SEASPAN'S VICTORIA SHIPYARDS INSTALLS NOVARC TECHNOLOGIES' SPOOL WELDING ROBOT
March 28 2024 - 10:30AM
Novarc Technologies Inc., a Canadian-based robotics company,
specializing in the design and manufacturing of cobots and computer
vision AI for automated welding applications, announced today the
deployment of its Spool Welding Robot (SWR™) at Seaspan's Victoria
Shipyards. This collaboration between Seaspan, one of Canada’s
leading shipbuilders, and Novarc aims to transform pipe welding
processes with automation technology; enhancing productivity,
elevating welder safety, and ensuring consistent high-quality
welds.
“We are very grateful for our growing
partnership with Seaspan,” said Soroush Karimzadeh, CEO of Novarc.
“Seaspan’s successful adoption of our pipe welding automation
technology, first with their installation of the SWR at their
Vancouver Drydock and most recently at Victoria Shipyards, is a
testament to their innovation in shipbuilding, repair and overhaul
services and their leadership in the marine transportation
industry.”
This collaboration will amplify pipe
welding and automation in the maritime industry. Integrating
Novarc's SWR™ - the world’s first of its kind in pipe welding
applications - into Seaspan's operations will achieve efficiency,
productivity, and welder safety while maintaining weld quality. The
SWR™ streamlines welding tasks, significantly reducing manual
labour time. Its advanced automation capabilities allow faster,
more efficient welds, ultimately accelerating project
timelines.
The SWR™ employs precise motion
control and AI-based algorithms to consistently produce
near-flawless welds. Equipped with cutting-edge vision systems, the
SWR™ scans and analyzes weld joints in real-time, ensuring precise
alignment and optimal weld quality.
“Innovation and technology are
critical components of Seaspan’s vision of developing and growing a
world-leading ship repair and overhaul capability on the West Coast
of Canada,” said Tony Winter, VP & GM, Victoria Shipyards. “We
are excited to partner with Novarc Technologies with the latest
installation of their pipe welding automation technology at our
Victoria Shipyards which essentially revolutionizes existing pipe
welding technology.”
“Seaspan has been a great strategic
partner for us, beginning with their initial investment in Novarc
in 2017, and their continued support of Novarc in new product
development, and adoption of our automation technology, which will
ultimately benefit Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy,” said
Karimzadeh.
The “human” benefits of implementing
automation are also key to Seaspan’s technology adoption.
Specifically, traditional welding methods expose welders to
hazardous conditions, including intense heat, fumes, and physical
strain. The SWR™ eliminates direct exposure to these risks,
promoting a safer work environment for Seaspan's welding team. The
SWR™ also collaborates seamlessly with human welders, enhancing
their capabilities rather than replacing them. It augments their
skills, allowing them to focus on critical decision-making while
the robot handles repetitive tasks. Novarc's user-friendly
interface allows welders to program the SWR™ quickly and whether
it's a new project or a recurring task, the robot adapts
effortlessly to different pipe sizes and configurations.
Novarc Technologies Inc. is a leading
provider of welding automation solutions, specializing in cobots
and AI-based machine vision solutions. Seaspan's Victoria Shipyards
is the leading ship repair and modernization facility on Canada’s
west coast.
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About Novarc Technologies
Inc.:
Novarc Technologies is a full-stack
robotics company specializing in the design and manufacturing of
cobots and AI-based machine vision
solutions for autonomous welding. Novarc’s Spool
Welding Robot (SWR) is the world’s first of its kind in pipe
welding applications. As a proven pioneer in the field, Novarc’s
team is dedicated to solving challenging welding automation
problems that improve customers’ bottom line.
For more information,
visit www.novarctech.com
About Seaspan
Shipyards
Seaspan, a division of Seaspan ULC, is a leader in
Canada’s ship design, engineering, building and ship repair
industry. With modern facilities and a dedicated workforce of
approximately 3,900 in North Vancouver and Victoria, the company
has proven itself to be a trusted and strategic partner on a range
of complex projects for both government and the private sector.
For more information,
visit https://www.seaspan.com/seaspan-shipyards/
- Novarc's SWR™ welding automation technology has been installed
at Seaspan's Victoria Shipyards
Debra Hadden
Novarc Technologies Inc.
604-240-3196
debra@novarctech.com