It’s the age old story of man/woman VS machine. Before technology became so complicated that manuals began to look like dictionaries, there were smart, hard-working men and women working tirelessly behind welders to make the most sturdy, reliable products on the market. Will the future (and near present) of welding be taken over by robots?
What is Robotic Welding?
The two most popular types of welding robots are the articulating and rectilinear robots.
+ Articulating robots are built to rotate their “arms” in movements that mimic humans.
+ Rectilinear robots moves in X, Y, Z, and rotational movements. Basically, you can program them to move in linear patterns and their attached wrist allows for rotational movement.
How Do Robotic Welders Benefit Companies?
+ They can complete the work of multiple welders in a much faster time.
1 robot = 3 or more welders
+ Robots don’t need to have degrees, training, experience, etc. in order to perform the job adequately
+ Robots don’t need dental, or take bathroom breaks, or get “sick.”
+ They can be programmed to perform the same function repeatedly with the same results each time. Accuracy (in the midst of monotony) is the gem here.
+ Because of its automation and consistency, safety hazards are cut down dramatically. With welders, you have to worry about proper equipment, that they understand and practice good welding safety habits, etc.
+ Again with the consistency: less mistakes = less money spent on replacement materials
+ They can make much of the same movements that humans can, as I explained above, such as approach the work from various angles to get the best possible weld.
All of these benefits result in the biggest benefit of all: less money out of pocket for companies.
So what would your argument be to an employer that wanted to start using robotic welding? How would you convince them that a man/woman is always better than a machine?