Tight Fabrication

Understanding Tight Fabrication Tolerances

Before hiring contract manufacturing companies or any specialist to handle your steel fabrication requirements, it is imperative that you understand tight fabrication tolerances and how they may affect the quality of what is delivered to you.

  • What Are Tight Fabrication Tolerances? 

Fabrication tolerances, otherwise often referred to as engineering tolerances, refers to the amount of variation that is allowed when it comes to the physical dimensions of items, for example, in the case of mechanical engineering, the space that exists between a bolt and a nut. If fabrication tolerances are tight, it means that there is very little room, if any at all, for any variation. In short, you will need a contract manufacturing company that will be able to promise you meticulous results. This type of meticulous work can only be undertaken for professionals who boast the right amount of experience and the right tools for the job.

  • When Tight Fabrication Tolerances Are Unnecessary 

In order to decide how tight your fabrication tolerances need to be, it is always advisable to consult with an experienced risk management team. They will be able to ascertain whether the same results are achievable with slightly more relaxed tolerances, or if extremely tight fabrication tolerances are essential if you are to maintain the integrity and quality of the finished product.

It is important to remember that tight fabrication tolerance, when unnecessary, may increase the cost of steel fabrication and increase the time that it takes in order to complete it. Optimizing fabrication tolerances to ensure the best quality final product, along with the lowest possible cost and turnaround times, is essential when hiring contract-manufacturing companies.

Here at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co., we specialize in steel fabrication and mechanical engineering, with a focus on sticking firmly to our clients’ tight fabrication tolerances. For more information about us and how we can help you, do not hesitate to get in touch with our team.

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All the Advantages of Custom Equipment Design and Manufacture for Your Industry

There are several advantages to making use of top-quality mechanical engineering and machining to custom design and manufacture your production equipment, irrespective of whether similar off-the-shelf options exist. These include:

  • Lowered manufacturing costs,
  • Higher capacity, output, and productivity,
  • Better quality and quality control, and
  • Innovation (both in-house and with your expert team of mechanical engineers).

All the above is offered by one of Canada’s leading contract manufacturing, custom metal, and mechanical engineering companies, right here in Oshawa, Ontario.

Lower Manufacturing Costs 

Custom designed equipment may cost your business in the immediate to short-term, but your long-term costs will be significantly lower. This is thanks to the improved efficiency offered by using custom mechanically engineered equipment, in addition to the reduced maintenance costs and the potential downtime your business might experience by using ‘off-the-shelf’ equipment.

Improved Efficiency for Productivity Boost 

Equipment, mechanically engineered to meet 100% of your needs and specifications, will boost productivity from the outset. Not all off-the-shelf equipment can meet your requirements, and increased automation by incorporating custom-engineered equipment into your manufacturing process will boost productivity.

Automation of tasks and processes can be taken to new levels with custom designed and manufactured equipment for your business. So, you will also go a long way toward eliminating human resource factors that can impact heavily on your business.

Precision Custom-Made Equipment for Best Quality Products

Specialized equipment design and custom-made equipment that is engineered for quality, durability, and precision according to your unique, competition and quality-driven specifications, will give you better quality production and enhanced quality control.

Any adjustments or alterations or enhancements that need to be made will be far easier quicker to do (and less costly) than it would be with off-the-shelf machinery. And, you will go a long way to eliminating one of the potential costly factors in any business – human error.

Increased Automation for Business Growth and Development

Increased automation, through the use of custom engineered equipment, need not lead to mass staff layoffs. In fact, it can boost your businesses operations while freeing up talent and human resources for business development, innovation and quality control and the expansion of operations.

Innovative Engineering Solutions 

The custom design and manufacturing of your equipment by highly qualified, skilled and innovative mechanical engineers can help you find innovative solutions to your production needs.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co.

For over 45 years Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. have been employing the highest quality experts in the field of mechanical engineering and custom equipment manufacturer. For more information about metal fabrication, machining or mechanical engineering, contact us today.

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A Guide to Metal Alloys and Their Uses

Metal alloys are metals that are developed through the mixing of base metals with other metals or new elements. They then take on specific properties that those base metals don’t have. These properties include more strength, durability, and flexibility. Specific alloys are created to include one or a combination of these qualities, while still retaining their own beneficial base qualities. Custom metal fabrication is a core component of the services offered by the top contract manufacturing companies in machining in Oshawa, Ontario.

The most common alloys are steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, brass, and bronze.

  • Steel: An Alloy of Iron and Carbon 

Steel is created by mixing iron with carbon. This increases the strength and durability of the base metal iron. It also reduces the weight of the metal. Lighter, stronger and more durable than iron, steel is ideal as a building material – for everything from appliances to skyscrapers.

