Benefits of Welding Robots

Welding robots are some of the most common for industrial automation. As the demand for welding automation increases, manufacturers large and small are implementing robotic welders. When implemented properly, welding robots produce several benefits with the key ones including:

• • Solves Welder Shortages - The welding industry is experiencing an alarming shortage of welders. It is becoming harder and harder for manufacturers to find experienced welders as many have retired and fewer workers are entering the field. Automating with welding robots closes the welding skills gap. Using the FANUC Arcmate 120ic immediately gives manufacturers the quality work of an experienced welder.


• • Greater Uptime - Six axis robots can take an eight or twelve hour operation and turn it into a twenty-four hour one. Articulated robots are able to operate day and night without breaks, delays, or stoppages. This results in greater uptime which translates to increased productivity.


• • Consistent Welds - Welding robots are programmed to be extremely accurate with high repeatability. This allows them to produce high-quality welds consistently. The Motoman MA1400 is able to replicate welds with each workpiece, producing higher quality and more reliable welds than those completed by a seasoned welder.


• • Streamlines Productions - Welding robots are extremely efficient with the ability to complete the same workload as three to four welders. This means automating welding processes with robots will streamline productions as one industrial robot can take on the workload of several workers, potentially simplifying production lines.


• • Reduces Waste - Automating welding applications with robots will result in fewer errors and less rework, reducing the amount of materials used and waste overall. The accuracy of robots prevents mistakes that can lead to rework and the consumption of more materials. Welding robots are programmed to operate with the upmost precision, conserving materials.


• • Cleaner Operations - Automating welding with industrial robots will allow for cleaner operations. Since robots reduce material waste there is less post-weld cleanup. In addition, welding robots can cut down on the spatter produced during welding, keeping both the work area and workpieces cleaner than manual methods.








• • Faster Cycle Times - Industrial robots operate at much faster speeds than what humans are capable of resulting in shorter cycle times. In addition to faster speeds, robots are much more efficient and consistent in their operation. The FANUC Arcmate 100ic moves from weld to weld without hesitation, immediately starting on the next workpiece, reducing cycle times.


• • Lower Costs - Manual welding can be expensive between material costs and high salaries for welders. Welding robots can significantly reduce production costs. Using consumables and materials more conservatively will reduce material costs. Since robots do not have salaries, labor costs are eliminated.


• • Adaptable - Arc welding robots can be used to automate multiple types of welding applications. If welding processes change, they can easily adapt by being reprogrammed for a new welding process. There is no downtime related to retraining employees. For instance, the Yaskawa Motoman MA1440 can automate TIG welding and then be reprogrammed for robotic MIG applications.


• • Safer Operations - Automating welding applications with robots removes workers from being exposed to hazardous conditions associated with welding. Welding robots are enclosed by safety barriers, shielding workers from the heat, arc, and fumes produced during welding.