(C) Cyber-Weld
Hanwha Ocean’s Okpo Shipyard in Geoje, Gyeongsangnam-do, is transforming into a testing ground for "Physical AI"—a synergy of AI and robotics—setting a new benchmark for the future of shipbuilding. Hanwha Ocean recently announced a bold objective to achieve 100% automation of welding processes in its docks by 2030, a strategic move to address the labor shortage caused by the retirement of skilled workers and to stay ahead in the global technological race.
Robots Leading the Site: A Fivefold Increase in Productivity
Currently, the AI Transformation (AX) rate in indoor factories at the Okpo Shipyard has already reached 67%. On-site, yellow welding robots work at speeds comparable to veteran craftsmen, while human workers have transitioned from manual labor to supervisory roles. "Since one operator can manage four to five robots simultaneously, the hourly throughput is effectively increased by four to five times," said Koh Young-ho, head of the Production Automation Promotion Team at Hanwha Ocean.
Digitalizing High-Risk Processes and Shifting Labor Dynamics
Beyond welding, Hanwha Ocean is aggressively implementing AX in high-risk, high-intensity processes such as painting and outfitting. The pre-treatment painting process, which involves blasting steel beads to remove impurities, aims for 50% automation by 2030. Similarly, cable outfitting—often performed in cramped spaces—will see its automation rate rise from 30% to 60%. This shift is designed to improve hazardous working environments, potentially revitalizing domestic employment and reducing the heavy reliance on foreign labor.
Exporting AX Solutions to the Global Market
Hanwha Ocean’s digital innovation is set for global expansion. The company plans to implement its proven intelligent robot solutions at the Philly Shipyard in the U.S., which it acquired in 2024. Starting as early as late 2027, these AI robots will serve as a bridgehead for entering the North American merchant ship market and performing U.S. Navy Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services. To overcome hardware certification hurdles, Hanwha Ocean is pursuing a two-track strategy by collaborating with Hanwha Robotics to ensure its technology meets international standards.
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