Universal Robots Transforms Fabrication with Advanced Cobot Solutions at FABTECH 2025
Collaborative Robotics Leader Showcases Fabrication Innovations
Universal Robots will demonstrate groundbreaking cobot applications at FABTECH 2025. The event occurs in Chicago from September 8-11. The company will feature new laser welding and plasma cutting solutions. Additionally, advanced finishing applications will highlight fabrication automation evolution.
Eight Years of Cobot Welding Advancement
UR President Jean-Pierre Hathout reflected on industry progress. “Cobot welding evolves rapidly,” he stated. “We introduced North America’s first cobot welder in 2017. Today, new control features enable previously impossible applications.” The FABTECH platform demonstrates complete fabrication workflow transformation.
New Robot Model Makes Global Debut
Universal Robots previewed a specialized welding robot with enhanced capabilities. This model offers exceptional reach, stability and precision performance. It excels in challenging applications including long seams and complex parts. The robot debuts in UR’s booth and partner exhibits simultaneously.
Automated Plasma Cutting Revolution
Robotic plasma cutting represents one of cobot technology’s fastest-growing applications. It significantly improves welding efficiency and part consistency. Traditional manual cutting often produces irregular results. Conversely, automated cutting delivers weld-ready components immediately.
Partner Innovations Enhance Capabilities
Hirebotics demonstrates Cobot Cutter technology in their exhibit. This system provides precise cuts across multiple metal types. It eliminates manual rework requirements completely. The company also introduces multipass welding and AI-powered settings.
Vectis Automation advances cutting technology further with Shape Tool. This innovation enables complex shape cutting on curved surfaces. Their data dashboard captures production metrics for optimization. Enhanced software delivers advanced weave patterns and AI path optimization.
Laser Welding Reaches Mainstream Adoption
Cobot laser welding now achieves widespread industry acceptance. Safety concerns diminished through engineering advances. Control software improvements and laser cost reductions drive adoption. THG Automation’s system offers clean, fast welds with minimal distortion.
Advanced Finishing and Grinding Applications
PushCorp demonstrates automated surface finishing with UR30 robots. Their system adapts to part irregularities automatically. Ferrobotics showcases active force control technology. This solution supports fifteen different finishing tools interchangeably.
Efficient Material Handling Solutions
The UR15 robot features Schmalz’s innovative matrix gripper technology. This automated handling solution suits flat, suctionable workpieces. It reduces compressed air consumption by eighty percent. Therefore, it provides ideal sheet metal production efficiency.
Educational Opportunities and Expert Insights
FABTECH attendees access hands-on demonstrations and networking events. Will Healy III presents multiple technical sessions throughout the event. These cover automation implementation and AI integration strategies. Additionally, they address business transformation through advanced robotics.
Implementation Strategy for Fabrication Automation
Manufacturers should evaluate specific production challenges first. Then identify applications where consistency improvements matter most. Consider starting with plasma cutting for weld preparation. Gradually implement laser welding and finishing applications subsequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cobot welding different from traditional automation?
Collaborative robots work safely alongside human operators without extensive safety guarding.
How does automated plasma cutting improve welding quality?
It produces consistent edge preparation, eliminating manual grinding and rework requirements.
What safety features enable cobot laser welding?
Integrated safety sensors, enclosed work cells, and advanced control software ensure safe operation.
Can existing fabrication shops implement UR cobots easily?
Yes, most systems require minimal infrastructure changes and offer intuitive programming interfaces.
What ROI can manufacturers expect from fabrication cobots?
Typical payback periods range from 6-18 months through increased throughput and reduced rework.
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