Category: Custom Machinery

Ever wondered how skyscrapers stand tall or cars drive smoothly? The secret lies in the meticulous art of welding and the intricate process of metal fabrication. While welding focuses on fusing metals, metal fabrication encompasses cutting, shaping, and assembling them into sturdy structures. 

What is Welding?

Welding is the process of joining two pieces of metal by melting them together, sometimes with a filler material, to create a strong bond. This technique is essential in various industries, ensuring the integrity and durability of metal structures.

How the Welding Process Works

Welding involves heating the metal surfaces to their melting point, creating a molten pool where the metals fuse. Depending on the technique, a filler material might be added to enhance the joint’s strength. As the weld cools, it forms a robust connection often as strong as the base metals.

Types of Welding

  1. Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): This method uses a consumable electrode coated in flux to lay the weld. It’s versatile and effective for welding different metals under various conditions.
  2. Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG): Employs a continuous wire feed as an electrode and uses inert gas to shield the weld, making it ideal for non-ferrous metals.
  3. Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG): Utilizes a non-consumable tungsten electrode and often a separate filler metal, providing precise control and high-quality welds.
  4. Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW): Similar to MIG welding but uses a tubular wire filled with flux, suitable for outdoor welding due to its tolerance to windy conditions.
  5. Submerged Arc Welding (SAW): Uses a continuously fed consumable electrode and a blanket of flux to prevent contamination, commonly used for thick steel sheets​​.

Welding up close

Applications of Welding

Welding is crucial in industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. It’s used to build everything from bridges and skyscrapers to car bodies and aircraft components. The strength and durability of welded joints make them ideal for high-stress applications.

Tools and Equipment for Welding

Welding requires specialized tools including welding machines, electrodes, and protective gear such as helmets and gloves. Different welding techniques demand specific equipment, but safety remains a constant priority.

Challenges in Welding

Welding poses challenges like controlling heat and material properties to avoid defects such as cracks and porosity. Additionally, welding in harsh environments or on challenging materials adds complexity to the task.

What is Metal Fabrication?

Metal fabrication involves creating metal structures by cutting, bending, and assembling metal components. Fabricators transform raw materials into finished products, encompassing a broader scope than welding.

How the Metal Fabrication Process Works

The metal fabrication process starts with design and planning. Once a design is finalized, the raw materials are cut to size using methods like shearing, sawing, or laser cutting. The next step involves bending the cut pieces into desired shapes using press brakes or other bending equipment. Finally, the pieces are assembled and joined using welding, bolting, riveting, or adhesives to create the final product.

Cutting Techniques in Metal Fabrication

  • Shearing: A method of cutting metal by applying a great shearing force.
  • Laser Cutting: Uses a laser to cut materials, offering high precision and the ability to cut intricate shapes.
  • Plasma Cutting: Involves cutting through electrically conductive materials using an accelerated jet of hot plasma.

Bending and Forming

Bending involves deforming the metal without removing material. This can be achieved through press brakes, roll bending, and other machinery designed to handle various thicknesses and types of metal.

Assembling and Joining

Assembly involves putting together the cut and bent components. Joining can be accomplished through welding, but also through other methods such as bolting, riveting, or using adhesives, depending on the requirements of the project.

Tools and Equipment for Metal Fabrication

Fabricators use a wide range of tools, including cutting torches, hydraulic presses, and CNC machines. Each tool serves a specific purpose in the fabrication process, ensuring precision and efficiency​.

Welding vs. Fabrication: Overlapping Roles and Distinctions

While welding is a critical component of metal fabrication, not all welders are fabricators, and not all fabricators are welders. Fabricators often need welding skills, but their role encompasses a broader range of activities including design, cutting, and assembly.

Skill Sets and Training

Welders focus on mastering various welding techniques and understanding material properties. Fabricators require a broader skill set, including proficiency in cutting, bending, and assembling metal components. Both roles demand precision and a keen eye for detail.

Career Pathways

Welders and fabricators can pursue various career paths, from working in industrial settings to specializing in artistic metalwork. Certification programs and apprenticeships provide essential training and open doors to advanced opportunities in the field.

Conclusion

Welding and metal fabrication are indispensable processes in the metalworking industry, each with its unique functions and challenges. Welding focuses on joining metals, while fabrication involves transforming raw materials into finished products. Both require specialized skills and tools, and together, they form the backbone of modern manufacturing and construction.

Understanding the difference between welding and fabrication not only clarifies the roles of professionals in the field but also highlights the intricate artistry and technical expertise involved in shaping the metal structures that support and enhance our daily lives.

Do You Need A Metal Fabrication or Welding Project Done? If You Can Dream it, We Can Customize it.

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Sheet metal fabrication is a cornerstone of modern manufacturing, crucial to various industries from automotive to aerospace. This intricate process transforms flat sheets of metal into diverse shapes and structures, utilizing specialized tools and techniques.

