Industrial robots have been established for years as a proven solution for the automation of welding processes. They offer high speed and precision, resulting in improved welding quality. Another advantage of industrial robots is their ability to handle heavy and unwieldy parts. However, these robots require high investment costs and extensive programming skills. They are therefore often too complex for the production of small batch sizes, for use in small and medium-sized companies or for special applications such as the welding of reinforcements.

In comparison, welding cobots are much easier to programme. Their low investment costs enable rapid amortisation, which makes them particularly attractive for smaller manufacturing companies. However, one disadvantage of standard welding cobots compared to industrial robots is often their limited radius of action and working area. With the new mbk welding cobot, however, this disadvantage is a thing of the past.

DSM-L (Line)
The DSM-L (Line) model was specially developed for the manufacture of long reinforcement elements and is suitable for a wide target group – from small steel companies to precast concrete plants. “The DSM-L can process components up to eight metres in length, which was previously only possible with industrial robots. We thus offer a unique solution on the market,” says Mario Pfender, Managing Director of mbk. The cobot travels on an eight metre long linear axis and thus covers the entire working area. In addition to the robot, the welding power source, the wire supply, the welding fume extraction system and the torch cleaning station also move. The integrated 3D welding table has an impressive size of 8400 x 1395 mm.

Very high safety at full performance
Safety is the top priority at mbk. Protective welding walls around the welding cell protect the operator from electric arcs and eye damage. Laser scanners monitor the working area and ensure that the cobot stops immediately if an operator gets too close to the working area. These safety precautions make it possible to achieve the maximum movement speeds of an industrial robot without jeopardising safety.

Simple operation and flexible programming
The mbk Cobot impresses with its user-friendly interface. The software was specially developed and optimised for the cobot and the welding process. The multifunctional handle serves as an interface between the robot and the operator. Teaching involves manually moving the welding torch to the desired welding spots. Start, end and intermediate points are saved at the touch of a button. Whether you are an experienced programmer or a beginner – professional welding programmes can be created in just a few minutes. The entire process can be simulated before the actual welding so that the operator can make adjustments if necessary.

Efficient work in alternating operation
Another highlight of the mbk Cobot DSM-L is its special design, which enables efficient work in alternating operation. The workspace can be divided into two areas by a partition wall. This arrangement creates space for two working areas, so that the operator can set up or clamp workpieces on one area while the cobot is already welding on the other. This significantly increases productivity.

Welding is a demanding, physically strenuous activity that requires a high level of concentration. The cobot relieves employees of tiring routine tasks and reduces physical strain at the same time. An optional single-axis manipulator with counter bearing enables the precise positioning of workpieces weighing up to 2,000 kg in the optimum welding position, eliminating the need for laborious reclamping. The manipulator and robot axes work simultaneously, resulting in greater efficiency and speed during welding. The result is precise spot welds of consistently high quality.

Other models and versions
In addition to the DSM-L, there are also the DSM-H (House) and DSM-T (Table) models, which are each tailored to smaller component dimensions and their specific requirements and applications.

mbk – Partner for innovative manufacturing solutions
With the new mbk Cobot DSM-L and other advanced technologies, mbk is setting new standards in automated production. The company stands for quality, innovation and customised solutions that sustainably increase productivity and efficiency in the manufacturing industry. mbk is not only aimed at small and medium-sized companies, but also offers user-friendly automation solutions to large companies.