The Evolution of Welding Technology: How nexAir Is Leading the Charge in Innovation

Estimates suggest that the history of welding dates back to 3000 BC, when humans first started working with bronze to create small circular boxes. In 2025, it’s safe to say that a lot has changed, but welding is still going strong. The only difference is that today’s welders work with advanced tools to create high precision welds for a diverse set of applications. From aerospace to construction to manufacturing, each industry works with different materials and systems to achieve incredible results. 

At nexAir, we’ve been at the forefront of this revolution for over 80 years, offering advanced welding equipment, supplies, and safety gear to clients across the Southeast. Here’s how we’re leading the charge into the future. 

Automated Welding Systems 

Modern problems require modern solutions and no innovation has been more promising for productivity than automation. Welding robots are capable of working on time-consuming tasks accurately and reliably, allowing workshops to increase their output, without sacrificing quality. They also work consistently, and around the clock, making them the ideal companion for highly-skilled but overworked professionals. 

nexAir’s Vectis Cobot tool is the perfect example of automation in action. This system is specifically adapted for high-quantity production and small fabrication projects, and can be scaled to meet any requirements. Our team will be happy to assist in the set-up.

Energy Efficient Technology 

Sustainability is a crucial factor in 2025 and beyond — and fabrication workshops are increasingly looking for eco-friendly solutions. 

At nexAir, we’re equally committed to driving down carbon footprints and have made sustainable practices a fundamental part of our approach. Apart from our strides in welding automation, which stands to significantly reduce waste, we also provide the supplies and KnowHow to embrace more environment-friendly welding practices — such as friction stir welding, or magnetic pulse welding. 

Our efficient equipment allows clients to use less energy, while advanced gas recycling systems capture and reuse most gases emitted in the welding process. This helps our clients stay compliant with the latest regulations and help shape a net-zero future.

Data-Driven Quality Control

It’s said that a poor carpenter blames their tools, but at nexAir, we’ve flipped the script. Our advanced welding equipment is fitted with monitoring systems and quality control checks that ensure all human-made welds are of the highest quality. 

These solutions harness data from automated welding systems to track various crucial parameters — which are then made available for the whole team. When analyzed, this information allows workers to adjust gas levels, monitor flow rates, and ensure that the final product meets specifications. By taking quality control out of the hands of the skilled workforce, we give them more time to be creative and innovative with designs.

As Always, Safety First

Safety features have evolved tremendously over the last 20 years. The hazards of inhaling welding gas are well documented, with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) noting that the most common injuries include burns, eye damage and electrical shocks. 

At nexAir, we’ve ensured our safety gear has evolved along with our welding equipment — offering several novel solutions to the problem. Apart from helmets, suits, and gloves, we ensure gas cylinders are equipped with shut off valves, and provide leak detection sensors. With our high-quality PPE and safety training sessions, we want to ensure that the future of welding is not just more streamlined, but safer. 

Forge Forward with nexAir

In between automated welding systems, advanced safety gear, and energy efficient processes, it’s clear that the process will see a significant shift in the coming years. As more companies look for new ways to enhance productivity and efficiency, nexAir can be the perfect partner, helping you Forge Forward with the latest equipment.

Visit our online store, nexAir NOW, to check out some of our advanced welding tools.