KUKA Receives Order for State-of-the-Art Welding Technologies for E-Mobility

Strategic Insights -

KUKA AG, a leading provider of automation solutions, has received a significant order for state-of-the-art welding technologies for the e-mobility sector. Following a major order for 23 friction welding cells in 2023, KUKA has now secured a follow-up order for 12 additional cells for a production expansion. The delivered cells will be installed and commissioned in stages by August 2025. The order is part of KUKA's efforts to support the transition to a more sustainable mobility ecosystem.

Key Takeaways:

  • KUKA has received a follow-up order for 12 additional friction welding cells for a production expansion, bringing the total order to 23 cells for the e-mobility sector.
  • The delivered cells will be installed and commissioned in stages by August 2025.
  • The friction welding cells will be integrated into production lines for electric vehicles, where they will be used in several manufacturing steps.
  • KUKA is responsible for the entire friction stir welding process, including assembly, commissioning, training, and final acceptance at the customer's site.
  • The order will support KUKA's efforts to develop flexible production lines, allowing vehicles with combustion engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles to be built on the same production lines.
  • The new production lines will feature KUKA's KR FORTEC robots and clamping devices tailored to the welding process.
  • The order will also drive the adoption of KUKA's FSW solution portfolio, which includes the FSW application module, cell4_FSW production cells, and turnkey solutions.

Statistics:

  • 23 friction welding cells ordered in 2023 for the e-mobility sector.
  • 12 additional cells ordered in 2024 for a production expansion.
  • Cells to be installed and commissioned by August 2025.
  • The new production lines will produce vehicles with combustion engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles on the same production lines.
  • KUKA's KR FORTEC robots will be used in the friction welding process, with a reach of up to 3,400 mm.
  • The new FSW robots will be integrated into KUKA's FSW solution portfolio by April 2025.

Sources:

  • KUKA AG. (July 9). "KUKA supports the transition to a more sustainable mobility with state-of-the-art technology."
  • Contify. (Copyright 2017). Category: Automobiles, Consumer Electronics, Aluminum, Procurement and Sales.