In 2023, ASC Inc., a supplier in the power delivery sector across North America, partnered with Pemamek to master the shift to robotic welding. During this process, the company also transitioned from using 2D models to 3D models.
Specializing in power substations and transmission, ASC’s products serve as pillars of infrastructure across the United States. With a commitment to high quality, the company has continually sought ways to enhance its operations and deliver trusted solutions to its clients.
“Our customers have come to expect the best deliverables when they place their trust in us through an order. ASC has been in business since 1970 and has a strong understanding of the highly competitive U.S. market,” says Mr. Randy Nance, Production Manager at ASC Inc.
By investing in a PEMA robotic welding station, ASC aimed to further streamline its processes, boost efficiency, and elevate the quality of its output. The decision to incorporate robotics into their workflow was driven by a desire to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and meet the evolving needs of their clientele. The growing lack of skilled welders also impacted the decision-making process.
From the first steps to full run Pemamek’s U.S. team and the application experts worked in close partnership with ASC from the initial concept design and welding tests to the final implementation of the new station. One element in the process was training the welders to become robot operators.
The welding station is equipped with PEMA WeldControl 300 software, known for combining state-of the-art features with an intuitive and easy-to use user interface. After many months of engineering and collaboration with ASC Pemamek delivered a customized proven solution for ASC’s use case.
“With the improved efficiency, we could optimize our resources and increase the production volume with our current fitters and welders.”
Randy Nance, Production Manager at ASC Inc.
Cutting man-hours in half
One of the most striking advantages of robotic welding is its unparalleled efficiency. ASC’s experience echoes this sentiment, with the PEMA station capable of outpacing traditional manual labor by a remarkable margin. For ASC, this meant a 50% reduction in manhours per workpiece.
“From our real-life experience with the PEMA robot welding station, I can say that it cuts man-hours in half. With the improved efficiency, we could optimize our resources and increase the production volume with our current fitters and welders”, explains Mr. Nance.
Improved accuracy with 3D models
In addition to robotic welding, ASC has embraced the transition from 2D to 3D modeling, further enhancing its capabilities. The shift to 3D modeling has empowered ASC’s operators with exceptional precision and control, allowing for more accurate programming and execution. This technological leap has not only streamlined operations but also elevated the quality of ASC’s output to new heights.
“I like working with 3D models. It’s easy to view the dimensions and freely rotate the workpiece. The PEMA WeldControl software is easy to use, and it works really well,” says Robot Operator Francisco Chavero.
“I believe this solution opens doors for us to attract new customers.”
Randy Nance, Production Manager at ASC Inc.
Maximizing the future competitiveness
While initially intended for welding smaller poles, the PEMA robot welding station has proven to be remarkably versatile. From tubes to beams and everything in between, the robot’s capabilities extend beyond ASC’s initial expectations. This versatility has empowered ASC to tackle a diverse array of projects and further strengthen its reputation as a versatile and adaptable player in the industry.
“ASC strives to be the most modern company. I believe this solution opens doors for us to attract new customers,” says Mr. Nance.
