WELDERS AND THE CHALLENGES OF THE FUTURE.

Industrial development generates great challenges every day, especially in terms of competitiveness. The optimization of production systems demands increasingly higher competencies in welding operations, which is why knowledge and, above all, experience are essential. Today, being a skilled welder is no longer enough — one must also have knowledge of materials, processes, basic electrical concepts, welding codes, occupational safety and health, welding application variables, welding equipment, and an understanding of new technological advances, such as the Industry 4.0 concept, which is revolutionizing production processes — and welding technology is no exception. There are new functions and capabilities in demand for the optimal integration of welding systems in factories seeking to interconnect processes through computers. The “fourth industrial revolution” has already been a reality for many years; digital power sources with features that help optimize processes provide a significant competitive advantage for companies. This is why welders must have related knowledge, as machines will provide even greater assistance in the future than they do today.

As a result, welding equipment power source manufacturers are shifting their focus; whereas power conversion has been the key to success for decades, the digitalization of the welding process now takes center stage. In the future, communication, real-time data monitoring, data storage, cybersecurity, and intelligent human-machine interfaces will be the driving forces behind research and development. For example, software tools that optimize welding parameters or manage consumable wear parts will play an increasingly dominant role. For this reason, I would like to extend an invitation today to pursue training and education in welding and cutting-related topics, so that all welders are aware of the challenges that must be faced in the future.

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