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“When applying mechanisation, the importance of
training cannot be over-emphasised. “
to be shortened by speeding up those
work phases that are limiting the entire
production capacity.
In principle, light mechanisation is a
cost-effective and easy way to improve
manufacturing productivity in both large
and small workshops. However, light
mechanisation could certainly be used
in significantly more applications than
is the case at present. This is because
the switch from manual welding to light
mechanisation is often more difficult
than anticipated, even though the benefits
are fairly well known. The reasons for
this are likely to be found in two areas:
equipment usability and prejudices on the
part of people involved.
The quality of the sheet-metal work
also plays a major part in the success of
a mechanisation project. Poor precision
in preparation and fitting work make it
difficult to use welding carriages because
the welding parameters and torch angle
have to be continuously adjusted. This
happens, for example, when the air gap
varies as a result of fit-up cutting or
deformations in the plate.
In addition, if there are shortcomings
in the usability of the equipment then it
easily gets left in the tool store. When
implementing light mechanisation, steps
must always be taken to ensure that the
quality of the previous work phases
meets the demands of mechanisation.
A key factor is the working relationship
between the plate makers, welders and
management: they must work well
together with no friction.
When applying mechanisation,
the importance of training cannot
be over-emphasised. In switching to
mechanised welding, both employees
and management must share a clear
idea of the benefits that can be achieved,
the operation of the equipment, and
the welding tasks that are suitable. No
single mechanised unit is appropriate
for all welding tasks, and it is necessary
to reserve slightly more time to get the
equipment ready for use than is needed in
manual welding.
Training can be used to change
prejudices and avoid situations where
lack of information leads to frustrations
with equipment that does not work or is
not suitable.
Kemppi has introduced its own
welding carriage, the MagTrac F 61,
which is featured in this magazine. The
leading principle in its development has
been ease of use, with the aim of ensuring
that users will at least not miss out on the
major benefits of light mechanisation just
because their equipment is difficult to
use.
Text: Petteri Jernström
Business Manager
Welding Management Solutions
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10 Kemppi ProNews 2011