Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Watch the market for robotic systems, robotic components and robotic equipment trends

It is the same with purchasing robots as it is with purchasing commercial real estate: you learn by watching others who go before you. Why not let others tell you how they've fared with robots, as well? Make sure any third party site you visit for information is non-profit, and evaluates the suppliers for quality and industry standards.

I recommend: Track current robotic systems trends by subscribing to the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society RSS feed. Get a listing for suppliers of robotic equipment through Underwriters Laboratories.

Prepare for the upkeep of welding automation robots to improve accuracy and productivity

Welding robots may require frequent recalibration or reprogramming, so be prepared for the expense and downtime. Contact an engineering consulting company that specializes in welding robots for the pre-purchase guidance you'll need.

I recommend: Kawasaki Robotics features a standard 6-axis robotic arm with a seventh axis that is optional. Look into Industrial 101 automation robots to take over other monotonous tasks.

Find suppliers of industrial robots that will help keep service costs down from the start

The cost of industrial robots is not limited to purchase price. Some robots cost roughly $60,000. Putting the robot into your production line rings up another $200,000. The cost of reprogramming the robot for new tasks is more than it would cost the average industrialist to purchase a new robot.

I recommend: Carefully evaluate your needs for robots. Inquire about programming and reprogramming costs. One option for saving money is to purchase robotic tool changers from ATI. And, remember to do business with robot components suppliers like ABB that have tech support ready all hours of the day, any day of the week, all year round.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Manufacturers and consultants can offer referrals for small business owners looking for cost-effective robotics solutions. Contact engineering consultants who specialize in automated robotics for all the latest industry news. Ask businesses that host promotional robots for their supplier recommendations, and ensure that you buy robots for industry from companies that offer all the maintenance, recalibration and reprogramming services you'll need.