December Focus On…Attracting the Next Generation of Welders with Welding Cobots

What Next for Automated Welding?

Welding – an age-old craft that forms the foundation of structural stability, now standing at the edge of an evolution. Here we take a closer look into the way welding cobots are reshaping the industry.  This is a huge subject to cover so we are focusing on how Cobot will help reduce the global skill shortage in the welding industry.

An important part of the manufacturing and construction industries, welding has been the key to keeping structural integrity. However, it is dealing with an upcoming challenge—a rapidly ageing workforce.

The welding industry is at a turning point, with a clear direction towards automated welding.  To secure its future and inspire the next generation of welders, the industry must adapt to the changing landscape, focusing on innovation, efficiency and training.  By investing in welding cobots and emphasising comprehensive training and education, the welding industry can redefine itself.  It can continue to be an important part of modern infrastructure and overcome the global labour shortage.

In the welding world, automation isn’t just about robots taking over. It’s about making welding interesting for a tech-savvy younger generation. A lot of welding is still done the traditional way. But now, it’s time to bring in modern tech such as laser welding and welding cobots. Unlike old school industrial robots with complicated controls and rigid routines, cobots are made to work with human welders and have user friendly interfaces. 

Welding Cobots: Meeting Generation Z’s Expectations

Statistics and empirical data provide important insights into the role of automated welding in attracting new talent to the welding profession:

A study by the American Welding Society (AWS) found that companies that invest in automation and modern technologies have a higher rate of welder retention and are more attractive to new talent. Young welders prefer workplaces that offer exposure to innovative technologies.  

The adoption of automation in welding has significantly improved workplace safety. Automation by putting welders in a safe proximity from fumes and toxic gases has led to a reduction in welding related incidents. 

Automated welding processes are more efficient than manual welding. The increased speed of project completion attracts new talent, especially those who value efficiency and productivity.

Welding cobots have led to the development of educational programs that cater to the digital generation. Vocational schools and technical colleges offer curricula that include training in automation and automated welding, further enhancing the appeal to young individuals. 

Introducing the SmoothTool Cobot Welding Package

Rapid, in partnership with Smooth Robotics, introduce the SmoothTool Cobot Welding Package.

Embracing and investing in welding cobots and advanced machinery isn’t just a strategic move; it’s forward-thinking and visionary. These technological advancements are a response to the shortage of skilled welders and are reshaping the welding profession.

At this point it is important to mention the cobot welding solution SmoothTool, from Smooth Robotics. SmoothTool represents a harmonious blend of automation and human expertise, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of welding. It supports various welding techniques including MIG and TIG, providing a comprehensive solution for a wide range of applications.

What truly distinguishes SmoothTool is its ease of use and accessibility. It empowers operators to quickly grasp how to program it, eliminating the steep learning curve often associated with automation.

The Programming Flange: Programming Flange empowers operators to ‘teach’ the cobot how the weld should be performed. It captures and links the positions and movements of the welding arm to the control box and programming software, ensuring a seamless transition from concept to execution. 
The Intuitive Programming Software: Operating on the teach pendant, SmoothTool guides welders through the process of configuring parameters for the weld. It facilitates the step-by-step teaching of the cobot, ensuring precise execution. The software additionally allows welders to review the tool path in the 3D Viewer without actual runs, ensuring efficiency and precision.

Igniting Passion and Curiosity in a New Generation of Welders

In a world that’s increasingly turning to automation, the welding industry has a chance to reinvent itself by embracing technology and innovation. Opting for automated welding isn’t just about staying relevant; it’s also about attracting fresh talent and maintaining a vital role in today’s manufacturing and construction.

The future of automated welding looks promising, characterised by precision, creativity, and a harmonious fusion of human skills and technology.

With solutions like the SmoothTool cobot welding package, the welding scene is all set to ignite the passion and curiosity of a new generation of welders!

Having already made our own purchase, we are in the process of setting up our demonstration robot at our Portsmouth site, ready for the New Year. In the meantime why not contact one of our fabulous Sales Team sales@rapidwelding.com, and let’s work together to ensure we are all at the forefront of the welding industry.