Spool Welding Robot (SWR™)

The base model of the SWR can weld pipes from 2” to 60” with appropriate pipe positioners.

The SWR can use GMAW, MCAW, or FCAW.  Root welds are performed using Lincoln Electric’s STT (a modified short circuit GMAW process).  Fill and cap welds can be made using pulse spray with GMAW, or standard CV modes for FCAW and MCAW.

The SWR-TIPTIG is a single torch system that utilizes TIPTIG’s hot wire GTAW process.

Talk to our sales team if you’d like to know more about applying the SWR-TIPTIG to your specific process.

The SWR is able to weld any material.  Novarc has developed welding recipes backed by ASME-qualified PQRs & WPSs for carbon and stainless steels (ASME P1 & P8).

Talk to our sales team if you’d like to learn about developing recipes for other materials.

Yes, the SWR has the ability to switch between weld modes (STT & Pulse) without shutting off the arc.

The standard SWR process is GMAW with ER70S-6. This wire has moderate levels of silica (not heavy slag) that can be burnt by the arc as the arc goes over it. Operators can see this throughout the weld process using the welding vision system. When welding heavy wall pipe, Novarc does recommend cleaning after the 3rd layer of weld.

Our standard power source is the Lincoln PowerWave® R450, All units are sold with a power source as a turn-key package.

To ensure our customers have the best experience, we do not integrate with customer’s existing power sources.

The pipe/components are fit-up to a typical 3/32 in. (2.4 mm) root opening (gap) with a tolerance of ± 1/32″.

We take pride in delivering cutting-edge robotic welding solutions that meet the highest industry standards. Our system incorporates Novarc positioners—a crucial component for achieving exceptional weld quality. Here’s why:

1. Precision and Consistency: Our proprietary positioners are purpose-built to accurately rotate pipes during each welding pass and to perform autonomous functions such as Tack Fusion. By controlling this critical movement, we ensure precise alignment and consistent welds.

2. Reliability: Novarc positioners are rigorously tested and optimized for seamless integration with our welding automation system. This reliability minimizes downtime and maximizes productivity.
   Integrating third-party positioners will vary in quality and compatibility with the SWR adding too many unknowns for commissioning and the production staff.

3. Quality Assurance: Weld quality is paramount. By exclusively using our positioners, we maintain strict control over the entire welding process. This consistency translates to welds that consistently meet or exceed industry standards.

4. Customer Confidence: When you choose Novarc, you’re investing in a system designed for reliability, precision, and superior weld quality. Our commitment to excellence ensures your projects are completed efficiently and with unmatched results.

SWR operators are trained to scan the pipe visually before the start of the weld to assess the hi-lo and root gap, as well as inspect the tacks. If the Hi-Lo is higher than the amount specified by the SWR bevel requirements document, the pipe has to be refitted. If the Hi-Lo is within the allowed tolerances, the operator can enable the torch weave dwell functions. During the root pass, the operator can address the Hi-Lo using the asymmetric dwell and root save to weld the root. During the fill and cap passes, the operator uses the dwell function to manage the Hi-Lo. In this scenario, the laser-assisted seam tracking and height control have to be disabled for all passes to better allow the operator to control the torch position.