How Big Data helps with welding

Experts agree: Big data has the potential to fundamentally change society, politics, and the economy in a similar way to how electricity or the internet have in the past. Data is considered to be the resource of the future, and not without reason: You just need to look to internet giants like Google, Facebook, and YouTube to see how valuable this resource is. Collecting and processing data opens up completely new business models in welding technology. However, for this to be the case it is crucial to have the right tools and the necessary transparency in dealing with new digital technologies.

Using data to optimize production processes

Data collection and analysis is becoming ever more important in industrial manufacturing processes, and welding technology is no exception. A networked and automated production environment provides a deep insight into day-to-day work and the challenges facing the user. Modern welding systems collect information about current, voltage, wire feed, welding speed, and much more. This helps to identify and prevent errors at an early stage and to optimize processes. Just as online retailers use data to analyze the behavior of their clients and optimize their business strategies accordingly, manufacturing companies can use data analysis to improve the performance of their machines, systems, and entire production lines, making them more efficient.

Quality assurance with Big Data

There are many steel and pipeline construction companies and manufacturers of construction machinery and commercial vehicles who have to guarantee high quality standards when it comes to production. Welded joints have to comply with standards and regulations. Guaranteeing this on a permanent basis is therefore of vital importance. Collecting and processing welding data helps to improve the transparency and traceability of each individual work step. Which welding system processed which component? Which welding process was used for that? How high was the welding speed? The possibility of data collection and analysis represents a huge advantage for companies who are required to document their processes.

Internet giants are no longer the only ones that consider user data a vital resource – it’s becoming just as strategically important to medium-sized companies like welding technology manufacturers. Those who have found their niche online and understand the user’s perspective have a clear competitive advantage and strengthen their connection to their customers in the long term. The users themselves also benefit, thanks to improved, more efficient welding processes that can save them time and money long-term.

Data documentation systems help to optimize manufacturing and welding processes.

The digital transformation is everywhere and subjects like big data and industry 4.0 are what everyone’s talking about. This is why we at Fronius Perfect Welding will be dedicating ourselves to the subject of digitalization in welding technology over the coming months. What can you expect to see? A white paper, interviews with experts, details about new digital products and much more – watch this space!