Considering Robot Welding for my shop

[nvlong4n1]

I manufacture front end loader attachments. Currently we have 10 welding stations and I'm considering purchasing a welding robot. I've looked at OTC and ABB so far. These are the types of products we manufacture

http://www.wrlonginc.com.

Any suggestions or comments about the best type of robot. Also any suggestions of what type of options I need and what options I really do not need.

Thanks for any comments.

Nelson Long
W.R.Long Inc.
Tarboro, NC

 

[tygerdawg]

Welding is the majority market segment for robotics. The major players in the market are Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Kawasaki, Yaskawa (Motoman). All of the salesmen will tell you their's is the best. Generally all of the players will sell you the entire package consisting of robot arm, controller, software, welding unit, and workpiece positioners as required. And after sales support.

The greatest failure of robotic process implementation I have seen over & over again in 30 years is failure to comprehend how robotics will fit into the manufacturing system and the resource requirements to make it all work. It just isn't as simple as buying the robot hardware. You must also buy (or grow) the 'robot guy' to go with it. And redesign your manufacturing system so that the capital investment will meet your desired need. The robot salesmen are just that: salesmen, trying to make a sale. They typically are not manufacturing & automation engineers who understand the total system view.

I'd suggest you engage a consultant to provide some guidance before diving into unknown waters. wink, wink

TygerDawg
Blue Technik LLC
Virtuoso Robotics Engineering

http://www.bluetechnik.com