In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, companies are constantly seeking ways to enhance productivity and overcome labor challenges. The Wilbert Company, an employee-owned enterprise with a strong presence in North America’s fabrication sector, found their solution in advanced welding automation. This case study explores how Fanuc robotic welding systems transformed Wilbert’s operations, offering valuable insights for other manufacturers facing similar challenges.
Challenges in Rural Manufacturing
Located in Orville, Ohio, The Wilbert Company faced unique challenges:
- Labor shortages in a rural setting
- High-mix, low-volume production requirements
- Need for increased efficiency to remain globally competitive
These factors led Wilbert to explore automation as a key strategy in their 5-year growth plan for their fabrication division.
Fanuc Robotic Solutions
Wilbert implemented two Fanuc robotic welding cells, each offering distinct advantages:
Cell 1: Fanuc 710 12L Robot
- Large reach capability for expansive work envelopes
- Equipped with a headstock-tailstock positioner and a drop-center two-axis positioner
- Enables flexibility and minimizes downtime across various part types
Cell 2: Fanuc Robot on Servo-Driven Track
- Smaller robot with enhanced mobility
- Improved reach for diverse product families
- Increased throughput for multiple systems
Key Features Enhancing Precision and Efficiency
Both systems incorporate advanced features to ensure weld quality and consistency:
- Touch sensing for part variation compensation
- Through-arc seam tracking for maintaining accurate weld paths
- Fanuc Weld Pro software for offline programming, significantly reducing robot downtime
Impact on Workforce and Production
The integration of Fanuc robots has had multifaceted benefits:
- Allowed skilled welders to focus on quality control and value-added tasks
- Ensured consistent output quality
- Significantly reduced production time
- Enabled the company to take on more business without increasing headcount
Why Fanuc?
Wilbert’s 20-year history with Fanuc robots influenced their choice, citing:
- Proven dependability
- Excellent technical support
- User-friendly interface and programming software
The Bottom Line: Global Competitiveness
By leveraging Fanuc’s robotic welding solutions, The Wilbert Company has:
- Lowered overhead costs
- Improved production efficiency
- Enhanced their ability to compete in the global market
This case study demonstrates how strategic implementation of welding automation can help manufacturers, especially those in rural areas, overcome labor shortages and boost productivity. As the manufacturing landscape continues to evolve, companies like Wilbert are leading the way in showing how robotics can be a game-changer in maintaining competitiveness on a global scale.
For manufacturers considering similar automation strategies, The Wilbert Company’s experience with Fanuc robotic welding systems offers a compelling blueprint for success in the modern manufacturing era.
Learn more here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrXOiZUfIq8