Lincoln Electric has developed a new way to teach welding techniques through a virtual welding system called VRTEX 360. The system incorporates technology Lincoln recently acquired from VRSim Inc., an East Hartford, Conn.-based leader in the development of training software and graphic simulation for industry and academia. This next-generation virtual welding training system was developed in partnership by teams at Lincoln Electric and VRSim Inc.

Lincoln’s VRTEX 360 is a VRAW (Virtual Reality Arc Welding) training solution and represents the next generation of VR welding training. The VRTEX 360 provides a “virtual” hands-on training experience that allows students to complete more passes than traditional training and provides real-time welding technique feedback similar to a video game to both trainers and students. The VRTEX 360 feeds computer-generated data with a virtual welding gun and helmet equipped with internal monitors. The student practices welding in virtual environments, including simulated welding booth training environment or field welding applications. Training using the VRTEX 360 can be conducted in various settings, including classrooms, an important consideration especially for schools and training centers with limited resources and shop space.