The Basics of Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal fabrication is the process of forming, cutting, and assembling metal sheets into functional products. It involves several stages including cutting, bending, and joining. The versatility of sheet metal allows for the creation of a wide range of products, from small components to large structures.

The Sheet Metal Fabrication Process

Design and Prototyping

The journey begins with design and prototyping. Engineers use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software such as Solidworks or Catia to create detailed blueprints and technical drawings. This ensures precision and feasibility before moving to production.

Cutting Techniques

Cutting is the first major step in the fabrication process. Various cutting methods are employed depending on the material and required precision:

  • Laser Cutting: Utilizes a high-powered laser to melt and vaporize the metal, offering high precision and clean edges. It’s ideal for intricate designs and tight tolerances​.
  • Waterjet Cutting: Uses a high-pressure stream of water mixed with an abrasive substance to cut through metal. This method is versatile and can handle various materials and thicknesses without introducing heat, which can distort the material​.
  • Plasma Cutting: Involves ionized gas to heat and cut through the metal. It’s faster than other methods and suitable for thicker materials, though it may introduce some heat-affected zones​​.

Sheet Metal Fabrication

Forming and Bending

Once cut, the metal is formed and bent into shape. This is achieved through several methods:

  • Brake Pressing: A manual process using a clamping bar and plate to bend the metal, suitable for small-scale production and prototyping​.
  • Roll Bending: Similar to brake pressing but used to create cylindrical or conical shapes​.
  • Press Brake Bending: Utilizes hydraulic machines with punches and dies for precision bending, suitable for sheets up to 6mm thick.

Joining Techniques

Assembling the cut and formed metal pieces into a final product involves various joining methods:

  • Fasteners: Includes screws, rivets, and bolts which provide secure and removable connections.
  • Welding: Melts the metal surfaces to fuse them together, creating strong, permanent bonds. Common welding techniques include MIG, TIG, and spot welding.
  • Adhesive Bonding: Uses specialized adhesives to join parts, offering weight reduction and improved aesthetics​​.

Finishing Techniques

Finishing enhances the appearance, durability, and functionality of the final product:

  • Painting: Provides a protective layer and allows for customization through various colors and finishes​.
  • Powder Coating: Involves applying a dry powder that is cured to form a durable, attractive finish​.
  • Anodizing: An electrochemical process that creates a protective oxide layer on the metal surface, enhancing corrosion resistance and providing a decorative finish​.

Types of Sheet Metal

Sheet metal comes in various types, each with unique properties suited to different applications:

  • Steel: Known for its strength and durability, it is commonly used in construction and automotive industries.
  • Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for aerospace and marine applications.
  • Stainless Steel: Offers excellent resistance to corrosion and staining, used in kitchen appliances and medical devices.
  • Copper: Valued for its excellent electrical conductivity, it is commonly used in electrical and roofing applications​.

Sheet Metal Fabrication Steamy

Common Applications of Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal fabrication finds its place in countless applications across various industries. Here are some of the most common uses:

Automotive Industry

Sheet metal is extensively used in the automotive industry to create body panels, chassis, and other structural components. Its durability and formability make it an ideal material for this purpose.

Aerospace Industry

In the aerospace sector, sheet metal is used to manufacture aircraft components, including fuselage panels, wings, and engine parts. The lightweight nature of materials like aluminum is particularly advantageous here.

Construction Industry

From HVAC systems to roofing and structural components, sheet metal plays a crucial role in the construction industry. Its versatility and strength are key factors in its widespread use.

Electronics and Electrical Industry

Sheet metal is used to create enclosures, brackets, and other components in the electronics and electrical industry. Copper, in particular, is prized for its excellent conductivity.

Benefits and Limitations of Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal fabrication offers numerous benefits but also comes with some limitations.

Benefits

  • Versatility: Sheet metal can be cut, bent, and shaped into virtually any form.
  • Durability: Products made from sheet metal are often strong and long-lasting.
  • Precision: Advanced tools and techniques allow for high levels of accuracy.

Limitations

  • Cost: The initial setup and tooling can be expensive.
  • Complexity: Some designs may be challenging to achieve.
  • Material Limitations: Not all metals are suitable for all applications.

Key Tools in Sheet Metal Fabrication

Various tools are used in the sheet metal fabrication process, each serving a specific purpose. Key tools include:

Press Brakes

Used for bending sheet metal into precise angles, press brakes are essential for creating complex shapes.

Shears

These tools are used for cutting sheet metal into smaller pieces. They come in various forms, from manual to hydraulic shears.

Laser Cutters

Laser cutters offer high precision and can cut through various thicknesses of sheet metal with ease.

Welding Equipment

Welding equipment is used to join pieces of metal together. Various welding techniques, such as MIG, TIG, and spot welding, are employed depending on the material and application.

