Robotic Welding Automation Keeps Manufacturers Competitive
Robotic Welding Automation Keeps Manufacturers Competitive
As manufacturers struggle to find viable options to stay profitable, they are turning to robotic automation to combat a fragile economy coupled with the shortage of skilled welders. Gases and welding distributors should not be caught off guard when a customer comes for guidance on adding automated cells, advises Brian Doyle, welding automation sales manager at Miller Electric Mfg. Co. His article, "The Future of Welding In Manufacturing," appears in the Spring 2011 issue of Welding & Gases Today, the leading magazine for the gases and welding equipment industry.
While distributors rely on long-term relationships with their customers, those customers face the loss of business if they become uncompetitive. Distributors have the chance to present robotic automation to their customers as part of their service portfolio to help them remain competitive. "Automation is a key element to the future of manufacturing," says Doyle. "Everyone in the welding industrydistributors, management and end-usersshould embrace robotic welding as an option."
"What is frightening for most welding operators is that they believe a robot will place him or her," continues Doyle. "Automation is not the answer for all welding applications, and an experienced welder is crucial for a successful robotic welding process. A company that embraces automation technology will be profitable and grow. Growth means more jobs, not less."
To find out how distributors and suppliers are partnering to deliver robotic welding automation, view "The Future Of Welding In Manufacturing," (http://www.weldingandgasestoday.org/index.php/2011/03/the-future-of-welding-in-manufacturing/) at Welding & Gases Today online. For more information, contact Devin O'Toole, contributing editor at Welding & Gases Today at devin@weldingandgasestoday.org or 315-445-2347.
Founded in 1945, the Gases and Welding Distributors Association (GAWDA) is the premier source for manufacturing knowledge, education and networking. Through its member journals, e-magazines, newsletters and industry wiki, GAWDA connects suppliers of gases and manufacturers of related equipment as well as manufacturers of welding equipment and distribution leaders, for the purpose of safely delivering optimal solutions to the users of those products. GAWDA publications are the industry's voice for all matters related to the latest technology and the most up-to-date processes spanning welding equipment and products and services related to industrial, medical, specialty and cryogenic gases. A 501(c)3 organization, GAWDA members are located throughout North America.