Elevating Welding Operations with Collaborative Automation

The GoFa cobot, designed for safe and efficient collaboration with humans, delivered unmatched precision in welding applications while maintaining flexibility for complex geometries. (Image: ABB)

Mesekon Oy, a Finnish welding manufacturer that produces complex welded steel structures for the marine, energy, and paper industries, needed a flexible and collaborative solution to improve efficiency, reduce defects, and enhance workplace ergonomics by automating repetitive and physically demanding welding operations.

The company found that traditional industrial robots lacked the flexibility and collaborative capabilities needed to integrate seamlessly into Mesekon’s workflow. Recognizing the need for a more advanced solution, it set out to adopt cutting-edge automation technology to boost efficiency, ensure consistent quality, and improve employee ergonomics. Mesekon consulted with Kemppi, an integrator and designer of arc welding solutions based in Lahti, Finland.

To address the challenges, Mesekon implemented ABB’s GoFa collaborative robot, paired with Kemppi’s AX Mig Welder power supply and GXe-C cobot torch. Kemppi is an integrator and designer of arc welding solutions, based in Lahti, Finland. The GoFa cobot, designed for safe and efficient collaboration with humans, delivered unmatched precision in welding applications while maintaining flexibility for complex geometries.

The cobot was configured for 3D welding tasks, such as 90-degree saddle joints in shield piping, enabling Mesekon to transition from 2D to 3D control technology. GoFa’s advanced motion control and intuitive programming simplified operations, even for intricate and advanced welding requirements.

GoFa’s integrated torque sensors in each joint provide superior power and force limiting performance, significantly transforming welding operations. By delivering smooth, accurate, and repeatable welds, GoFa surpasses the precision and consistency achievable through manual welding. As precision is particularly critical for handling complex geometries, GoFa’s capability to weld continuously at 430 amperes without requiring cooling interruptions has supported Mesekon’s 24/7 operations, significantly boosting efficiency and resulting in a 40 percent increase in productivity.

“GoFa isn’t just a tool; it’s part of our team. It combines precision and reliability, allowing us to meet our customers’ stringent standards while exploring new possibilities in welding,” said Tero Nättiaho, Sales Director at Mesekon Oy.

The cobot’s intuitive interface, paired with Kemppi’s AX Mig Welder presets, has also simplified setup and programming, making it easy for operators to adapt to new tasks. This user-friendly design of the robot has ensured a seamless integration into production processes, enhancing workplace safety and ergonomics while also enabling operators to work at a safer distance from hazardous welding areas.

The cobot was configured for 3D welding tasks, such as 90-degree saddle joints in shield piping, enabling Mesekon to transition from 2D to 3D control technology. (Image: ABB)

The collaboration between ABB and the equipment manufacturer Kemppi has resulted in the successful deployment of GoFa cobot at Mesekon’s facility. This partnership showcased the seamless combination of cutting-edge technology and domain expertise to meet Mesekon’s demanding requirements. Artturi Salmela, Product Manager for Automation at Kemppi, believes that the strength of this collab-oration has driven advancements in welding automation, ranging from smaller cobot cells to complex industrial automation systems.

“ABB is a highly valued partner for Kemppi, thanks to their strong expertise and solid position in automation. It’s crucial for us to collaborate with a partner who can ensure that production at the end customer’s facility is operational quickly,’’ said Salmela.

Mesekon’s team collaborated closely with ABB to integrate the GoFa cobot into their production line. The production operator, Roni Rautala, participated in testing and deployment, ensuring the cobot was fully optimized for their specific needs.

“Positioning GoFa is intuitive, fast, and precise. Its performance exceeds what human hands can achieve, particularly with complex geometries,” said Rautala.

The partnership has allowed Mesekon to remain on the cutting edge of welding innovation, fostering continuous improvement in both technology and processes.

The successful deployment of ABB’s GoFa cobot at Mesekon has set a benchmark for integrating advanced automation into challenging environments. This achievement not only highlights the cobot’s technical capabilities but also demonstrates a replicable model for other industries seeking to enhance their operations through automation.

This article was contributed by ABB (Zurich, Switzerland). For more information, visit here .