On stand 18-640 in Hall 18, visitors will be able to see the latest developments in collaborative robots, industrial automation cells, digital engineering tools and lifecycle service offerings for metals fabrication.
Rising Demand For Automation In Metal Fabrication
“Demand for automation in metal fabrication is accelerating, especially for welding applications where 29 percent of manufacturers have identified automation as a major priority to help them meet a shortfall in skilled manual workers,” said Alan Conn, Managing Director – ABB Robotics UK & Ireland. “This trend reflects a growing need for the industry to embrace robotic automation to improve productivity and address ongoing skilled labour shortages.”
Collaborative Welding And Machine Tending On Display
Among the exhibits will be ABB’s OmniVance collaborative Arc Welding and Machine Tending application cells. The arc welding cell will demonstrate how welding processes can be automated quickly using a collaborative robot. Designed for high‑mix, low‑volume environments, the system enables operators to program welding sequences within minutes using an intuitive Easy Teach Device, reducing programming time and making robotic welding accessible to first‑time users.
The collaborative machine tending solution will show how cobots can automate repetitive loading and unloading tasks. Using standardised hardware and simple interfaces, the cell simulates a typical machine tending workflow, allowing operators to manage production through a straightforward teach‑and‑run approach.
Advanced Material Handling And 3D Vision
ABB Robotics’ FlexLoader™ FP800 high‑performance robotic cell will also be featured, demonstrating how manufacturers can automate complex material handling tasks while maintaining flexibility. Using advanced 3D vision technology, the cell will perform a semi‑structured bin‑picking application, with robots identifying and selecting randomly oriented components.
Digital Engineering And Virtual Commissioning
The stand will highlight ABB Robotics’ digital capabilities, including demonstrations of RobotStudio®, the company’s offline simulation and programming software. RobotStudio allows manufacturers to design, program and optimise robotic systems in a virtual environment before deployment, reducing commissioning time and improving overall production efficiency.
Lifecycle Support And Modernisation Services
ABB Robotics will also present its Modernisation Services, showing how manufacturers can combine robotics, digital engineering tools and lifecycle support — including upgrades and optimisation — to build smarter, more flexible factories and remain competitive in an increasingly automated industrial landscape.
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