What is Robotic Welding: How it Works, Advantages, Welding Robots (RMT)

Robotic welding is a manufacturing process that uses industrial robots to automate welding and part handling. They are often stationary, programmed to perform the same welding operation repeatedly. Robotic welding can also be used in assembly lines and other manufacturing applications. In this era of advanced technology and automation, the robotic welding process is becoming increasingly popular and is expected to reach $6.77 billion by FYI 2029, at a compound annual growth rate of 6.2% between the forecast period of 2022–2029. Alruqee Machine Tools Company L.L.C (RMT) is a renowned distributor of capital machinery in Saudi Arabia since 1990. Our partnership with IGM ROBOTERSYSTEME AG enables us to deliver the best Robotic Welding Systems. With a commitment to excellence, we provide high-quality, advanced robotic welding solutions to meet the evolving industrial needs.

What is a Robotic Welding System?

Robotic welding has come a long way since first introduced in 1962 revolutionizing the manufacturing process with its automated welding and handling part. It can perform extreme conditions that may be hazardous to humans, reducing the risk of workplace accidents and improving the quality and efficiency of the production. Since its introduction, robotic welding technology has undergone significant advancements, offering various welding methods like MIG welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and laser welding. These systems are now widely used across various industries, including automotive, aerospace and construction, for their accuracy and consistency and safety benefits. A robotic welding system is a combination of welding, robotics, sensor technology, control systems, and artificial intelligence. It has many components, including:
  • Welding power supply: Generates heat to melt metal at the end of the torch
  • Robotic arm: Can move in multiple axes or in a linear style, such as Cartesian or gantry
  • Torch: A high-heat torch that melts metals during the welding process
  • Wire feeder: Sends filler wire to the robot
  • Control box: Allows the operator to control the robot's programs
  • Operation box: Helps to start the operation
  • Safety equipment: Such as personnel barriers, access doors, signage, gates, interlocking switches, keyed lock systems, safety mats, light curtains, and scanners
  • Sensors and cameras: For collision avoidance, seam finding, tool center point (TCP) detection, and proper weld verification
  • Software: For data collection, such as consumable use, monitoring critical parameters, and production analytics

How Does a Robotic Welding System Works

Different types of robotic welding systems use various methods to join materials, each with its own advantages and applications. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
  • Arc Welding:
  • Creates an electric arc reaching up to 6,500°F to melt the metal and form a weld.
  • One of the most common types of robotic welding.
  • Offers high-quality welds and shorter cycle times. 
  • Resistance Welding:
  • Uses high-current electricity to create a localized heat that fuses the metal pieces together.
  • Most economical form of robotic welding, ideal for heat-treating projects.
  • Commonly used in automotive manufacturing for joining sheet metal. 
  • Spot Welding:
  • A type of resistance welding, joining thin sheets of metal that resist electrical current.
  • Widely used in the automotive industry to join sheet metal frames.
  • Simple and efficient, making it the most common form of welding in the industry. 
  • Laser Welding:
  • Utilizes a laser beam to deliver precise heat for welding.
  • Offers high accuracy and is often used in high-volume applications, especially in the automotive sector.
  • Creates aesthetic, smooth seams without deformations or curvatures. 
  • Plasma Arc Welding:
  • Employs a plasma torch to create a high-temperature, high-velocity stream of ionized gas for welding.
  • Offers deep penetration and high welding speeds.
  • Suitable for welding thick materials like stainless steel and aluminum. 
General Functioning:
  • Robots receive instructions and follow a programmed path.
  • Sensors monitor the welding process and adjust parameters as needed.
  • Robots utilize various welding tools like torches and electrodes.
  • The system is typically enclosed in a safety cage. 

Get the Latest IGM Robotic Welding Systems at Alruqee Machine Tools Company L.L.C (RMT)

Alruqee Machine Tools Company L.L.C (RMT) proudly offers the latest IGM robotic welding systems, showcasing over 40 years of expertise in development. As a partner of IGM, we provide an extensive range of system modules, including the innovative RTE 400 robot series, designed for precision and versatility in welding, cutting, assembling, and more. Our Range of Robotic Welding Machines: RTi 477:
  • Rotates 540° on the vertical main axis
  • Features a 2600 mm work zone radius
  • Incorporates a camera rotation axis with continuous turning
  • Optimal set up of system components reduces transfer time by up to 30%
RTi 478:
  • Offers a work zone diameter expansion of 1400 mm
  • Features external rotation and linear axes for extending the work zone radius
  • All hose package connections and media supply lines are integrated in the main rotation axis
  • Hollow shaft wrist axes with different diameters and tool adaptors
RTi 496:
  • Provides a 1900 mm work zone radius
  • All the advantages typical of igm robots are retained
  • Hollow shaft wrist axes with different diameters and tool adaptors
  • Integrates all wire feed units inside the housing for protection against contamination
RTi 499:
  • Offers a work zone diameter expansion of 2600 mm
  • Features all wire feed units fitted with a cover for protection against contamination
  • Hollow shaft wrist axes with different diameters and tool adaptors
  • Rotates 540° on the vertical main axis
RTE 400 – ROBOT TYPES: 6-axis-welding robot, RTE 456, 476, 496 7-axes-welding robot, RTE 477, 497 7-axes-welding robot, RTE 459, 479, 499 8-axes-welding robot, RTE 478, 498

Get in Touch

Get in touch with us at Alruqee Machine Tools Company L.L.C (RMT), a renowned industrial machinery supplier since 1990. Explore our latest robotic welding systems and comprehensive range of industrial solutions. Trust our expertise for all your industrial needs.