company
Ferk Metal Construction
industry
Metal construction & mechanical processing
country
Austria
staff
50
Why does Ferk use cobots?
For Karl Ferk, who is the fourth generation to run the family business, the joy of work is central. The goal was to relieve employees of monotonous and physically demanding tasks without losing touch with traditional craftsmanship. By using collaborative robots as a flexible tool, Ferk Metallbau was able to modernize its production. Today, cobots take on repetitive tasks in series production, giving the team more freedom for complex projects and the development of customized customer solutions.
What challenge needed to be solved?
In metalworking, tasks such as welding, sanding, or powder coating require the utmost concentration—especially when dealing with series production involving hundreds of parts. These activities are time-consuming and tiring in the long run, which increases the risk of quality deviations. Ferk Metallbau was looking for a solution to break this monotony and reduce the physical strain on skilled workers, while at the same time continuing to incorporate the technical expertise of its employees into the process.
What does Universal Robots' solution look like?
In collaboration with a certified partner, several UR10e cobots have been integrated into production. The robots are used flexibly like any other tool and are equipped for new tasks by the employees themselves.
Individual training
The specialists use their expert knowledge to teach the cobots the specific movement sequences for each new task.
Precise welding & sanding
The UR10e performs both laser and arc welding and carries out precise deburring work with an angle grinder.
Automated coating
In the painting line, the cobots ensure uniform powder coating and assist in unmasking the components.
Focus on innovation
While the robots work through the series, employees focus on process optimization and more demanding manufacturing steps.
Why the UR10e was the ideal choice for Ferk Metallbau
High flexibility
The cobots can quickly switch between different workstations (e.g., from welding to sanding) as needed.
Ease of use
Thanks to intuitive programming, employees can operate and customize the systems independently without in-depth IT knowledge.
Space-saving integration
Since cobots can operate without bulky protective fences, they can be seamlessly integrated into the existing workshop environment.
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Precise automation for the highest quality standards
The e-series from Universal Robots enables Ferk Metallbau to guarantee consistently high precision, even for large series. The cobots perform movements such as powder coating with a consistency that would be almost impossible to maintain manually over hours. This ensures a flawless surface finish and massively reduces waste, enabling the long-established company to meet its high quality standards at all times.
“We have been around for four generations. Much has changed, but one thing has remained the same: we do our work conscientiously. And we don't stand still. New technologies such as cobots are part of that. They help us to improve.”
Karl Ferk
Managing Director of Ferk Metallbau
