Turning yesterday’s tools into tomorrow’s opportunities
ArcAhead is a pioneering initiative designed to enable current users of augmented reality welding simulators to upgrade their ageing equipment while simultaneously contributing to social equity, workforce development, and environmental sustainability.
How Does It Work?
By upgrading to the latest Soldamatic 6.0 augmented reality welding simulators, participants not only receive a 15% discount on new hardware but also take part in a meaningful social impact project.
Rather than returning legacy simulators to the manufacturer, Weld Australia works collaboratively with customers to donate these units to underprivileged or Indigenous schools and communities, introducing welding as a career pathway and supporting Australia’s growing demand for skilled welders.
Simulators are cleaned, refurbished if necessary, and delivered along with awareness support and introductory training sessions. These communities use the simulators to:
- Host “Come & Try Welding” events
- Offer basic welding exposure to students
- Promote welding as a career path
For further information, please contact: Ben Mitchell (Director, Strategic Partnerships, Weld Australia) on 0467 419 657 or b.mitchell@weldaustralia.com.au.
Why Upgrade?
Upgrading ensures your training offering remains best-in-class and future-proofed against changing industry needs.
Plus, participants not only receive a 15% discount on new hardware but also make a meaningful social impact.
The Soldamatic 2026 (Version 6) represents a substantial upgrade over the Soldamatic Version 5, delivering enhanced visuals, more versatile training options, better real world preparation and improved feedback and analysis.
More Versatile Training Options: Suitable for beginners and advanced welding courses. Stronger foundation for building structured curricula, certification ready modules, or multi stage training series.
Better Real World Preparation: More accurate and meaningful training outcomes including tests on weld integrity, not just surface appearance, better prepares students for real-world welding and certification processes.
Stronger Camera System: The fixed-lens camera and reinforced protective frame provide a more durable, impact-resistant module. Drop testing confirms significantly improved robustness.
More Reliable Hose Assembly: Reinforced cabling and reduced torsion points improve mechanical resilience. Robotic cycle testing shows all electronics remain fully functional over extended use.
Higher Production Quality: Improved assembly tolerances and upgraded connectors create more consistent, low-stress builds. These changes reduce the likelihood of hardware faults.
Photorealistic Visual Rendering: PVR shading and lighting deliver metal surfaces, arcs, and puddles that closely resemble real welding conditions. This increases immersion and visual accuracy.
Enhanced TIG (GTAW) Simulation: More accurate arc behaviour, bead geometry, and puddle detail create a training experience closer to real TIG welding.
Realistic Torch-Tip Camera View: New torches with integrated tip cameras give trainees a true welding viewpoint, improving precision during complex tasks.
Real-Time Guidance and Analysis Tools: Live on-screen feedback helps students correct technique during the weld. Advanced tools—including cross-sections, bend tests, 3D views, and replay—support deeper evaluation.
Improved Fault Detection and UI: More accurate defect recognition and clearer interface visuals help instructors and students identify issues quickly and confidently.
Program Workflow
Step 1: Eligibility Assessment: Weld Australia will review your existing simulator fleet to confirm model and condition eligibility.
Step 2: Trade-In Proposal: You will receive a customised quote for your upgrade, including the 15% discount.
Step 3: Community Nomination: We’ll collaborate with you to nominate a community or school to receive your legacy simulators.
Step 4: Equipment Handover: Legacy units are collected, assessed, and prepared for reuse.
Step 5: Donation & Support: Simulators are delivered to the community along with basic orientation materials and optional on-site support or demonstration days.
