ESAB simplifies robotic welding deployment
ESAB has introduced the ROBBI 360, an enclosed cobot welding cell with a manual turntable that is designed to increase productivity, improve weld quality and enhance operator safety in robotic MIG/MAG welding.
Engineered for manufacturers seeking to quickly deploy an automated solution for medium- and high-volume applications, the ROBBI 360 cobot provides flexibility and user-friendly programming for quick setup and easy adjustments.
The ROBBI 360 manual load/unload turntable features a maximum payload of 150kg per side enabling users to boost productivity by up to 60% compared to cobots with a single loading station. A cobot with a turntable can easily enable an arc-on of 50 to 80%, or a 4X to 8X improvement compared to manual welding.
ROBBI 360 is delivered as a complete “plug and play” package that has been weld-tested before shipping. With the addition of power, shop air, filler metal and shielding gas, it is ready to weld. ROBBI 360 includes a Universal Robots’ UR10e cobot, a 3469 x 2228 x 2628mm cell enclosure for protection, turntable with a 1200 x 800mm work envelope, an ESAB Aristo 500ix or Aristo Edge 500R power source and matching feeder, an integrated fume extraction hood and all electrical and gas connections. The entire assembly is mounted on a skid with fork truck pockets for easy positioning and redeployment. The fully-enclosed workstation has rigid aluminium cell walls and a rugged steel base that ensures no vibration and a stable TCP (tool centre point) that prevents having to make adjustments after moving.
“With its simplicity of ordering, deployment and operation – plus our safety and health features – ROBBI 360 overcomes traditional barriers to welding automation,” says Tom van Dooren, Global Product Manager, Integrated Robotic Systems and Mechanised Solutions, ESAB.
“The ESAB Teach Tool uses a ‘no code’ or plain language program so users can effortlessly incorporate a multitude of functions that enhance performance and productivity. There is no need for a robot programmer on staff, which is often the case with small- to medium-sized operations. I like to say, ‘If you can count to three, you can program me.’ Users can easily program each side of the turntable to weld different parts!”
Safe and sturdy
ROBBI 360 provides a controlled welding environment with UV and infrared protection, integrated fume extraction hoods, noise reduction and dust and debris trays. Walls contain dark green inactinic polycarbonate DIN 5 see-through glass to protect against light from the welding arc. Pressure sensors are located throughout the Cobot arm for crash protection. Safety interlocks ensure the Cobot will not operate if the table is not correctly locked or if the doors are open. As an option, users can add ESAB’s WeldQAS automatic weld monitoring system.
Power source options
The Aristo Edge 500R power source and RoboFeed Edge robotic wire feeder offer next-generation process control and wire feeding capabilities. Aristo Edge 500R ensures precise arc starts and enhanced stability across four advanced WeldModes – THIN, ROOT, ROOT Pipe and SPEED – as well as an Advanced Pulse WeldMode. All WeldModes enhance arc stability, offer more control at faster travel speeds and reduce spatter for less post-weld clean-up. The Aristo Edge platform also empowers independent development of synergic lines and process updates.
The Aristo 500ix, paired with the RobustFeed wire feeder, delivers proven reliability in the toughest industrial conditions and features pre-programmed synergic lines for MIG and pulsed MIG applications using most welding alloys.