  • Stainless Steel: An Alloy of Steel 

Stainless Steel is created by mixing steel with chromium, aluminum, and other elements to create scratch, rust and corrosion resistant forms of steel. Highly versatile, durable and good-looking, stainless steel is used for everything from industrial equipment to bespoke cutlery.

  • Aluminum Alloys

A variety of aluminum alloys can be created by mixing the base metal with an assortment of other metals. This makes it the most versatile of the base metals. These alloys are characterized by being both lightweight and highly durable. They can be used for an almost endless array of architectural and industrial applications.

  • Titanium: The ultimate Alloy 

As strong as steel, lightweight, flexible and highly resistant to corrosion, titanium is renowned for its superior tensile strength and durability. Industrial applications have spurred innovation, particularly in the aerospace industry. And, its shine, durability, and resistance to extreme temperatures and all environmental conditions also make it a popular alloy for everything from supercar features to jewelry to dental implants.

  • Brass: An Alloy of Copper and Zinc 

Brass is resistant to corrosion and adds exceptional life-span to any application, making it ideal for pipes, valves, nuts, bolts and various other hardware applications.

  • Bronze: A Copper Alloy That Doesn’t Oxidize 

Bronze is far heavier than steel. But, it is strong, infinitely durable and has a very low melting point – making it ideal for coins and turbines. It can ‘discolour’ on the surface but does not oxidize further the way copper does.

Some alloys are less costly than the base metals they are made of, but they are all less costly in the long run thanks to their strength, durability, flexibility and targeted suitability for their varied and ideal applications. They also drive versatility and innovation, making it possible to machine just about anything and meet any design, manufacturing and application requirement.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co.    

Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. has over 45 years of experience in the machining industry. As the number one source for machining tools, we specialize in custom metal fabrication, serving the industrial manufacturing needs for the oil and gas, mining, cement and steel sectors. For more information about metal fabrication, machining or mechanical engineering, contact us today.

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Metal fabrication

A Guide to Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals

As a company specializing in machining tools, more than one client has asked about the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals over the years. Broadly defined, non-ferrous metals do not contain iron while ferrous metals do.

Ferrous metals, such as cast iron, stainless steel and carbon steel, have magnetic properties which make them ideal for a variety of uses in vehicle engines. This type of metal is also renowned for its durability and strength, which is why it is used in the construction of everything from tall buildings and cars to rail lines. Some lightweight steels, such as nickel, titanium and chromium, are added to ferrous metals to strengthen the material and create what is known as alloy steels.

According to statista.com, ferrous metallurgy represents approximately 90% of worldwide production of metal, with steel being the ferrous alloy that is most used in transportation, construction and industry. Steel has very strong mechanical properties but it is also quite labour-intensive to cast well.

One consideration to keep in mind is that ferrous metals can rust more easily than non-ferrous metals due to the fact that they have higher carbon content. However, there are ferrous metals that are the exception to the rule, such as stainless steel for example.

Non-ferrous metals have been used since the dawn of time. These types of metals aren’t as prone to rust as ferrous metals because they don’t contain iron. Non-ferrous metals are commonly used in electrical applications, roofing and piping. Some examples of non-ferrous metals include tin, brass, zinc, gold, copper, aluminium, silver and lead.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. is a leading source for machining, and we know that placing an order for top quality metal fabrication goods for manufacturing companies is not as simple as filling in an order form. If you are looking for a production team that can work with you during all parts of the steel fabrication manufacturing process, then get in touch with our team in Oshawa Ontario, today.

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Steel fabrication

Go Green with Sustainable Steel

Many of our clients – as well as our client’s clients – are more concerned about the environment than ever before. The rise of the green movement and an increasing awareness of our carbon footprint mean that an increasing number of organizations are looking for sustainable building materials, production methods, machines and products.

Steel is an essential part of our economy. It is used in everything from kitchen magnets to vehicle engines, appliance manufacturing, architecture, railways, bridges and infrastructure. The steel industry as a whole has made huge strides in lowering its environmental impact as well. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the steel sector has achieved the highest overall reduction in emissions of any major industry, with the market being able to reduce its emissions by 47% from 1990 to 2005.

“Sustainable steel” can mean different things, depending on your location, industry and needs. One reason why designers and architects choose steel for their building designs is that of its versatility and durability. If a building material is able to last many years without needing to be replaced, then it is automatically considered a sustainable option. Many sectors are also recycling steel. Recycling of materials means that waste is being minimized and reused. This also contributes to its sustainability.

Galvanized steel poles are also being used to replace wood utility poles across North America. The reason for this is that the steel poles will have less of an impact on:

  1. The animal environment,
  2. Lower aerosol emissions, and
  3. Reduced hazardous waste.

In the transportation sector, steel is still used in many engines and in a variety of automotive components. Thanks to advances in the manufacturing sector, these components are more lightweight than ever before, which can lead to increased efficiency and lower fuel consumption in cars.

