Boosting Plastic Welding with Robotic Precision

Author: Chloe Stambaugh, Marketing Associate, Leister Technologies USA

Extrusion welding in the plastic fabrication sector has long relied on manual labor—a process known for being time-consuming and inconsistent. PRE-TEC, the automation division of The Willamette Valley Company (WVCO), set out to change that. Headquartered in Eugene, Oregon, the company is recognized for its customized, turnkey automation solutions. As a FANUC Authorized System Integrator, PRE-TEC saw a clear opportunity to bring robotic precision to a traditionally hands-on process.

Robotic Welding Powered by Leister

Between 2023 and 2025, PRE-TEC collaborated with Leister and FANUC to engineer a breakthrough in extrusion welding automation. At the heart of the system is Leister’s WELDPLAST 200-i, seamlessly integrated into a FANUC 6-axis robotic arm. 

Key Features

• FANUC servo-driven extruder feed for precise control 
• Consistent force and speed regulation 
• Versatility for a wide range of thermoplastic applications 
• Industry 4.0-ready integration

This powerful combination delivers unmatched productivity, repeatability, and weld quality—bringing robotic precision to every seam. 

A New Standard for the Industry 

For customers, this means greater operational efficiency and reliable weld performance with less human error. For Leister, the project highlights the flexibility and advanced integration capabilities of the WELDPLAST 200-i in high-tech environments. And for PRE-TEC, it marks an important milestone in their mission to bring cutting-edge automation to industries worldwide.

Strategic Gains for Leister 

• Strengthened presence in robotic and automated manufacturing 
• Expansion into FANUC-integrated systems 
• Real-world validation of the WELDPLAST 200-i’s capabilities 
• Long-term business opportunities in plastic fabrication

“PRE-TEC’s goal was to provide a robust and scalable automation solution,” says Jeff Johnston, Engineering Manager at PRE-TEC. “Thanks to Leister’s technology and our engineering team’s dedication, we’ve created a system that raises the bar for what’s possible in plastic welding automation.”

Ready to Automate Your Welding Process?

Leister’s automation-ready extrusion tools—like the WELDPLAST 200-i—help manufacturers boost precision, reduce variability, and scale production with confidence. Let’s shape the future of plastic welding together. Contact our experts today and bring automation to your shop floor.