[Yonhap News Agency/ June 19, 2024] Samsung Heavy Industries unveiled on the 19th its pioneering "Keyhole Plasma Arc Welding (K-PAW)" equipment, marking its debut in the shipbuilding sector. K-PAW harnesses high-temperature plasma arcs for welding, offering rapid and efficient fusion.

This innovative technology automates ultra-layered welding, achieving a remarkable two-round welding time of just 20 minutes, effectively tripling welding speeds. With a surge in orders for LNG carriers and increased demand for stainless steel piping, Samsung Heavy Industries anticipates K-PAW to assume a pivotal role. 

An official from Samsung Heavy Industries expressed plans to launch an AI-driven automatic welding system by year-end, aimed at further enhancing automation and unmanned operations.