Welding Equipment

Conclusion

Sheet metal fabrication is a dynamic and essential process in modern manufacturing. Combining precision, versatility, and strength, it enables the production of a wide range of products used in diverse industries. Understanding the intricacies of this process is crucial for anyone involved in manufacturing and engineering. By mastering the techniques and tools of sheet metal fabrication, manufacturers can continue to innovate and create high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of various sectors.

For more detailed information on sheet metal fabrication, refer to our website or contact us below.

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Metal fabrication is a comprehensive process that involves transforming raw metal materials into finished products. This process includes several techniques such as cutting, bending, and assembling, and is essential across various industries. Understanding the nuances of metal fabrication can help appreciate its significance in modern manufacturing and construction.

As the backbone of manufacturing and construction, metal fabrication’s significance cannot be overstated. This process ensures that structures are safe, durable, and capable of withstanding various stresses and environmental conditions. From towering skyscrapers to delicate medical devices, the precision and expertise involved in metal fabrication are what bring these structures to life.

Understanding Metal Fabrication

Metal Fabrication Definition: Metal fabrication is the act of constructing machines and structures from raw metal materials. This process encompasses various techniques including cutting, bending, and assembling, often facilitated by advanced machinery and skilled labor.

Types of Metal Fabrication Processes

  1. Cutting: This fundamental process involves slicing metal sheets into desired shapes and sizes. Traditional methods like sawing have evolved into modern techniques such as laser cutting, waterjet cutting, and plasma arc cutting, which offer precision and efficiency​.
  2. Drawing: Drawing involves pulling metal through a die to reduce its diameter, often used to create wires. This can be done at room temperature (cold drawing) or at elevated temperatures to ease the process.
  3. Folding: Folding manipulates metal to bend at specific angles, commonly using a brake press. This process is crucial for shaping sheet metal into desired forms​.
  4. Forging: One of the oldest fabrication techniques, forging shapes metal using compressive forces. This can be done at various temperatures, including cold, warm, and hot forging, depending on the metal and desired properties​.
  5. Extrusion: This process forces metal through a die to create objects with a fixed cross-sectional profile, such as pipes and tubes. Extrusion can be performed hot or cold, each method suited to different metals and end uses​.
  6. Casting: Metal casting involves pouring molten metal into a mold to achieve a specific shape. This versatile process is ideal for creating complex geometries and is widely used in manufacturing​.
  7. Welding: Welding joins two metal pieces by melting their edges and fusing them together. Various welding techniques, such as arc welding and gas tungsten arc welding, are employed based on the material and application.
  8. Stamping: Stamping involves placing metal sheets between dies and applying high pressure to shape the metal. This process combines punching, bending, and other operations to form parts with precision​.

Each of these processes plays a crucial role in metal fabrication. Cutting is often the first step, creating manageable pieces from large sheets or bars of metal. Bending follows, shaping these pieces into forms that can be assembled into more complex structures. Welding ensures these parts are securely joined, while machining refines the shapes and dimensions. Finally, assembling brings all the parts together into a cohesive whole.

Metal Fabrication

Structural Metal Fabrication

Structural metal fabrication focuses on creating components for buildings and other large structures. This includes beams, columns, and girders that form the backbone of construction projects. The strength and durability of these fabricated pieces are crucial for the safety and integrity of the structures they support.

In structural metal fabrication, precision and strength are paramount. Beams and columns must be capable of supporting immense loads, often under challenging conditions. The fabrication process involves stringent quality control measures to ensure that every piece meets the necessary standards. This includes rigorous testing for strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors such as corrosion.

Commercial Metal Fabrication

Commercial metal fabrication involves producing metal parts and products for various commercial applications. This can range from retail fixtures and furniture to components used in the service industry. Precision and quality are paramount in commercial metal fabrication, ensuring that the final products meet the required standards and specifications.

In commercial applications, aesthetics can be as important as functionality. Retail fixtures, for example, must not only be sturdy and functional but also visually appealing. This demands a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail in the fabrication process. Additionally, commercial metal products often need to meet specific regulatory standards, requiring meticulous documentation and quality control.

Custom Metal Fabrication

Custom metal fabrication is tailored to meet specific needs and requirements. It involves creating unique metal parts and structures that are not available off the shelf. This process is highly flexible, allowing for a wide range of designs and applications. Custom metal fabrication is often used in specialized industries where standard components won’t suffice.

The customization process begins with a detailed design phase, where engineers and designers collaborate to create bespoke solutions. This might involve unique shapes, sizes, or materials to meet specific requirements. Custom fabrication often employs advanced techniques such as CNC machining or 3D printing to achieve the desired results. This approach allows for a high degree of precision and flexibility, catering to unique and complex needs.

How Different Metals Are Fabricated

Different metals require different fabrication techniques. For example, steel is often cut with plasma or laser cutters, while aluminum may be machined or bent using specific tools to avoid cracking. Understanding the properties of each metal is crucial for selecting the appropriate fabrication methods.

