ISMR May 2024 | Page 65

PRODUCT REVIEWS

GoFa cobot welding package

ABB ’ s GoFa collaborative robots are designed for performance , safety and collaboration .
“ By helping to simplify the use of collaborative robots in welding applications , GoFa presents an exciting solution to the growing shortage of skilled industrial welders that is challenging many manufacturing companies . Our new GoFa arc welding package promises to revolutionise welding processes . The Cobot Arc Welding Package is a breakthrough solution that dramatically simplifies creating and executing welding sequences . The main innovation is the Easy Teach Device which uses lead-through programming and interactive buttons to determine weld points ,” Paul Garner , Account Manager Collaborative Robots , ABB , told ISMR .
With a growing worldwide shortage of experienced welders , companies need easy-to-use automation solutions to stay ahead of the game . The Cobot Arc Welding package has been developed to reduce the complexity of robotic welding and lower the barriers to automation for SMEs and firsttime users ( like manual welders ).
“ Fitted on our award-winning GoFa Cobot , the Cobot Arc Welding Package is the first of its kind to enable users to program a robot without using a teach pendant . Using the Easy Teach Device , users can automatically generate the programming code by simply guiding the robot ’ s arm along the welding path . With the ability to cut down programming time by about 70 per cent , the Cobot Arc Welding Package is a gamechanger for the global welding market ,” outlined Paul Garner .
Operational benefits
With the Easy Teach Device , users no longer need hours of training to use the device , making it suitable for high-mix , low-volume tasks . Welding sequences are automatically generated on the teach pendant , so that
users can create and execute welding sequences in less than 30 seconds , cutting typical overall programming time by 70 per cent according to ABB .
“ With GoFa ’ s positional accuracy and superior leadthrough programming , users are assured of high-quality welding , every time . All major operations are achieved with the easy-touse device on the robot arm , making it simple and intuitive to use ,” explained Paul Garner .
All major components ( including the robot , gripper , software , service etc .) can be bought from ABB , making it easy for anyone to buy and set up the device .
“ The improvements delivered by the Cobot Arc Welding Package can help businesses to increase productivity , overcome labour shortages and operate more efficiently by automating welding processes . Using the package to assist with welding tasks can help augment worker performance and enable existing workforces to be deployed more efficiently , for example by carrying out additional welding tasks on other products . By seamlessly integrating into existing workflows and promoting efficient collaboration , the package has the potential to drive productivity and efficiency in welding applications to new heights ,” concluded Garner .
For more information , see https :// bit . ly / ABBCobotArcWeld n
https :// global . abb / group / en
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