This paper deals with the analysis of the structural and functional features of mechatronic systems for implementation in welding technology and examines their specificities, emphasizing the advantages and disadvantages of robotic welding in comparison with conventional welding processes. An overview of the development of the application of robotic welding processes in the world and the Republic of Croatia is also provided. The paper introduces the structural and functional characteristics of the robotic welding system on the examples of different structures in production, with particular importance given to the practical solution of the MOTOMAN – EA1400N welding robot with the highest technical quality and provides a detailed insight into the creation and definition of a system of targets suitable for selection the most suitable model for welding robots in different designs of welded structures. The paper deals with the comparative features of the application of robotic welding systems with respect to conventional procedures through the presentation of a case study at the Faculty of Integrated Sciences and Engineering at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, USA. It points to the creation of a sustainable concept for the transition to robotic welding for small and medium-sized manufacturing plants in order to address the decision-making gap on the sustainability of robotic welding processes, while providing a comprehensive analysis of the economic, environmental and social aspects during the transition phase to robotic manufacturing system in welding technology. Theoretical analysis indicates a number of difficulties in the application of the robotic system in welding technology and implies the appearance of defects in the application of the robotic system in production by welding, but it is indispensable that the benefits of robotic welding technology occupy a significant place in most manufacturing plants with the outcome of competing in solving market challenges.