In Short
Choose a collaborative welding robot arm by matching payload, reach, repeatability, and supported processes to your parts. For small parts under 7 kg and compact fixtures, a 1077 mm arm works. For medium frames and longer seams, choose a 1460–1464 mm arm. For large workpieces and heavy torches, use a 2027 mm arm with 15–20 kg payload.
1. Start with the Workpiece, Not the Robot
The right arm depends on your part size, weight, and weld location. Before comparing models, document:
- Part weight and the heaviest torch or sensor you will mount
- Longest weld seam and required arm reach
- Required repeatability for your weld quality standard
- Available floor space and mounting position
- Welding process: GMAW (MIG/MAG), GTAW (TIG), spot, or laser
CBOXTEC designs and assembles CTC-HJ arms in a 4,000 m² factory in Foshan, Guangdong, China. Since 2021, the company has shipped systems to over 20 countries.
2. Match Payload to Torch and Fixture Weight
Payload includes the welding torch, cable package, sensor, and any extra tooling. Undersizing the payload reduces accuracy and accelerates joint wear.
| Application | Typical Torch + Tooling | Recommended CBOXTEC Model |
|---|---|---|
| Small brackets, thin sheet | 2–4 kg | CTC007-HJ1077 (7 kg payload) |
| Medium frames, exhaust parts | 4–7 kg | CTC006-HJ1460 or CTC015-HJ1464 |
| Heavy torch, laser head, sensor | 7–12 kg | CTC015-HJ1464 or CTC020-HJ2027 |
| Large fixtures, multi-process | 12–18 kg | CTC020-HJ2027 (20 kg payload) |
3. Match Reach to Seam Length and Cell Layout
Reach determines how much of the part the arm can access without repositioning the base. A longer reach reduces fixture complexity but requires more floor space.
- 1077 mm: benchtop cells, small brackets, short seams
- 1460–1464 mm: medium frames, automotive exhaust, furniture
- 2027 mm: large panels, gates, railings, agricultural equipment
4. Check Repeatability and Process Support
Repeatability directly affects weld consistency. CTC-HJ arms deliver ±0.02 mm to ±0.03 mm repeatability across the collaborative series. CTR008-HJ1450 is rated at ±0.08 mm at production speeds for continuous industrial lines.
All CTC-HJ models support GMAW and GTAW. Spot welding and laser welding require the correct torch interface and cable routing. The CTC015-HJ1464L and CTC020-HJ2027L variants include laser-optimized cable routing.
5. Decide: Arm Only, Arm + Cart, or Industrial Robot
| Setup | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone arm | Existing power source and fixture | Lowest entry cost |
| Welding cart | Quick relocation, turnkey startup | Arm + power source + wire feeder + gas cylinder, pre-wired |
| CTR008-HJ1450 | High-volume, 24/7 production | Floor-mounted industrial robot, 4550 W drive power |
FAQ
What is the smallest CBOXTEC collaborative welding arm?
The CTC007-HJ1077 has a 7 kg payload and 1077 mm reach. It fits small workshops and compact fixtures where floor space is limited.
Can one arm handle both MIG and TIG welding?
Yes. CTC-HJ arms support both GMAW (MIG/MAG) and GTAW (TIG) when fitted with the correct torch and process parameters. Laser and spot welding require specific configurations.
How long does it take to teach a new welding path?
Hand-guided teaching lets operators record most simple paths in 15–30 minutes. Complex multi-pass welds take longer depending on geometry and quality requirements.
Next Steps
Request a project review from CBOXTEC to match a CTC-HJ arm to your parts and production volume: Request a quote.