Regular servicing is important for the continued health of your manipulator.
Why should you service?
Subsea electric manipulators contain several drivetrain mechanisms which require servicing to preserve their performance and value. Since they also use dynamic seals, these will wear out faster than static seals, and their lifetime will depend on how often the manipulator is used, in what conditions (temperature, pH, etc.) it is used, and how well it is maintained.
Like cars, if servicing is ignored, wear and tear can lead to unexpected field failures, downtime, and more expensive repairs.
When is it time to service my manipulator?
Reach Robotics recommends you service your Reach Alpha after 200 hours of active use or 1 year, or your Reach Bravo manipulator after 10,000 joint revolutions or 2 years, whichever comes first. Active use refers to the time the product is functioning (idle hours not included). Joint revolutions are the number of times a joint has travelled 360° around its axis. If you have a Bravo manipulator that was manufactured from April 2022 onwards, you can check the number of joint revolutions via the Health Panel in the Reach Control software (V3.4.3 onwards). For Bravo products manufactured prior to April 2022, a self-assessment will need to be made based on your history of usage.
How do I get my manipulator serviced?
A service is initiated by the client’s self-determination or based on a recommendation from Reach Robotics. When a client initiates a service request, RR’s Support team will schedule a convenient time to pick up your device. RR will aim to have your device returned within 6 weeks. Rental units are usually available if you are unable to accommodate the downtime, but this will be subject to demand.
Please contact Reach Robotics Support to book a service using the ticket link at the bottom of this page.
What does a service include?
Service of a manipulator ensures that the device leaves the factory meeting all datasheet specification values, and with maximum reliability for the next mission.
Note: servicing doesn't cover any repairs required outside of the list below. If any additional work is required, RR Support will let you know and obtain your approval before it is carried out.
| System | Item | Procedure |
| Mechanical | O-rings | Replace |
| Gears | Clean and re-lubricate | |
| Keyway systems | Check backlash and tune | |
| Crimps, connectors, wire harness | Visually inspect | |
| Internal fasteners | Check if replacement required, apply Loctite | |
| Motors | Check output torque | |
| Electrical | Electrical board | Check indicators and functionality |
| Encoders | Visually inspect and recalibrate if required | |
| Encoder boards | Check indicators and functionality | |
| Software | Software revision | Upgrade to latest software |
| Configuration settings | Check and update if required | |
| Kinematics | Check and update if required | |
| Whole | Anodising | Check for dents or damage |
| External fasteners | Check if replacement required | |
| Quality control | Perform outgoing QC and provide Certificate of Conformity (includes updating configs, update software, pressure test, insulation test, collision test, kinematics test, burn-in test, vacuum test, stow/deploy check, encoder check, climate tracking, controller test) |
How long does a service take?
The length of a service depends on which product you have. You can use the table below as a guideline for servicing lead times if we don't find that any additional repair work is required. These lead times are excluding shipping time.