Self-contained robotic welding systems

Sparta specialises in laser cutting, CNC machining, investment and die castings, metal fabrications, rubber mouldings and forgings. Like any expanding, forward-thinking business, constantly reviewing and investing in the most up-to-date manufacturing processes, skills and accreditations is vital in maintaining a competitive edge. 

Sparta decided to explore the benefits of robotic welding systems and how these could help them moving forward. Following extensive research into what robotic systems were available and how these could best match their needs, the company opted for the Yaskawa Motoman ARC World V2. Based on the Motoman MA series, this 6-axis robot is designed specifically to meet the exacting demands of welding applications. With its superior wire feed system, internally routed cables and working envelopes ranging from 1440 to 2010mm, the MA-Series robot helps boost welding quality. 

Sparta felt that the Motoman ArcWorld V2 provided a very compact, self-contained system that would meet their welding requirements. Steve Davenport, managing director, comments: “It was like buying any machine tool, you pick the size of machine you need, the location to place it, and away you go.” 

This was the first of two Motoman Robot cells delivered to Sparta and it is now reaping the benefits. Davenport says: “The first machine had a pair of dowelled tables added to it to allow for quick set-up and changes of jigs which has now reduced set-up time to as little as 30 minutes, floor-to-floor time. Production is now on average more than 300% quicker than conventional (manual) welding.” 

Investing in the second Motoman machine was an easier decision as a result of Sparta realising the benefits of the first installation. Davenport confirms: “So much production work has been absorbed into the initial Motoman system that the second purchase is giving us a production capacity equivalent to six welders. This is all with the ability to never miss a weld, produce the same quality of weld at the end of the shift, as at the start, also the reduced spatter meant improved capacity for fettling.” He adds: “We are delighted with our decision to invest in robotic welding and we are looking forward to purchasing another Yaskawa Motoman unit later this year.” 

Yaskawa Motoman ArcWorld robotic welding systems are pre-engineered, pre-assembled and shipped ready to weld, delivering flexible, cost-effective options to integrate robotics into welding processes. ArcWorlds can be configured with multiple robots, a heavy-duty positioner or servo-controlled external axes for coordinated motion control.