Are you looking for sustainable machining solutions? Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. strongly emphasizes client relationships as an integral part of our business model. Our staff will be happy to get to know you and your individual machining needs and will use that knowledge to make sure you get exactly what you want. Contact us for more information about our contract manufacturing company in Oshawa, Ontario today.

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Metal fabrication

Consider 5 Things Before Partnering With A Metal Fabrication Company

Metal fabrication is an expensive endeavour. When partnering with contract manufacturing companies, you need to be assured that the quality of work you receive is up to standard. Your company’s profits, operational expenses and even the health and safety of your employees depend on the quality of work you receive from your custom metal fabrication company. To this end, Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. has created this list which should aid you in choosing a metal fabrication company that gives you the best value for money for every job.

  1. The Capability Of The Company
    You need to know that the company you are outsourcing your job to is actually capable of doing it. Many metal fabrication companies will take on jobs they are unable to properly complete. This will lead to delays, unexpected expenses and ultimately a shoddy final product. At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., no matter how large or small the job, we have the equipment and experience to take it on and to complete it to specifications.
  2. Customer Service
    Customer service is an all-important make or breaks factor for any company. The company’s ability to understand and deliver on the job assigned to them is what results in a happy, satisfied customer.
  3. Price
    When setting out on any business endeavour, the price is a very important factor. Every business seeks to minimize costs. Caution is advised when looking at quotes, however, as the age-old adage often rings true: “If it sounds too good to be true, it is”. Ensure that you get what you pay for without compromising on quality.
  4. Experience
    A company that has been doing steel fabrication and mechanical engineering for decades will likely be better at it than a new startup – with age comes experience. Experience means they have dealt with almost all the processing problems that may arise and know how to handle them. This untimely results in a more cost-efficient, on-schedule and better quality final product.
  5. Location
    Having a company close to your place of operation to handle your metal fabrication makes sense. Steel is heavy and bulky, meaning it costs a lot to transport. Reducing transportation costs is another cut in expense that will aid your business.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. 

With over 45 years in the business, Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. has the capability and experience to ensure you receive the best price and service in Oshawa, Ontario. For more information about metal fabrication, machining or mechanical engineering, contact us today.

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Mechanical engineering

5 Ways Our Mechanical Engineers Add Value to Your Solutions

Mechanical Engineering is one of the hardest disciplines that one can study. The long hours, large workload and difficult subjects act like a crucible which produces fantastic problem solvers. Our mechanical engineers don’t just do stress calculations; they solve problems creatively and organically. Here are 5 ways that mechanical engineering adds value to a custom metal fabrication problem in Oshawa, Ontario:

  1. Manufacturing Is Kept In Mind
    When you commission a steel fabrication job from us; we understand that that steel is part of a larger project. With a strong background in mechanical engineering, our experts ask the right questions and get the right knowledge to tailor this custom metal fabrication job to suit your needs. The larger scale and the finished product are always kept in mind to ensure easy and functional assembly.
  2. Unparalleled Knowledge
    Engineers have a ‘cradle to grave’ understanding of projects. Their knowledge of the refining, forging and manufacturing processes in steel manufacturing means that they have encountered problems all along the line before, and know how to solve them.
  3. Marriage of Needs to Services
    When you come to us with a custom job, there is a process that needs to happen from the steel stock we have to the finished item you need. Mechanical engineers “marry” our services to the solutions you need, and create a process that gives you the finished product you have been looking for.
  4. Professionalism
    Mechanical Engineering is the discipline of professionals. With mechanical engineers on our team, you can be assured that every item is to the correct spec. No corners have been cut and no cost-saving measures have compromised the integrity of your item. Every process will be communicated to you and the final piece will perform as intended.
  5. Life Long Learning
    Mechanical engineers keep up to date on the technological and scientific improvements of the industry, meaning every process we employ is state of the art. No outdated and inefficient operations will be allowed to persist.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. 

For over 45 years Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. has been employing the highest quality experts in the field of mechanical engineering. No matter how large or the small the job, we can get it done. For more information about metal fabrication, machining or mechanical engineering, contact us today.

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Custom metal fabrication

Custom Metal Fabrication Applications in the Oil and Gas Industry

Oil and gas is the cornerstone of modern civilization. Mankind’s ability to generate power, create electricity and fuel our lifestyle stems in no small part from the success of our mining and refining endeavours. Such specialized industries benefit greatly from custom metal fabrication. Contract manufacturing companies, like Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., enable these marvels of mechanical engineering to function at peak efficiency. Here in Oshawa, Ontario, steel fabrication provides a vital role in the further development of these oil and gas mining and refining plants. But what exactly is the role of custom metal fabrication in the industry?

