Hidrive case study

Transforming Manufacturing with Robot Welding.

Background

Hidrive, a leader in designing and manufacturing vehicle storage solutions, specialises in towbar assemblies, chassis brackets, and light truck service body chassis. As demand grew, manual welding became increasingly time and labor-intensive. To enhance efficiency and ensure consistent weld quality, Hidrive partnered with Autoa Robot Welding to integrate an automated welding system into their production process.

Project Overview

Customer: Hidrive
Product: Service Bodies for Utes, Trailers & Trucks
Country: Goulburn, Australia
Installed: 2024
Industry: Motor Vehicle Manufacturing
Solution: S-6000 Robot Welding Cell
Featured Equipment: Yaskawa AR3120 Robot, YRC1000 Controller, OTC Daihen P502L Power Source + 500A Water Cooled Torch and Water Cooler, Yaskawa HM-1000D Positioner Headstock, Yaskawa TM-1000D Positioner Tailstock, Yaskawa TSL Robot Slider, Tip Cleaning Station, Integrated Safety Componentry.

The Solution

Autoa collaborated with Hidrive to introduce an S-6000 robotic welding cell, tailored to meet the unique requirements of their manufacturing process. Installed in April 2024, the system was operational within a week, providing a seamless transition to automated welding.

The S-6000 robotic welding cell is equipped with AutoaWeld, an intuitive offline programming software that enables rapid setup for new product lines, minimizing downtime and increasing flexibility. Custom-designed fixtures ensure precise part alignment, optimising production flow, and weld accuracy, while allowing for flexibility in accommodating product variations. To maximize system performance, Hidrive’s team received comprehensive operator training and ongoing support, ensuring they could fully leverage the robotic welding system.

The Results

Integrating Autoa’s robotic welding cell significantly enhanced Hidrive’s production process, increasing efficiency and throughput. Tasks that previously required hours of manual labor were completed faster, allowing Hidrive to meet demand and scale operations with ease. Welding time was reduced on product lines by up to 80%, increasing daily output, while seamless product line transitions minimized setup times and improved delivery schedules.

Automation also led to cost savings by reducing labor requirements and optimizing material use. Skilled workers could focus on other production areas, while the welding system minimized spatter and errors, lowering material waste and expenses. The S-6000’s accuracy delivered consistently high-quality welds, improving production flow and reinforcing Hidrive’s commitment to well-built, durable products.

The IMPACT ON HIDRIVE’S BUSINESS

The adoption of robotic welding not only improved Hidrive’s production efficiency but also positioned the company for long-term growth. Increased productivity and lower operational costs strengthened their competitive edge, while the ability to maintain high manufacturing standards reinforced customer confidence and brand loyalty.

Hidrive’s partnership with Autoa Robot Welding showcases the value of automation in modern manufacturing. By integrating advanced robotic technology, Hidrive has improved efficiency, optimized production, and maintained high product quality, strengthening their capabilities as an Australian manufacturer.

Let’s talk about how our robotic welding solutions can help your business. As a 100% family-owned company, we’re focused on making robotic welding simple and supporting you every step of the way.