Stäubli MPS 260 Modular Tool Changer Review: Specs, Price and Applications

The Stäubli MPS 260 Modular is an automatic tool changer for payloads up to 350 kg, offered as the MPS 260 and a higher-moment MPS 260S.
The MPS 260 handles 2,000 Nm static and 7,000 Nm dynamic moment; the 260S raises this to 2,500 and 8,750 Nm. Both repeat to 0.01 mm, stand 67 mm coupled, offer 7 to 14 module places and use an ISO 9409-1-125-11-M10 flange.
Quick Verdict
A heavy-duty modular changer built for body-shop robots carrying large guns and grippers.
Stäubli MPS 260 Modular Tool Changer at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Product type | Automatic robotic tool changer |
Family | MPS MODULAR |
Max. payload | 350 kg |
Max. static moment | 2,000 Nm (260S: 2,500 Nm) |
Max. dynamic moment | 7,000 Nm (260S: 8,750 Nm) |
Locking | Pneumatic ball locking, 0.5 – 1.0 MPa |
Repeatability | 0.01 mm |
Height (coupled) | 67 mm |
Robot flange | ISO 9409-1-125-11-M10 |
Module places | 7 to 14 |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
An automatic tool changer splits into a robot-side master plate and a tool-side plate. A pneumatic locking mechanism, here ball locking, clamps the two together, while transmission modules pass air, vacuum, coolant, signals and power across the joint so one robot can run many tools.
Stäubli's MPS line comes in three families: MPS COMPLETE, pre-configured units for standard jobs; MPS MODULAR, where the buyer chooses coupling technology and transmission module positions; and MPS CUSTOMIZED, engineered units for very large payloads and many modules.
Static moment rates the load the coupling holds at rest, while dynamic moment covers acceleration and braking during fast robot motion. Size the changer on the dynamic value with the tool's centre of gravity offset included.
Integration and Selection
Match the robot adapter to the flange standard listed, then pick transmission modules for every medium the tools need: air, vacuum, coolant, signals, power and data.
Plan tool stands, tool identification and locking sensing in the robot program so a change cannot start unless the tool is seated and locked.
Check the coupled height against reach and tool clearance, and size the air supply to the locking pressure range.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Automotive | Body-in-white gun and gripper exchange |
Heavy equipment | Large part handling |
Foundry | Casting handling tools |
Aerospace | Heavy fixtures |
Functional Uses
Spot welding gun exchange
Large gripper changes
Body-shop tooling
Pros and Cons
Advantages
350 kg capacity
High-moment S version
Up to 14 module places
Limitations
Requires large robot
Who Should Consider the Stäubli MPS 260 Modular Tool Changer?
Automotive plants, integrators and manufacturers that run several tools on one robot and need a changer rated to 350 kg.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. Stäubli prices the MPS 260 by base unit, transmission modules, adapter plates and tool stands.
Further Reading
Stäubli MPS 260 Modular Tool Changer FAQ
What payload does the MPS 260 handle?
Up to 350 kg.
What repeatability does it offer?
0.01 mm.
What media can it transfer?
Pneumatics, vacuum, cooling, signal and power supply and primary current through transmission modules.
How does it lock?
Pneumatic ball locking at 0.5 to 1.0 MPa.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on configuration; request a quote from Stäubli.





