Introducing plastic welding to FMG RS

FMG RS rollout of plastic welding technology supports a shift from replacement to repair, an approach which enhances operational efficiency and reduces the environmental impact within a vehicle repair.

The plastic welding roll-out is a good example of how we deliver technical innovation and sustainability improvements.

Historically replacement had been the more obvious route, especially as welding technology had drawbacks and limited applications. Last year, our training centre team invited in a broad range of manufacturers and put them all through their paces, not only in terms of breadth of application but also how it could minimise our emissions profile from the overall repair process. Having selected a next-gen nitrogen generating welding machine which welds ABS materials and also polypropylene materials, we then partnered with our selected supplier to ‘train the trainer’ – using our practical expertise alongside the manufacturer to ensure best outcomes across a broad range of applications.

While the initial focus has been on bumper repair, this now extends to include headlights, washer bottles, undertrays, and even unconventional items like punctured AdBlue containers.  The overall cost saving to a repair can run into £000 compared to replacing a complex part such as a headlight or fully integrated bumper.  Welding machines have now been rolled out across the FMGRS bodyshop network.

Our industry leading internal training capability is a cornerstone of FMG RS competitive advantage.  For plastic welding, a holistic training approach was adopted, involving panel beaters, painters, estimators, and managers. The result has been improved key-to-key times, reduced vehicle off-road durations, and enhanced technician morale by giving them a sense of achievement. It has also helped upskill staff across roles, not just welders, reinforcing a culture of technical excellence. Apprentices are trained on the latest welding technology through a bespoke course, and we have even asked to train industry peers on plastic welding equipment by our manufacturer partner, reflecting our industry leading capability.