It’s a well-known fact that the European Union faces a shortage of skilled welders (and WELDNET is working to try and fix that!) but what if the solution isn’t more welders? Maybe existing welders can work smarter, not harder with cobots! Read on to learn more!
What are Cobots?
Collaborative robots, or cobots, are robots designed to work safely alongside humans in shared workspaces. Unlike traditional industrial robots, which typically operate behind safety barriers, cobots are equipped with sensors and safety features that allow them to assist workers with repetitive, physically demanding or precision-based tasks. They are generally easier to program, more flexible, and more cost-effective, making automation accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Examples of cobot applications include:
- Welding: Automating repetitive welds while operators oversee quality and setup.
- Machine tending: Loading and unloading CNC machines or presses.
- Assembly: Assisting with repetitive assembly and fastening tasks.
- Pick-and-place: Handling, sorting, and packaging products.
- Quality inspection: Using cameras and sensors to inspect parts for defects.
- Material handling: Moving components between workstations or production lines.
These capabilities make cobots particularly valuable in industries like welding that are facing labour shortages, increasing production demands, or a need for greater consistency and efficiency.
Cobots in Welding
Cobots, are becoming an increasingly popular solution in the welding industry, helping metalworking companies, including SMEs, boost productivity, quality and competitiveness, all while addressing a growing shortage of skilled welders.
Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots are flexible, easy to program, and designed to work safely alongside people, making automation accessible and cost-effective even for smaller manufacturers that previously couldn’t justify the purchase of a full robotic welding cell.
Addressing the industry’s core challenges
SMEs in particular face a difficult combination of pressures: rising costs, increasing product complexity, stricter quality standards, and a persistent shortage of skilled welders. Cobot welding directly addresses these challenges by automating repetitive welding tasks, freeing up experienced welders to focus on higher-value, more complex work, while also improving overall efficiency and working conditions.
Importantly, cobots aren’t designed to replace welders rather to work alongside them. By handling consistent and repetitive welds while skilled personnel remain responsible for programming, supervision, and quality control.
Key benefits of cobot welding
- Increased productivity through consistent, high-precision welding
- Relief from labour shortages by automating repetitive tasks
- Improved workplace safety and reduced physical strain on workers
- Fast setup and simple programming, with a quick return on investment, often within months
Cobots are best suited to high-volume, relatively simple welding tasks. Complex welds and demanding environments still require the expertise of skilled welders.
Cobots in WELDNET
WELDNET offers various micro-courses in welding, and the use of new and accessible technologies are a big part of it. Cobots are a part of these courses and will help both teachers and students develop their knowledge and prepare them for using cobots in the future. Being familiar with programming and the use of cobots will make students attractive candidates for employment at SMEs.
As the skilled welder shortage continues to grow, cobot welding is emerging as a practical, scalable way for manufacturers, especially SMEs, to stay productive and competitive. WELDNET will prepare the new welding professionals for Cobot welding!
