Union Pacific Advances Rail Safety with Robotic Welding Technology

“We demo new technologies like this every day to improve our infrastructure,” said Scott Lauby, senior manager-Track Welding. “The benefits are making a noticeable impact on our operations.”

Crews position the robotic arm, maintain a safe distance and activate the system, which safely executes uniform welds with 30% less heat – at twice the speed.

The result? Track repairs are stronger, more precise and longer lasting.

“Manganese steel is heat sensitive,” Lauby said. “The trucks are equipped with Cold Metal Transfer technology that allows us to weld at much lower temperatures, resulting in stronger infrastructure and less potential heat exposure for our crews.”

Engineering is currently using the trucks to weld frogs, a track mechanism that guides rail cars through switches and crossings.

Union Pacific invests about $10 million a day  in infrastructure, technology and network expansion across its 23-state network.