The Fabricator July 2019

The best metrics help people get the job done. But instituting helpful performance metrics requires thorough planning. It’s never as easy as, “Hey, let’s measure this!”

Code welding is a complicated business. Luckily, there are comprehensive road maps to follow. When in doubt, refer to the code for welding. Learn more here.

You invest in new bending equipment and still have issues. What gives? It might be the material or the way it’s presented to the press brake.

3D CAD tools that are commonly used in sheet metal and casting also may be applied to leathercraft.

When job shops focus on increasing order velocity—shortening the time between order entry and shipping—capacity and profits grow.

Since the term was coined, Industry 4.0 has painted a picture of a far different manufacturing future. In metal fabrication, that picture is just starting to come together.

Can a high-mix, low-volume job shop use takt times? It can, but it can’t just force-fit the traditional approach.

From its origin as a manufacturer of bellows systems, St. Louis Blow Pipe, St. Louis, Mo., has expanded into other markets, changed its focus and its name, and opened a new location in Meridian, Miss. Despite a staff in the low dozens, the Meridian location does many surprisingly large, sophisticated projects.

Metal fabricators can learn some important lessons on improving the value of their companies from the recent sale of Superior Tube Products, Davenport, Iowa.

Chicago Metal Fabricators purchased a 10- by 30-foot laser cutting machine to complement its 30-foot-long press brakes.

Metal fabrication is very much a family business, but not every business has a detailed succession plan. Anchor Partners is providing options.

Welding guru Marty Rice gives an overview of SMAW, the three major defects, the cardinal sin, tips and tricks, and how to achieve an effective weld.

Tempel Steel, Chicago, keeps its workers safe and was honored for that recognition with the 2019 Rusty Demeules Award for Safety Excellence from the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association.

A punch/laser combination machine introduces serious efficiencies on the shop floor. But there’s a learning curve too, especially when it comes to programming.

After its president died unexpectedly in 2006, Herr & Sacco could have shuttered for good. But leaders moved forward and got to work creating a bright future.