A a multiple welding method having an improved starting process in which the control unit of the guide electrode starts welding-wire advancing of the guide electrode and sends a synchronization signal to the control unit of the trailing electrode when the guide electrode has moved a certain distance or for a certain time. The control unit of the trailing electrode starts welding-wire advancing of the trailing electrode in dependence on the received synchronization signal before the guide electrode touches the workpiece.

A method and apparatus for welding include initiating a pulse welding process includes initiating a welding arc by providing CC type welding power, maintaining the arc by providing CV type power. Then, pulse type welding power is provided. The method and system can be used to start short circuit, or other welding processes by providing short circuit power, or welding power of a given mode, instead of providing pulse power. Also, in one alternative, a method and system of initiating a pulse, short circuit, or given welding process includes initiating a welding arc by providing CC type welding power at least until a pseudo-equilibrium for the arc is established. Then, providing welding power in a pulse, short circuit, or the given mode.

A welding robot which can easily perform welding while using the robot without laborious preparation for manual welding or teaching.

A welding robot includes a welding torch portion connected to a distal end of an arm which is movable in accordance with an external force, a grasping portion capable of moving the welding torch portion, and a switch portion, and the switch portion enables performance of arc welding in an ON state, while disables the performance of the arc welding in an OFF state.

A welding robot which can easily perform welding while using the robot without laborious preparation for manual welding or teaching.

A welding robot includes a welding torch portion connected to a distal end of an arm which is movable in accordance with an external force, a grasping portion capable of moving the welding torch portion, and a switch portion, and the switch portion enables performance of arc welding in an ON state, while disables the performance of the arc welding in an OFF state.