths include 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 and 5,000 mm.
Gliding on a cushion of air – moving 3–½ tons by hand. Güdel Inc.’s Brenda Courim, head of sales, described the benefits of the modular track system fitted with air bearings, which garnered lots of attention at FABTECH 2025.