Steel, known for its strength and durability, is a staple in construction and manufacturing. Its fabrication often involves high-temperature processes like welding and plasma cutting. Aluminum, on the other hand, is lighter and more malleable, making it suitable for applications where weight is a concern. Fabricating aluminum requires lower temperatures to prevent warping and cracking, and it is often machined to precise specifications.

How Does Custom Metal Fabrication Work?

Custom metal fabrication begins with a detailed design phase, where engineers and designers work together to create precise plans and specifications. These designs are then translated into physical products using various fabrication techniques. The process often involves iterative testing and adjustments to ensure the final product meets all requirements.

The initial design phase is critical, involving detailed discussions and planning to ensure that the final product meets the client’s needs. Advanced software tools are often used to create detailed models and simulations. Once the design is finalized, the fabrication process begins, using techniques like CNC machining, laser cutting, and welding. Throughout the process, quality control measures are implemented to ensure the final product meets all specifications.

Why You Should Outsource Metal Fabrication

Outsourcing metal fabrication can offer several advantages. Specialized fabrication companies have the expertise, equipment, and resources to handle complex projects efficiently. This can lead to cost savings, higher quality products, and faster turnaround times. Additionally, outsourcing allows businesses to focus on their core competencies while leaving the fabrication work to the experts.

By outsourcing metal fabrication, businesses can leverage the expertise and advanced equipment of specialized firms. This can lead to significant cost savings, as there is no need to invest in expensive machinery or training. Moreover, specialized fabricators often have established quality control processes, ensuring that the final products meet all necessary standards. This approach also allows businesses to focus on their core operations, improving overall efficiency and productivity.

Techniques in Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication employs a variety of techniques to achieve precise results. Some advanced methods include:

  • Laser Cutting: Provides high precision and is ideal for intricate designs.
  • CNC Machining: Uses computer numerical control to automate the fabrication process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
  • Water Jet Cutting: Uses high-pressure water mixed with abrasive materials to cut metal without generating heat.

Industries Relying on Metal Fabrication

Numerous industries depend on metal fabrication for their operations. These include:

  • Construction: For beams, columns, and other structural components.
  • Automotive: For frames, body parts, and engine components.
  • Aerospace: For aircraft frames, landing gear, and other critical parts.
  • Manufacturing: For machinery, tools, and equipment.

The Evolution of Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication has evolved significantly over the years. From ancient blacksmithing techniques to modern CNC machining, the field has continually adapted to new technologies and materials. Today’s fabricators use advanced software and machinery to achieve unprecedented levels of precision and efficiency.

The evolution of metal fabrication is marked by significant technological advancements. Ancient blacksmiths used hammers and anvils to shape metal, relying on skill and experience. The industrial revolution brought about new machinery and techniques, such as steam hammers and rolling mills. In the modern era, digital technology has revolutionized the field. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines and CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software allow for precise control and complex designs, transforming metal fabrication into a high-tech industry.

Conclusion

Metal fabrication is a dynamic and indispensable part of modern industry. From the towering skyscrapers that define our cities to the intricate components that power our technology, the impact of metal fabrication is all around us. Understanding this process not only highlights its importance but also underscores the remarkable skills and technologies that make it possible. Whether you’re in construction, manufacturing, or any other industry, metal fabrication is a cornerstone of progress and innovation.

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At Yarbrough Industries, your vision is our passion. We understand you have a lot on your plate. From meetings with project managers to juggling multiple projects, you need a vendor you can trust to understand your exact needs and get the job done right the first time. That’s where we come in. 

We are in the business of finding solutions for all your metal and manufacturing needs. In order to get the job done right for your project, our fabrication services are at your service:

Welding
Our equipment includes a cold saw, vertical bandsaws, a large abrasive saw and a CNC-controlled, auto feed, bundle cutting, and miter capable saw.

Sawing
We can mig, tig, and stick weld stainless, aluminum, and carbon steel of all types. We can also spray weld for shaft or seal surface repair.

Lasser
Using nitrogen gas to remove the secondary processes needed to prep the edge of parts for welding, painting, and forming. We can also etch part names or numbers directly on the part.

Waterjet
The intensifier pump can create up to 90,000 psi of water pressure to push garnet abrasive at speeds of mach3. This power, combined with CNC accuracy, allows us to provide top-quality parts in almost any material.

Metal Bending and Forming
With our CNC press brakes, we can work with pieces up to 200 tons and 12 feet long. Our section roller can roll up to 3 x 3 x ¼ angle and 8 x ¾ flat bar. The universal rollers allow us to roll round, square, and rectangular tubing. Our sheet and plate rolls can handle thin material up to ⅜” x 72”.

If You Can Dream it, We Can Customize it

We specialize in creating tailor-made solutions to fit your specific needs. Whether you’re in need of a small industrial part or a fully custom-built machine, we’ve got you covered. Our team of designers, fabricators, technicians and machinists are at the forefront of technology, and we pride ourselves in our ability to handle projects of any size, no matter how complex.

