Welding cobot rental (RaaS) | Welder without investment
Introduction: The two main problems of every workshop
Every engineering company today faces two problems. First: A chronic shortage of welders. It is almost impossible to find a quality, reliable welder. Second: The high cost of automation. A robotic welding cell that would solve the problem could easily cost 1.5 million crowns or more. That is a huge initial investment (CAPEX) that a small or medium-sized company cannot or does not want to afford.
But what if there was a third way? What if you could have a fully functional welding robot cell in production tomorrow without paying a single penny upfront? That's exactly what the "Robot as a Service" (RaaS) model is, or renting a welding cobot.
Main part: Buying vs. Renting
The problem called "CAPEX trap"
When purchasing, you assume all risks:
- ➡️ High investment: You have to release a huge amount of cash at once.
- ➡️ Financing: Or go into debt with a leasing company for years.
- ➡️ Uncertain return: What if you don't have as much work for the robot in a year?
- ➡️ Worry about service: You are responsible for maintenance, repairs, and finding programmers.
Solution: Robot as a Service (RaaS)
The RaaS model, or robot rental, is changing the rules of the game. It's like Netflix or Spotify for industry. You're not buying a robot, you're buying the outcome - the perfect match.
How does it work in practice?
- ✅ A service provider (such as svet-robotu.cz or its partners) will bring and install a complete welding cell to your company - typically a collaborative robot, welding power source, table and safety features.
- ✅ Technicians will bring everything to life and teach you (or your welder) how to easily program the robot.
- ✅ You don't pay any purchase price. You only pay a fixed monthly fee (operating expenses - OPEX).
Main benefits of renting
-
1️⃣ Zero initial investment (CAPEX turns into OPEX)
The biggest advantage. You don't have to dip into savings or deal with complicated loans. The monthly fee for the robot is an operating expense, just like paying for electricity or internet. -
2️⃣ Absolute flexibility
Do you have a big job that only lasts 6 months? No problem. You rent the robot only for the time you really need it. When the job is over, you simply return it. -
3️⃣ Carefree operation (Service included)
Did the robot break down? It's not your concern. The monthly fee includes all service, phone support, and spare parts. The provider has an incentive to keep the robot running 24/7 because it pays for it. -
4️⃣ Try automation risk-free
Not sure if robotics is for you? Renting is the ideal way to "touch" the technology in real operation. Without the risk of buying an expensive machine that will then sit in the corner. -
5️⃣ Tax benefits
Operating lease (service) is a fully tax-deductible expense that immediately reduces your tax base.
Who is renting ideal for?
Renting a welding robot is not for everyone. If you have a large-scale production and you know that the robot will run 3 shifts for the next 10 years, it is probably cheaper to buy.
But rental (RaaS) is a brilliant solution for:
- Small and medium-sized workshops that do not have millions available for investment.
- Custom manufacturing companies that have irregular orders.
- Companies that want to try automation first.
- Companies that need to immediately increase capacity due to an unexpected order.
What robots are typically rented?
Rental most often concerns collaborative robots (cobots) because their programming is extremely easy and can be handled by your existing welders.
In a rented cell, you would typically find high-end components such as a Universal Robots UR10e robotic arm (due to its great reach) paired with modern welding power sources and simple weld programming software.
Frequently Asked Questions about Robot Rental (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between rental (RaaS) and leasing?
Essential. Leasing is a financial product – it is a purchase in installments. After the payment is made, the robot is yours and you take care of the service. Rental (RaaS) is a service. You "borrow" the robot, it never belongs to you, and all service and care for it is carried out by the service provider.
2. What is included in the monthly fee?
Usually everything except consumables (welding wire, gas). That is: Hardware (robot, power source, table), software, installation, training, full service and support.
3. Can I buy back the robot after renting it?
Often yes. Many providers offer the option to buy back at the residual value after a certain rental period.
Conclusion: Stop waiting, start welding
Welding robot rental (RaaS) completely breaks down the barriers to entry into automation. You no longer have to make excuses about a lack of welders or high investments. It is a flexible, risk-free and financially smart way to immediately increase your production capacity and quality.
Stop waiting for welders who never come. Visit svet-robotu.cz and ask about renting a robotic welding cell for your workshop.