Robotic Welding

American Friction Welding (AFW) Revolutionizes Friction Welding With Increased Productivity and Labor Reduction

AFW, North America’s largest subcontract friction welder, recently powered up its third automated friction welding cell. Once again, partnering with customers to provide innovative manufacturing solutions to combat supply chain challenges. The cell features a robotic arm that precisely loads components into an 8-ton friction welding center with part feeding and discharge automation support. The automated integration has led to a 50% increase in production and allows the operator to work on other welding projects simultaneously, saving considerable labor costs.

Robotic Friction Welding Video

Watch our video featuring a robotic high-precision welding cell dedicated to the oil and gas industry. The cell automatically welds two components following computer-controlled weld parameters to exacting standards.

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Robotic Friction Welding Video

In recent years, the field of manual welding has witnessed significant advancements, particularly in the use of robotic applications. Robotic welding processes have gained prominence due to their ability to enhance productivity and precision in various welding applications. Among these innovative technologies, robotic friction welding has emerged as a game-changer.

Robotic friction welding is a state-of-the-art technique that utilizes a robotic arm to perform precise welding tasks. Unlike traditional welding methods that rely on extreme heat and filler material, friction welding joins two metal components through mechanical friction. The process involves rotating one part against another, creating frictional heat at the interface. As the components reach a plastic state, a solid bond is formed through a forging phase. This unique approach eliminates the need for consumables or external heat sources, increasing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Robotic friction welding offers a range of benefits that contribute to high productivity. Firstly, the precise control provided by the robotic arm ensures consistent and accurate welding, eliminating human error. Additionally, the automation of the process reduces cycle times and allows for continuous operation, maximizing output.

The versatility of robotic friction welding opens doors to various welding applications across multiple industries. From aerospace to the automotive industry to construction and manufacturing, robotic friction welding will find its place in numerous sectors. We join dissimilar materials, including steel, aluminum, and copper alloys, expanding the possibilities for engineers and designers.

Robotic friction welding represents a significant leap in welding technologies, offering increased productivity, precise control, and a broad range of applications. AFW’s innovative approach, powered by industrial robots, has the potential to revolutionize the welding industry by providing high-quality and cost-effective welding solutions.

Contact American Friction Welding today for more information or to request a quote!