Which safety device is commonly used to stop welding robots?

The commonly used safety device to stop welding robots is the emergency stop button. This device is designed to immediately halt the robot's operation in the event of an emergency or unsafe condition. It is a crucial component in any automated system, allowing operators to take quick action to prevent accidents or injuries.

Emergency stop buttons are strategically placed within easy reach of operators, ensuring that they can be activated quickly if a situation arises that requires immediate cessation of all robotic activities. This functionality is vital in environments where welding robots operate, as the high temperatures and moving parts can pose significant risks.

Proximity sensors, limit switches, and safety gates have their specific functions, but they do not serve the same immediate stop purpose. Proximity sensors detect the presence of objects or people, providing input to the system but not necessarily stopping it instantly. Limit switches help in defining the operational boundaries for moving parts, but they are not designed for emergency stops. Safety gates provide controlled access to areas where robots operate, ensuring that only authorized personnel can enter, but they do not engage the stopping mechanism of the robot directly.