Client
Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw
Location
Emmeloord
Specialisation
Machining, structural engineering and mechanical engineering
Employees
1-10
In the municipality of Emmeloord, surrounded by agricultural landscapes, lies a significant player in the metalworking industry: Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw. Driven by a passion for mechanization and custom solutions, the company has experienced steady growth.
Founded by the grandfather of Wim Dekker Jr., the company has evolved into a customer-focused partner and specialist in machining, construction and machine building. With a team of ten employees, Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw engages in a wide range of activities, from machining to complex construction projects. The company offers extensive capabilities to deliver customized solutions in steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, as well as modifying or improving existing products. The strength of the company lies in the synergy between construction and machining, from preparation and welding to finishing and delivering high-quality end products.
More freedom in production
A recent development at Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw is the integration of a collaborative robot (cobot) into their production process. "In the summer of 2023, the cobot was installed," shares Wim. "The decision to invest in a cobot stemmed from our need for flexibility and efficiency. Where our previous robot had limitations, the cobot offers us much more freedom in handling various products and welding tasks."
The introduction to WeCobot occurred during an open day organized by Fronius welding partner GT Lastechniek. This first encounter led to a closer collaboration when a workshop was organized on-site at Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw. During this workshop, the capabilities of the cobot were demonstrated, and the welders had the opportunity to test the cobot on their own products. They found the cobot's programming to be user-friendly and effective. Due to an ongoing project at Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw, the cobot needed to be implemented quickly so they could start using it immediately. Within six weeks of the workshop, the cobot was operational. One of the features they frequently use is Multilayer.
The decision to invest in a cobot stemmed from our need for flexibility and efficiency."
"Companies in our area are already working with WeCobot and they do so for a reason."
Based on these positive experiences from local businesses, it was clear to Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw that WeCobot possessed the necessary knowledge and experience for a successful implementation of this technology. Additionally, proximity played a crucial role in their choice of WeCobot. Located in Zwolle, relatively close to Emmeloord where Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw is based, WeCobot offered advantages in terms of service and support. Wim explained, "If anything comes up, we can quickly get in touch and visit each other for personal support. This proximity, combined with the collaboration with GT Lastechniek, aligned well with our needs."
From implementation to future innovation
Wim emphasizes the value of local expertise and support. "WeCobot assisted us at every step of the process, from consultation to implementation. Their personalized approach and focus on welding solutions made the difference for us. We are supported by colleagues who understand our situation and actively think along with us."
While Dekker Constructie & Machinebouw is benefiting from their first cobot, they are already looking ahead to further optimizing their production process. "We plan to mount the cobot upside down in the future," reveals Wim Dekker Jr. This adjustment will further increase the cobot's flexibility, expanding its range and freedom of movement.
The personalized approach and focus on welding solutions made the difference for us."