We understand that in today’s fast-paced world, you need solutions that are both efficient and effective, and that’s exactly what we provide. With us, you can have peace of mind that your project is in good hands. We understand that the complex nature of your work requires flexibility, customization, attention to detail, and thorough communication, which is why we work with you every step to ensure we get every detail right.

Efficiency is the Name of the Game

Imagine having access to the most advanced fabrication technology, where every detail of your parts is brought to life through cutting-edge design software and expertly executed by highly qualified and experienced fabricators. That’s exactly what our fabrication division offers. Utilizing custom metal laser cutting and custom CNC machining, combined with our top-notch quality control and quick turnaround, we bring efficiency and capability to your projects. See for yourself by watching this video and discover the possibilities of what our division can do for you

Trust is key when it comes to choosing a vendor to partner with. That’s why we invite you to tour our facility and have in-depth discussions with our team before making your final decision. Our flawless execution gives our clients the confidence that we’re on their team. We don’t just want to sell you parts or build your project; we want to see you succeed. Trust us to be your partner in success.

How can we make your next project high-quality, efficient and customized to meet your needs?

At Yarbrough Industries, we’re ready to get the job done. Let’s work together!

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Project success is based largely on meeting quick deadlines and staying on budget. When heavy machinery goes down, it can put the entire project in jeopardy. Knowing what resources to utilize during a crisis is essential to get business back on track. 

Working as a team to find a solution to the problem is important. Still, emergencies sometimes require outside support, especially regarding heavy machinery and equipment issues.

Where Can I Find a Qualified Vendor if Emergencies Arise?

While original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) may be your first choice because they can get you the exact part that is needed, they aren’t always the fastest or budget-friendly choice. A reliable, independent vendor can offer quality solutions quickly and usually save time and money. 

A local heavy construction equipment repair company specializing in customer and emergency services will know the importance of quality service. When looking for a reliable vendor in an emergency, be sure to consider a highly-rated vendor that offers warranties on their parts and services in your area

Is There Anyone on Staff That Can Fix my Equipment?

While established team members may be relied upon for emergency repairs, that is not always the best use of their time. Sometimes a third-party solution seems more costly and but when teams lack the technical expertise or simply lack the bandwidth to handle the emergency, having a reliable vendor is priceless. When it comes to heavy machine repairs, every delay means production is slowed or halted. Third party vendors can also be a great solution when key personnel are out of the facility either on vacation or assigned to another project and your team could use increased manpower for the amount of repair work needed. 

How Can I Keep my Project Timeline on Track?

Emergencies happen, but getting back on track is the most critical aspect of project success. Searching for a vendor that does mobile heavy equipment repair service near me? Yarbrough is ready to come to your job site and fix the problem with a part in inventory or fabricate aa custom part for heavy equipment repair. Knowing all the tools in your toolbox when an emergency happens allows for less panic and quick action.

Need help finding the right hydraulic parts?

At Yarbrough Industries, we have a large selection of hydraulic products and offer diagnostic, testing, repair, and replacement services to help get your operations back up and running in no time.

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Supply chain challenges have wreaked havoc across the nation. The increase in out-of-stock items is the new normal. When a part breaks and production is stopped money is on the line. Longer than average wait times and out-of-stock items can be detrimental to business. What if there was another way to get back to work? Finding a reliable and experienced vendor specializing in equipment repair and custom machinery can be a great solution.

Repairs

Working with old equipment can be frustrating. Add in a lack of part inventory, and the stakes are even higher. When a part that’s essential to keep the business running breaks, a solution is needed – and fast. Sometimes a new part isn’t going to get production back on track as quickly as possible. Partnering with a quality machine repair company is a business fundamental… It can mean being able to source a repair quickly and even having the option for an on-site visit for a mobile on-site repair. Time is money and having multiple repair option scan save you both. A repair can be more cost-effective than waiting for an out-of-stock part, but the right repair resource is key.

Custom Machinery

If a part is damaged beyond repair and supply chain constraints simply mean there is no way to get the part in a timely manner, custom machinery can get business back on track. A custom machine shop can create the exact part and eliminate the need to wait on an out-of-stock part to become available. As a local machine shop with expertise in custom machinery we typically have shorter wait times and can get your project quoted quickly. When you choose custom machinery, you get the exact part or machine that will provide the best solution to your problem.

Reliable Vendor

When times are tough and you are fighting out-of-stock shortages that can stop your business, choosing a reliable machine shop is important to get the work done quickly and within budget. When emergencies arise, and the work has to be done out of house to get operations back on track, having a partner you trust with expertise and industry knowledge is essential.

At Yarbrough, we utilize all the tools in our toolbox to keep our customers’ operations on track. Partnering with a local machine shop is a great solution to get quick repairs or custom machinery. Stop worrying about out-of-stock surges and call the expert team at Yarbrough Industries for a free quote today.

