Viñolas Metall, a family-owned business specializing in metal components, sheet metal processing, and boiler making, is embracing the future with advanced welding technologies to meet Industry 5.0 demands. Founded in 1968 by Josep Viñolas in Cornellà del Terri, Spain, the company has evolved under the leadership of his son, David Viñolas, who has driven innovation and expansion, including a new 4,000 m² production site in Banyoles.
To tackle the challenges of creating high-quality, reproducible welds in series production, especially for components used in highly corrosive environments, Viñolas Metall has turned to Fronius, a trusted partner known for its cutting-edge welding solutions. The company recently implemented a robotic welding cell equipped with a TPS 400i CMT welding machine. This setup includes a hollow arm welding robot and an H reverser with two vertical turntables, enabling efficient welding of stainless steel beams for swimming pool roofs.
The Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) process, integral to this system, ensures minimal heat input, reducing the heat-affected zone and minimizing deformation of the base material. This process not only enhances weld quality but also increases welding speed, reduces spatter, and lowers rework costs, making it an ideal solution for Viñolas Metall’s high-stakes projects.
In addition to the robotic welding cell, Viñolas Metall has adopted the iWave Pro series, Fronius’ latest generation of multiprocess welding machines. These machines are designed for flexibility, allowing rapid switching between TIG and MIG/MAG processes without compromising weld quality. The iWave Pro’s compatibility with Fronius’ WeldCube software further enhances production efficiency, offering advanced data management and documentation capabilities.
David Viñolas emphasizes the importance of reliable technology and professional support in their welding operations. “Fronius products are far more powerful and reliable than the devices we’ve used before. Since owning Fronius equipment, we have never had to stop production due to failures,” he says. The ease of use and robust design of Fronius machines, along with comprehensive training and support, have been instrumental in maintaining high production standards at Viñolas Metall.
Looking ahead, Viñolas Metall plans to fully transition to Fronius equipment by 2025, with all 15 welding cells being upgraded to the iWave Pro. This move aligns with the company’s goal of maximizing productivity and staying at the forefront of Industry 5.0.
Viñolas Metall’s partnership with Fronius demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence. By leveraging the latest welding technologies, Viñolas Metall is not only meeting today’s demands but is also gearing up for the future of manufacturing.