For some companies a robotic welding system could be a good choice for their operation.  Before a company makes a decision to purchase they should first determine the payback on the purchase. 

• A robot cannot work with these kinds of tolerances. A robot can maintain a good weld only if the parts are held to a tolerance of ± half the weld wire diameter.
• Look at your plant as a whole to detect all the areas that can cause a problem for the robot.
• Cost can be a major issue for smaller companies looking into the purchase of a robotic cell. A lower-priced cell with a small robot with limited reach and no integration can be useful for smaller items.
• If in your system the operator waits while the robot welds, and the robot waits while the operator loads and unloads, add the weld time to the time it takes for the operator to load and unload.
• A robot can be useful tool in today’s market. After you’ve planned, justified the cost, and decided to purchase a robotic welding system, it’s time to do research.
• Many factors are involved in choosing the right integrator. First, don't let money be the only issue. For your first system, you may want one completely integrated, delivered, and set up on your floor. A well-established and recommended robotic integrator can provide support and backing. A good integrator will allow you to do this and will set up plant visits for you.
• When choosing an integrator, keep in mind that most sell only specific robots–sometimes only one or two brands. It's just as important for you to choose the right robot as it is the integrator. Some robots are operator-friendly but may be lacking in the software department. Other robots are too complicated but are versatile in their abilities with the software.
• Some robots are sold for welding but are better suited for material handling. These robots struggle to get into tight areas, so look for a small-end wrist where the torch attaches if access is a concern.
• After you have chosen a robot and an integrator, it is time to decide on the cell that best suits your application.
• A robotic cell can have a complicated master program to run the robot, postioner, and other peripherals.
• The integrator may say a problem is caused by the robot or welding machine, while the manufacturer of the robot or welding machine insists it’s caused by the integrator.

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