Koike Aronson Ransome, a global provider of cutting, welding, and positioning equipment, announced the Cricket-I, an innovative new welding manipulator that is designed specifically for the small to mid-size fabrication market.

The Cricket-I manipulator with six feet of powered lift and six feet of manual reach, provides users with stable welding from end-to-end.

“The Cricket-I was developed specifically to meet customers’ demand for fixed automation equipment compact enough to fit into small to mid-size fabrication shops,” explained Cliff White, welding product manager. “With a lift speed of 20 IPM and a maximum load capacity of 150 pounds, you don’t have to sacrifice space for premium features with this machine.”

The Cricket-I comes standard with a manual travel car, including v-wheels and fork truck pockets for mobility and mast rotation with lock for add functionality.

Customers have the option of purchasing an entire pipe welding package that incorporates both the Cricket-I and Koike’s standard Wel-Handy Multi Next and WU-3 weaver that’s mounted on the end of the boom. This package is configured to use the three-inch by three-inch manual cross slide and built in weaving functionality to automate pipe welding, increasing quality and maximizing productivity.

Mounting brackets for control pendants and welding interface are both included at the weld head, keeping all controls in one place. The Wel-Handy Multi Next is detachable and can also be used as a stand-alone portable welding machine.

The Cricket-I welding line is manufactured in the United States, allowing for accessible service, parts and support. Koike works collaboratively with their customers to find the right solution with customized machines and services.