Gilchrist Metal Fabricating expanding facility, upgrading equipment

Gilchrist Metal Fabricating Co. is expanding its 70,000-sq.-ft. metal fabrication and machining facility in Hudson, N.H., to accommodate an AweA double-column, 5-face machining center for use in small- and large-volume fabrication projects.

The machine gives the company the capability to handle parts and components as large as 275 in. long by 157 in. wide by 96 in. high and up to 44,000 lbs. The bridge mill features a large-capacity tool changer for milling and drilling tooling, as well as two 90-degree-angle heads and a material handling system.

The expansion is expected to be completed in mid-April 2016, with the machine becoming fully operational a few weeks later.