ABB Robotics and Fronius International plan to develop a fully equipped robotic welding package as part of a global agreement to collaborate and support both new and existing customers with advanced technology.
The welding pacakges will provide modular, cost-effective solutions for companies to more easily initiate or upgrade a robotic welding system. Fonius equipment will be featured at all certified ABB Robotics welding lab locations, allowing customers to conduct robotic welding trials on the latest robotic welding equipment.
ABB is featuring two new offerings using Fronius technology. The first, the ArcPack U2 with the new ABB IRB 1520ID dedicated arc welding robot with Fronius equipment, is a modular, entry-level welding cell with two fixed stations. The standard twin table configuration is ideal for small components, and can be provided as either a complete welding function package or a fully integrated cell at an affordable price. The second new product is an EthernetIP integrated communications interface for programming and operating Fronius power sources on the ABB FlexPendant, ABB’s intuitive HMI. This single point of programming will allow weld data to be controlled by the FlexPendant through the interface. ABB FlexArc cells and welding packages can be equipped with the ABB-Fronius EthernetIP interface option.
“ABB Robotics and Fronius have been working closely together for many years,” says Erwin DiMalanta, senior manager, ABB Robotics. “This formal agreement, featuring two global technology leaders in their respective segments, will take the relationship to the next level, bringing welding segment customers more affordable access to leading edge equipment, and far more intuitive, user friendly operating interfaces.”
ABB says it will continue to provide integrated welding solutions with other major suppliers of welding equipment.
