A 500-kilogram friction stir welding robot developed by Nantong Zhenkang Machinery Company [Photo/WeChat account: haimendianshitai]

A 500-kilogram friction stir welding robot developed by Nantong Zhenkang Machinery Co has recently been completed and put into trial operations, local media reported.

Different from traditional welding techniques, friction stir welding does not require other filler materials, which means it will retain the characteristics of the original materials and ensure the high strength of the seams. It has been widely used in cutting-edge sci-tech projects, especially in aeronautics and astronautics.

"The robot is the first of its kind in China," said Tong Tong, deputy manager of the company. "It will help improve the capacity and development level of the country’s intelligent manufacturing industry."

Despite its rich experience in producing 6-kg welding robots, the company encountered great difficulties in the research and development of this giant robot.

For example, the process of friction stir welding causes severe vibrations, which normal robotic structure cannot stand.

To solve the problem, the company's chairman, Tang Zikang, thought of using double RV (rotate vector) reducers to strengthen the robot's joints. The design has been granted an invention patent.

The project has been included in the national "intelligent robot" program, which is sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology.

"We will continue to improve its performance and precision. It is expected to be put into use in 2022," said Tong.