Robotic Weld Vessel Automation

The welding cell would begin once the operator moves the OVC shell that’s mounted on a cart, into position in the weld cell, and verifies the correct part information on the HMI touch screen.  The ABB IRB800 robot would move from side to side on a track to reach all the necessary locations on the OVC shell.

The weld cell operation would begin with the mounted OVC shell cart being moved into the weld cell on guide rails by the operator. Fore and aft sensors indicate to the operator when the OVC shell is in position.  Once the operator leaves the weld cell, the operator verifies that the correct part is loaded via the HMI touch screen and initiates the cycle start.

The robot moves from its home position and then selects either the carbon steel or stainless torch, depending on the program.  The robot moves over to the OVC shell and uses a laser scanner to verify the part’s specific features.  The robot moves to the first joint and scans the joint for its position.  During the program, the robot will automatically change from carbon steel to stainless steel when required.  At predetermined points in the program, the robot will move to the torch maintenance area and perform torch cleaning.  Upon completing the first side of the OVC shell the robot returns to its home position and moves down the robot travel track to the second location, and then executes the program for the second side of the OVC shell.  Upon completion, the ground mechanism retracts and the cell signals the operator to remove the part.