The robot arm uses epicyclic (planetary) gearboxes for its main axis, making it both simple and highly reliable. Its robust design makes it less vulnerable to damage compared to many competitors. The arm operates entirely with AC servo motors, and the “rams” on its sides are not hydraulic or pneumatic. Instead, they are enclosed mechanical springs. These springs and the counterweights on the back of the robot keep it well-balanced, requiring surprisingly little force to move.

The robot’s mean time between failures (MTBF) largely depends on proper maintenance, typically performed once a year. On average, IRB 6400 units last at least 100,000 hours, though many exceed this lifespan significantly. The S4-controlled IRB 6400 models come in different types, and their prices vary depending on availability. For example, models with a 3.0m reach are relatively rare.