The manufacturing industry is in constant flux. New equipment, processes, and materials are being introduced on a regular basis to stay afloat and adapt to a constantly changing marketplace. The future of manufacturing depends on being able to react quickly to demand fluctuations and new market opportunities. This article covers the top reasons why automated welding equipment is the future of manufacturing and how it will shape the industry in the future. Read on to learn more.
Robots are taking over
Robotic equipment is rapidly replacing human welders in many applications. Companies are increasingly using robotic welding systems to increase productivity, decrease costs, and improve quality. One robotic welding system manufacturer predicts that robotic welding will account for 75% of all welding by 2020. Robotic welding systems are ideal for repetitive welding operations where the welding work is highly dependent on the welder. These operations could include structural repair work, structural fabrication, pipe and industrial manufacturing, and general repair and maintenance. With robotic welding technology, companies can fill typically slow and labor-intensive positions with higher-paid robotic welders. Robotic welders are also ideal for situations where workers are at risk or unwilling to be near the welding process.
Robots don’t have to be expensive
Robotic welding systems have come a long way in the last few years. They are now not only cheaper than their human counterparts, but they are also capable of performing a wide variety of welding operations. Some of the most common robotic welding systems include arc welders, oxy-fuel welders, and robotic bristle welders. Robotic welding systems are becoming more affordable due to the improvements in technology. These systems are no longer niche products developed and sold by a few manufacturers. Robotic welding systems have become mainstream welding equipment that can be found in most welding shops. Robotic welding systems are also available as a package deal. Most robotic systems come with a variety of accessories and can perform many additional tasks.
Parts are becoming more reliable
One of the biggest challenges for any manufacturing business is consistency. To create the same product consistently, all manufacturing processes must adhere to the same standard. If a production line cannot hinge on a handful of variables that may change daily, the process will become tedious and inefficient. Manufacturers are increasingly looking to automation for help with production consistency. Robots are able to perform repetitive operations under controlled conditions. They are able to control variables such as speed, pressure, and distance to produce the same result every time. Even with the same conditions, robotic welding systems produce consistently better results than human welders. The robotic equipment is able to operate faster and with more control. The robotic equipment is also more accurate than a human welder.
There’s a growing demand for quality
Many companies are taking advantage of robotic welding systems to increase quality and control over production. One of the most common uses of robotic welding equipment is wire EDM. EDM is an automated process used to shape metal parts by drawing them along a series of rotating drums. This type of automation allows manufacturers to perform more precise forms. Wire EDM allows for a high level of quality control and consistency over production. Wire EDM is becoming a more popular production method for a reason. It is a demanding production process that requires high levels of skill and experience. However, this kind of automation allows manufacturers to perform more complex forms. Wire EDM is ideal for making gears and other intricate parts that require high levels of quality control.
Manufacturing will be more efficient
Manufacturers are embracing robotic welding systems for the same reasons as quality. Robots reduce the amount of manual labor required to perform repetitive tasks. The equipment is also able to operate more efficiently than a human welder. One manufacturer of robotic welding systems claims that robotic welding equipment can produce up to 80% of a certain task. This means that any manufacturing operation can be automated with robotic welding equipment. Manufacturers can also utilize robotic welding systems to perform a wide variety of operations. This allows them to operate more efficiently.
Welding Safety is a growing concern
More and more businesses are using robotic welding systems to reduce their welding safety concerns. One of the main concerns is that welders are being exposed to harmful levels of radiation. Welding can be a high-risk activity. Robotic welding equipment is less dangerous than human welding. Rated output levels are typically reduced compared to the levels emitted by human welders. Robotic welding equipment is also more controlled and controlled. This means that it emits less heat than a human welder working at its own pace.