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3 Ways to Ensure Your Industrial Service Vendor can Handle Custom Machining Services

3 ways to ensure your industrial service vendor can handle custom machining services yarbrough blog header

Searching “custom metal fabrication near me” is not enough to find a qualified and reliable vendor. It’s time-consuming to find an experienced vendor capable of providing the right services, especially when you need more time designing and building products. When custom machining services are needed, finding a vendor that provides quality metal fabrication and exceeds expectations is essential. Production times, false guarantees or receiving complex parts short of the necessary spec qualifications can drag projects out, leaving engineers juggling tighter project timelines between vendors and clients.

Instead, we’ve put together three ways you can review a custom machining services and quality machine repair service vendor, including top qualities to look for to get the quality custom machining services you need.

1. Review Prior Experience

A great starting place is asking, “Has your team worked on a project like this before?” While it may seem simple, experience is a great teacher. Benefits include vendors who foresee problems, efficiently execute projects and accurately provide complete timelines for projects. A shop that provides various industrial services is more likely to have the techniques and experience to create exactly what is needed for custom machine parts while anticipating any potential problems. An industrial services vendor’s range of products and services provides the first clue of what their team is capable of managing. Ask about experience, not only for the size of the project but also about customization levels. While a smaller shop may specialize in custom machining, they might not have the ability to produce at a high enough volume for another project. Likewise, many high-volume plants lack the ability to create custom parts as the volume of production cannot be interrupted. Either way, it’s best not to assume and hear for yourself about their prior experience as it pertains to current capabilities.

At Yarbrough, we provide industrial services from expert metal fabrication, machine maintenance, engineering, part sales, and in-shop or on-site heavy equipment repair. We’ve also been doing this for over 75 years – giving our teams the experience and expert knowledge to become a one-stop shop for any project. Our high-tech equipment and expert-level knowledge in metal forming and bending has allowed us to work on various projects, from custom machining services to quality machine repair. We offer intricacy in designs and customization of parts — we consult directly with our clients to ensure we successfully execute any and all complex projects.

2. Discuss the Project Specs

The scale of a project for custom machining services greatly affects how vendors approach projects and can also have a large impact on the ability to give attention to details and produce high-quality parts. Some engineers default to high-volume plants for larger projects, but this is not always the best approach. Since these shops deal with many customers, they cannot provide the same quality level of parts and are more liable to produce parts that don’t meet the spec standards set. Yes, it may save a smidge of the budget, but the time spent to have to reevaluate with the spec standards aren’t met is much more costly. Smaller shops are an excellent resource for large projects since they have the same resources to get the work done but have the ability to evaluate complex instructions with more attention to detail.

At Yarbrough, our capabilities extend beyond simple fabrication. Our on-site hydraulics and machining divisions can produce the same volume as larger shops, but can also provide complex, custom machining services and quality machine repair.

3. Consider Project Execution

When dealing with complex custom parts, it’s important to understand the standard operating procedures and processes a vendor has in place to produce what you need accurately and on time. Quick reference guides, project checklists and quality control standards are all great topics that should be brought up for deeper conversation.

At Yarbrough, we pride ourselves on technical precision and efficient workflow. When these two combine, the result is that projects are executed to meet all specifications while delivering on project deadlines.

With a long-standing reputation for excellent customer service, Yarbrough is committed to listening to your needs and executing projects with precision. We build long-standing relationships with our customers as they grow to rely on us time and time again. A Yarbrough partnership means you can redirect your focus where needed most while we focus on the work.

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6 Tips to Reduce Machine Maintenance Costs

6 Tips to Reduce Machine Maintenance Costs

Whether you work for a large manufacturing company or a smaller facility, if you are responsible for overseeing machine and equipment maintenance, you know how important it is to keep costs down and reduce unscheduled downtime.

Luckily there are a few ways you can minimize equipment service and control repair costs. Here is a closer look at six maintenance cost-reduction strategies you can use.

Monitor Expenses

Monitor Machine Maintenance Expenses

Keeping track of how much you’ve spent on labor, parts, and supplies for specific machines over time will help you determine machines and equipment that cost the most money to operate and maintain. If you find there are machines in need of frequent repair, then you have the information available to make an informed decision when it comes to repairing or replacing.

 If you’re at a loss, a skilled engineer or maintenance technician can help troubleshoot the underlying problem and take corrective action.

 

Create Maintenance Schedules

Create Preventative Maintenance Schedules

While not all equipment breakdowns or repairs are predictable, having a routine preventative maintenance schedule can help keep them minimized by keeping machines operating at their best.

Routine maintenance should involve inspecting various equipment components and ensuring machines are up to the manufacturer’s specifications.You can use the owner’s manual to help create preventative maintenance schedules and stay on top of inspections and routine service.

When it comes to creating preventative maintenance schedules, consider basing them on operating hours rather than on a calendar. Usage times will vary by machine, meaning you could be over or under-servicing your equipment based on actual hours. You can determine if you need to decrease or increase service intervals by periodically reviewing the results.

