A practical solution with hand-welding roots

Unlike many cobot systems that are entirely robot-centric, Kemppi focuses on providing welding equipment and integration technology rather than the robot itself. This approach keeps costs reasonable while leveraging operators’ existing skills and equipment.

“Our solution builds on proven hand-welding technology,” explains Artturi Salmela, Product Manager at Kemppi. “We combine this with our tailored components, like the DCM interface and the Flexlite GXe cobot torch, to enable smooth communication between the power source and the cobot.”

At the core of this system is the DCM device, which connects to the bus interface of Kemppi welding machines and translates it to the robot's fieldbus system. The DCM acts as a full robot interface, providing essential functionalities such as signal tracking and fault management. Salmela highlights the efficiency: “Compared to many competitors, this approach is much more cost-effective, yet it delivers full robot-level communication.”

Kemppi’s cobot solution integrates seamlessly with Master M and X5 FastMig power sources. The Master M is popular for its compact size, high performance, and cost-effectiveness.

A purpose-built torch for ease of use and performance

The Flexlite GXe-C cobot torch is an integral part of Kemppi’s solution. Designed to optimize both usability and performance, the torch offers features that streamline the operator’s workflow without requiring complex cobot programming.

Eetu Kivioja, Director, Commercial Development at Kemppi, describes its key strengths:

• Function buttons: Operators can control essential functions – such as wire feeding, retraction, and gas testing – directly from the torch.

• Optimized wire feeding: The torch ensures top-tier performance in wire feed and liner operation.

• Adjustable design: The torch can be equipped with versatile mounting arms and flanges for different welding positions.

Kivioja emphasizes the ease of transition: “The consumables are the same as those used in manual welding, making maintenance straightforward and cost-effective. Moving from hand welding to cobot welding is simple because you can build on your existing equipment.”

Compatibility and versatility across industries

One of the standout features of Kemppi’s solution is its compatibility with leading cobot brands, including Universal Robots, Fanuc, ABB, and Yaskawa. This flexibility allows companies to work with the integrators and robots that best suit their needs while benefiting from Kemppi’s robust welding tools.

“We aim to be as open as possible and collaborate with a wide range of integrators and cobot manufacturers to ensure broad compatibility.”

Artturi Salmela

Kemppi’s cobot solution is ideal for workshops of all sizes:

• Small and medium-sized businesses: A practical first step into automation using existing welding tools.

• Large-scale operations: A compact and portable system that can be easily moved across workstations – a major advantage in environments like shipyards.

Addressing labor shortages and boosting productivity

The global shortage of skilled welders is an ongoing challenge for the industry. Kemppi’s cobot solution offers a way to maximize the productivity of skilled operators. “One skilled welder can operate two or three cobots simultaneously,” Kivioja explains. “This allows companies to achieve higher throughput while maintaining quality.”

Importantly, cobots don’t replace welders – they support them. By automating repetitive and physically demanding tasks, cobots enable skilled professionals to focus on more complex work, enhancing job satisfaction and safety.

The future of cobot welding: Simplicity meets advanced technology

As automation evolves, cobot welding will continue to bridge the gap between manual welding and fully automated robotic systems. Salmela foresees increasing levels of automation while maintaining cobots’ hallmark ease of use.

Kivioja adds that technologies like enhanced machine vision and advanced seam tracking, driven by artificial intelligence, will play a key role in improving welding quality and traceability. “These advancements will further optimize productivity and ensure consistent quality,” he says.

Why choose Kemppi’s cobot solution?

Kemppi’s cobot solution provides an accessible, scalable path to welding automation:

• Cost-effective: Built on proven hand-welding technology.

• Flexible and compatible: Works with leading cobot brands.

• User-friendly design: Simple, efficient tools like the Flexlite GXe torch and DCM interface.

• Comprehensive support: Backed by Kemppi’s global service and maintenance network.

Kemppi cobot welding solution's compatibility with cobots

Salmela summarizes: “Our collaboration with integrators and cobot manufacturers, combined with our extensive support network, sets us apart in the market.”

Kivioja adds: “Kemppi’s decades of expertise in arc welding are now driving practical, high-performing solutions in cobot welding.”