Welding automation isn’t just for big OEMs with massive budgets. Collaborative robot (cobot) welding has opened the door for small and medium fabrication shops to automate repetitive welds without the complexity and costs of traditional robotic cells.
But what exactly is cobot welding, and is it right for your operation?
What Is Cobot Welding?
Cobot welding uses collaborative robot arms to automate welding tasks. Unlike industrial robots that need safety fencing and complex programming, cobots are designed to work safely around people and be easier to teach.
At Spartan Robotics, our welding cells are built around Kassow Robots 7-axis arms paired with proven Fronius TPS/i MIG packages. These solutions deliver the reach, flexibility, and reliability small shops need without overcomplicating the process.
How Spartan’s Cobot Welding Cells Work
Every Spartan cell is designed to be turnkey while giving fabricators the flexibility to handle real-world production challenges.
Robot: Kassow’s 7-axis collaborative robot offers unique motion freedom. That 7th axis means fewer part repositions, easier access to tight weld joints, and more natural torch angles—without external positioners.
Welding Package: Integrated Fronius TPS/i MIG system, known for excellent arc quality and repeatable performance.
Fixtures & Design: Custom fixtures tailored to your parts for consistent setups and easy changeovers if needed.
Programming & Training: Simple, intuitive programming interface with virtual or on-site training so your team can run the cell with confidence.
Benefits of Cobot Welding for Fabricators
For job shops and smaller manufacturers, cobot welding isn’t about replacing welders—it’s about making their time more valuable.
Key advantages:
- Consistent Quality: Repeatable welds reduce rework and scrap.
- Improved Throughput: Automate repetitive welds so your team can handle more work.
- Better Use of Skilled Labor: Free up experienced welders for challenging work instead of repetitive seams.
- Compact Footprint: Collaborative robots don’t require massive fenced-off areas.
- Scalable Investment: Start with one cell and grow as you need.
Is Cobot Welding Worth It for Your Shop?
That’s the big question. It depends on your parts, volume, and goals.
It’s a great fit if:
- You have repetitive parts that don’t require constant programming changes.
- You’re facing skilled labor shortages or want to reduce turnover.
- You want to increase capacity without adding headcount.
- You value consistent, high-quality welds.
It might not be the right move if:
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Your shop ONLY does one-off jobs with constant variation.
- Your volume is too low to justify the investment today.
How Spartan Robotics Can Help
Our approach is different. We don’t just sell robots—we deliver complete welding cells designed for real-world fabrication.
- We’ll evaluate your parts and processes.
- Design a custom, turnkey solution that fits your needs.
- Provide virtual or on-site training and support so your team is confident from day one.
- Stand by you after installation with service and upgrades.
If you’re thinking about cobot welding, let’s talk. We’ll give you an honest assessment of whether it’s right for your shop, and if so, help you get it running smoothly.
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What Is Cobot Welding—and Is It Worth It for Your Shop?