 

Spend Your Budget Wisely

Spend Maintenance Budget Wisely

Between repairing or replacing a piece of equipment? A good rule of thumb is to weigh repair costs against your machine’s residual value (what you’d get if you sold it today). If repairs cost more than the machine is worth, apply your money toward a new machine with better technology that will last longer. 

When it comes time to replace a piece of equipment, keep in mind investing in a lower-priced machine may end up costing you more in the long run. While higher-quality machines may cost more upfront, they typically require less maintenance work overall if maintained.

 

Optimize Equipment and Parts

Optimize Spare Machine Parts

One of the best ways to keep machine maintenance costs down is to develop a strategy to buy and organize spare parts. If you don’t have spare parts such as hydraulic pumps or hoses in stock, then you run the risk of increasing your average repair time.

Aside from keeping an adequate supply of spare parts handy, it helps to ensure there is a degree of similarity between your machines so you can use them interchangeably. Having the same parts fit many machines is cost-efficient and makes it easier to receive technical assistance from either the manufacturer or a professional service technician.

When it comes to purchasing parts, keep in mind ordering parts in bulk will allow you to negotiate better prices.

 

Train Your Machine Operators

Train Maintenance Staff

In addition to training maintenance supervisors and mechanics on equipment, educating your operators can help keep costs down.

Since operators work directly with the equipment, they are in an ideal position to help identify potential problems and perform more common maintenance tasks such as inspection and lubrication. By training non-maintenance staff, you will have fewer periods of unscheduled downtime and avoid expensive and time-consuming repairs.

 

Contact Qualified Service Technicians

Call Qualified Service Technicians

While having a reliable in-house maintenance staff is ideal, the skills to maintain or repair certain pieces of equipment properly will vary. If a machine goes down, trial and error can be an expensive way to learn how to repair your equipment.

If maintenance or repair seems questionable, make sure to contact qualified technicians trained with the right skills and practices needed to minimize unplanned downtime and repair costs. This will save a lot of headaches and unnecessary costs down the road. 

Need assistance with your machine maintenance or equipment repair?

Our expert technicians provide mobile on-site repair to help get your operations back up and running in no time. 

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What Is Machining?

Yarbrough Industries offers a variety of machining processes to ensure success with various types of projects and help your company successfully create the workpiece you need. But what exactly is machining?

The term machining encompasses a broad range of technologies and techniques. A high-level definition might be removing material from a workpiece using power-driven machine tools to shape it into an intended design. Almost all metal components and parts require some form of machining during the manufacturing process. Other materials, such as plastics, rubbers, and paper goods, are also commonly fabricated through machining processes.

Machining Tools

Machining tools may be used alone or in conjunction with other tools. There are many types of tools that can be used for various manufacturing processes, and all are important to achieve the intended part geometry. You will typically hear the following terms when referring to different machining tools:

Boring tools – These tools enlarge holes previously cut into the material and are typically used as finishing equipment.

Cutting tools – Saws, shears and other sharp instruments are basic examples of cutting implements. These can be used to cut material with predetermined dimensions, such as sheet metal, into the desired shape.

Drilling tools – These are similar to boring tools, but they are used to create holes with two-edged rotating devices. The round holes typically run parallel to the axis of rotation.

Grinding tools – These instruments apply a rotating wheel to grind down rough edges and achieve a fine finish or make light cuts on a workpiece.

Milling tools – A milling tool employs a rotating cutting surface with several blades to create non-circular holes or cut unique designs out of the material.

Turning tools: Lathes are the most commonly recognized turning tool, but these tools can be anything that rotates a workpiece on its axis while a cutting tool shapes it to form.

Machining Technologies

There are two primary types of technology that are used to shape your workpiece. Burning machine technology uses heat, such as welding, while erosion machine technology uses water or electricity to erode material off the workpiece. You can find more in-depth information on types of cutting in this article.

The most common types of welding and burning technologies include laser cutting, oxy-fuel cutting and plasma cutting.

Laser cutting machines emit a narrow, high-energy beam of light that effectively melts, vaporizes, or burns material. CO2 and Nd: YAG lasers are the most common types used in machining. Laser cutting is a great choice for shaping steel or etching patterns into a piece of material. Its benefits include high-quality surface finishes and extreme cutting precision.

Oxy-fuel cutting is also known as gas cutting. This method employs a mixture of fuel gases and oxygen to melt and cut away material. Acetylene, gasoline, hydrogen, and propane are frequently used due to their high flammability. This method’s benefits include high portability, low dependence on primary power sources, and the ability to cut thick or hard materials, such as sturdy steel grades. It’s a great option for on-the-go machining.

Plasma cutting torches fire an electrical arc to transform inert gas into plasma. This plasma reaches extremely elevated temperatures and is applied to the workpiece at high speed to melt away unwanted material. The process is often used on electrically conductive metals that require a precise cut width and minimal prep time. 

