Pre-engineered robotic welding cells
For several applications, robotic workcells provide automation solutions in things such as arc soldering, cutting, deburring, plasma welding, assembly, and slot welding. By automating with robot workcells, performance, protection, productivity, and quality are significantly improved.
For cell integration producers to function, there are two possibilities: pre-engineered robotic welding cells or custom workcells. The advantages and drawbacks of each choice are different. Each person must select the best choice to maximize robotic system performance for their application.
Pre-Engineered Workcells
Standardized units that are already completely integrated are pre-engineered robotic workcells. For soldering applications, the most popular pre-engineered working cells are built. Genesis, Fanuc, Motoman, KUKA, and ABB all provide standardized weld cells.
The Arc World line from Motoman is specifically designed for arc soldering applications and typically includes the MA1400 robot. Genesis’ solder cell line includes the popular FANUC Arc Mate 100iC.
Pre-engineered workcells tend to be application-specific and offer validated solutions. They are suitable for small or medium-sized components and output at low or high volumes. They are also ideal for uniform parts that do not require much repositioning.
The greatest advantage of pre-engineered cells is their fast delivery times. Workcells arrive ready to run, with minimal waiting time, allowing rapid automation. They are also more cost-effective because the complete kit is delivered fully prepared—no extra engineering time or cost.
However, pre-engineered workcells have drawbacks, including limitations handling large parts, unpredictable processes, or complex applications. Standard cells are not machine-specific, so they may require modifications to fit production needs.
Differences between custom work cells and Pre-Engineered Work cells
Custom workcells are built to a customer’s exact specifications. Manufacturers typically use custom designs when:
- Their process is more complex
- Workpieces are too large
- Parts require multiple repositioning steps
- The application cannot fit into pre-engineered cell configurations
With custom cells, users can select the preferred robot, equipment, and safety devices. A manufacturer can choose any industrial robot—such as the FANUC M-20iA, the Motoman MH24, or the ABB IRB 2600—depending on the application requirements. However, having too many options makes the process slower and more complex.
Custom workcells are also more expensive than pre-engineered cells because the system must be designed, fabricated, and installed from scratch. Delivery times are significantly longer. The integration process may require multiple adjustments during testing to ensure successful operation.
On the positive side, custom workcells are fully tailored to the manufacturer’s needs and do not require modifying the customer’s production process. They can also accommodate unusual part shapes or variable part sizes.
For inquiry please contact us at 972-352-3552 or email Anna at [email protected].
