Hand gun vs. welding head

In principle, an automatic hand gun is used wherever it is difficult to move the component or workpiece due to its shape, size or weight. The disadvantages are less positioning accuracy and the direct influence of the welder on the result.

Automatic welding heads are used on one hand for small to large workpieces that can be fixed on X-Y coordinate tables. The infeed movement of the head to the welding position can take place either via a pneumatic or a motor-driven Z-axis. Automatic welding heads can also be used in conjunction with a welding robot in "three-dimensional" positions on the component.

Modular systems consisting of an X-Y coordinate table (CNC system), power unit, welding head, feed unit (vibrator with sorter and separator) and feed hose are standard solutions. Different stud geometries must be taken into account, because different stud diameters already make it necessary to adapt the equipment (automatic chuck, feed tube, feed hose, vibrator) accordingly.

The user must therefore carefully check and evaluate his tasks and requirements based on the technical possibilities - e.g. the specifications in the technical data sheets (working range, cycle rate, travel speed, position accuracy, technical modularity).

Here it makes sense to involve the future supplier of the equipment technology already in the product development and to carry out referencing test welds with the planned technology and configuration with components which will be used in series production. In this way, the product parameters required later can be adapted and ensured.

The best possible basis for ensuring the process and the quality of the welded product is therefore provided a system solution "process responsibility = equipment and welding technology + welding element" can be offered by the manufacturer / supplier of the automatic welding system. In case of a problem, there is only one contact for the quality-influencing criteria technology / equipment and welding element.

An automation solution as an investment in the future should therefore not only consider the pure price of the system or components, but also the corresponding selection of the included welding technology and equipment, in particular the competence and experience of the producer of the automatic welding system (customized applications, project work) as well as the technical support (e.g. consulting, training, service, rental or leasing of welding equipment, costs for spare and wear parts).