Kranendonk Production Systems B.V., specialist in one-piece production automation, has received a major order for a flange welding system. This is a pioneering robotic production solution for welding bespoke pipe constructions for the offshore, shipbuilding and petrochemical industries. The system has been developed to incorporate four ABB simultaneously operating robots and the latest vision technology to position, tack and weld a wide range of flanges and welding sockets. Optionally the system can be equipped with cutting and drilling functionalities. By integrating offline programming software with the current CAD/CAM system drastic cost savings will be realized at the work preparation department.
“We will take delivery of the first robotic flange welding system in the Benelux countries and Germany,” says Paul Dits, Director of IHC Piping B.V.. “It will help to improve the weld quality, the flexibility of production, and the cycle and delivery times for the pipe sections. These benefits will be passed on directly to our expanding customer base and provide us with a distinct competitive advantage.” Twenty-five years ago, IHC Piping B.V. was inspired by the principles of Lean Manufacturing (LM) and Just-in-time (JIT) processes. These tried-and-tested Japanese production philosophies are utilized by IHC Piping in its 2,250 m² workshop to help boost efficiency and reduce wastage.