Erosion machining tools differ from burning tools by doing exactly what it sounds like; they erode the workpiece to shape it, rather than melting the excess stock. The two main types of erosion technologies are water jet cutting and electric discharge machining (EDM).

Water jet cutting uses a high-pressurized stream of water to cut through the material. Sometimes abrasive powder is facilitating more efficient erosion. Water jet cutting is typically used on materials that can suffer damage or deformation from a heat-affected zone.

Electric discharge machining is also known as spark machining because it uses electric arcing discharges to create micro-craters that rapidly result in complete cuts. EDM is used in applications requiring complex geometrical shapes in hard materials and at close tolerances. EDM requires the base material to be electrically conductive, which limits its use to ferrous alloys.

CNC Machining

Computer numerical control machining (CNC machining) can be used in conjunction with a broad range of technologies and tools. It is a computer-aided technique that requires software and programming, usually in the G-code language, to guide a tool in shaping the workpiece according to preset parameters. As opposed to manually guided methods, CNC machining is an automated process. CNC machining has many benefits, including high production cycles, low manufacturing costs, and uniform production. Once a CNC machine has been properly coded, it usually needs minimal maintenance or downtime, allowing for a faster production rate. Due to its turnover speed and low manual labor requirements, CNC can be a cost-efficient process, particularly for high-volume production runs. CNC machining is typically precise and yields a high level of design consistency among its products.

Precision Machining

Precision machining is any machining process that requires unusually small cutting tolerances (between 0.013 mm and 0.0005 mm, as a rule of thumb) or surface finishes finer than 32T. Like CNC, precision machining can be applied to a wide number of fabrication methods and tools. Factors such as stiffness, damping, and geometric accuracy can influence the exactness of a precision tool’s cut. Motion control and the machine’s ability to respond at rapid feed rates are also important in precision machining applications.

If you are looking for a machining expert for your next project, be sure to look for someone who offers the full range of tools and technologies. Yarbrough Industries can help determine what you need for a successful outcome. 

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This industry moves fast, but you can move even faster if you’re up to date on trends, technical developments, and best practices. The Yarbrough Industries blog is a go-to source for valuable, timely and detailed information. Sign up to ensure that you don’t miss a single post.

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machining, metal fabrication, metalwork

Why You Should Hire A Local Machine Shop

machine-repair

When you need to hire a machine shop, it’s important to work with someone you can trust to get the job done right the first time. Working with a local company makes this much more likely. But why?

A local machine shop offers several advantages. When you are weighing your options, consider the following benefits of working with someone in your own backyard and what you should look for when doing so:

    • You can be more specific: Clear communication and detailed specifics are essential to getting the end result you desire. Being able to deliver this information in person allows you to make sure your parameters are accurately conveyed and your machine shop understands exactly what you need. You can specify the tolerances needed and work with the local company to achieve accurate measurements and optimal results. 
    • You can make roughness smooth: An important aspect of your project is determining the desired roughness of the surface. Do you want smooth components, with a very polished surface? This depends greatly on the functionality of the parts. A local professional can explain how the roughness will affect the performance of your equipment and work with you to decide what roughness is best for your project.
    • You can choose wisely: The materials you use for your manufacturing affect the final durability and performance. It also greatly affects the cost of production. Your local machine shop will review your options with you and let you personally examine various materials to determine which is best. You may even be able to look at similar products the shop has made in the past to make an informed comparison.
    • You can enjoy savings: A local shop can save you both time and money. Enjoy a smaller budget by saving on delivery costs. Complete your project faster by cutting out delivery wait times. By working with someone local, you won’t be wondering where your parts are in transit or when the project will be completed.
    • You can be involved: When you work with a local machine shop, you can be actively involved in the manufacturing process. This will provide peace of mind and a better overall experience with production.
    • You can complete the process: Once the machine shop has designed and manufactured your piece, they can also install it. It is typically easier for the same professionals who created the part to also perform the installation. Working with someone local makes this possible.
    • You can help your community: Obviously, we all want to do what we can to ensure that the community we live in is becoming better every year. Working with a local business helps your own community and you know that they will provide reliable, timely service to keep their reputation spotless.

Shop local with Yarbrough Industries! You’ll enjoy the advantages of working with a local machine shop right here in the heart of the Ozarks while receiving the best quality from some of the top professionals in the industry. Reach out to us today with any questions or to get started on your next project.

Get direct access to industry-leading content

This industry moves fast, but you can move even faster if you’re up to date on trends, technical developments, and best practices. The Yarbrough Industries blog is a go-to source for valuable, timely and detailed information. Sign up to ensure that you don’t miss a single post.

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Best return on investment, choosing a metal fabricator, expert welder, fabrication, Gas Metal Arc Steel Welding, metal fabrication, metal fabrication shop, metal projects

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