Babcock Secures Three Advanced PEMA Lines to Boost Shipbuilding Automation

Babcock International Group, an aerospace and defense company, has placed an order for a set of PEMA welding and production lines for shipbuilding at its Rosyth site in Scotland. In total, the order includes three lines; PEMA Thin plate panel line, PEMA Micro panel line, and PEMA T-beam fabrication line.

Each PEMA production line is based on modern shipbuilding technology that enables Babcock to raise its level of automation. PEMA Thin plate panel line is equipped with new technologies such as plate edge milling and robotic welding, which enable high-quality production of various panel types. PEMA T-beam fabrication line is designed to make straight T-beams without any additional straightening processes.

PEMA Micro panel line consists of a customized solution that first assembles the profiles before they are welded with a compact Vision robotics solution. The main benefit of the line is that it automatizes micro panel production, but also other small-medium-sized constructions, according to Pemamek. The control of the robotic system is based on PEMA WeldControl 200 software which enables weld path creation and robot programming.

The advanced shipbuilding automation lines are customized according to Babcock’s production needs to weld deck panels and bulkheads. For Babcock, the lines bring increased capability in welding and handling, the improved manufacturing quality of ship structures, and streamlined production processes while requiring less manual work. The lines will initially be used for the Type 31 general purpose frigate program being built and assembled at its Rosyth facility.

Pemamek’s turn-key delivery also includes installation and commissioning, testing, training, production support, and recommended spare parts. A preventive maintenance agreement package is also included in the scope of supply.