  1. Infrastructure
    Oil and gas mining and refining is a complex process and thus requires a large infrastructure to support it. This includes pipes, holding tanks, work areas structural supports and sometimes even the housing of a workforce. Custom metal fabrication makes all of this a reality.
  2. Equipment
    The backbone of any mechanical engineering endeavour is the ability to transfer ideas and drawings into reality. To that end, one needs specialized equipment. And if you need specialized equipment, you need custom metal fabrication.

Almost all equipment in the oil and gas industry is made from structural steel, and Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. specialize in structural steel fabrication. Whether you need pipes, supports mounts or pressure vessels, no job is too large or too small. At Rider Tool we also have the ability to fabricate oil and gas separators which are vital in the refining process.

  1. Safety
    Heavy industry is dangerous. Large machinery, tough working conditions and volatile materials all combine to create a hazardous working environment. As such, a major priority is the mitigation of risk. Surprisingly enough, custom metal fabrication can assist in that. When developing infrastructure and machinery, certain safety factors like handrails, for non-slip and safety cover purposes, can be designed into the plans to ensure a safer working environment.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. 

For over 45 years, Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. has been servicing the oil and gas industry. This has given us the experience and expertise to take on any custom metal fabrication and give you the best possible quality in return. For more information about metal fabrication, machining or mechanical engineering, contact us today.

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Metal fabrication

Metal Fabrication Insights: How Laser Cutting Works

Laser cutting is an extremely efficient and accurate method of custom steel manufacture.  While glorified in the media, lasers and laser cutting is actually an extremely scientific and methodical industrial procedure used to minimise man-hours and maximize quality.

Laser cutting is used right here in Ontario in both steel fabrication and custom metal fabrication. At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we are professionals at using laser cutting to ensure our metal fabrication is perfect. As such we have written a short informative guide to how laser cutting works:

Laser Cutting 

What is a laser? A laser is a highly focused beam of light. It is comprised of a single wavelength (or colour). “LASER” is actually an acronym which stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation”.

In metal fabrication plants, the laser cutters in use are Infra-Red lasers, making them invisible to the human eye. These lasers are guided in the machine by any number of mirrors, before being focused through a specially designed focusing lens. The beam is originally only ¾ of an inch wide, but the focusing lens reduces it even further to a pinpoint size. This has the exact same effect as focussing sunlight through a magnifying glass – only hundreds of times more powerful.

The ‘focal point’ of the laser is the point at which the laser beam is most narrowed and most intense. This point is aimed at the cutting surface, producing heat that is intense enough to instantly melt and in some cases, vaporise the work material instantly.

This laser head is controlled by a CNC machine, ensuring that every cut is perfect and no human lives are placed in unnecessary danger.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. 

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. is a machinist company that has been in the business for over 45 years. We specialize in manufacturing for the oil, steel, cement and mining industries, but we are able to do any kind of metal fabrication. For more information about metal fabrication, machining or mechanical engineering, contact us today.

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Custom metal fabrication

Who Needs Custom Metal Fabrication Services In Oshawa?

In this high-tech age of supersonic aircraft and 70 story skyscrapers, raw materials like sheet metal are widely used in the manufacturing industry. Custom metal fabrication is at an all-time high, and with a slew of contract manufacturing companies out there all willing to take on jobs, you need to know your assigned work is safe in experienced hands. Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. have been in the custom metal fabrication industry for close to 50 years.  We get the job done right, the first time.

Why Do You Need Metal Fabrication? 

Mechanical Engineering goes hand-in-hand with heavy industry. Whether you are in need of steel fabrication, or aluminium stamping, we have the expertise and equipment to get the job done. While we are most known for our work with oil and gas refining and mining, we can fabricate and machine materials pertaining to a variety of industries including (but not exclusive to):

  • Railway construction
  • Aircraft and Aerospace construction
  • Restaurant, coffee shop and catering use
  • Cars, trucks and ships
  • Pharmaceutical and Chemical creation and storage
  • Geysers, boilers and other heating equipment

Whether your project is large or small, our experts and artisans will handle it in a professional and efficient manner. We fabricate from the raw material to the finished product, making us a one-stop shop and saving you money on outsourcing your product to various contractors for every respective stage of the process.

Due to the complete process being design, fabrication, machining and finishing in-house, we have the unique ability to create modular designs. This allows the work time to be reduced as each component can be created and sent to you for use or installation immediately, and it reduces shipping or trucking costs as smaller parts are cheaper and easier to ship and assemble on site.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. 

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. has been in the custom metal fabrication industry since its inception, almost half a century ago. We have been reliably serving the Ontario area with carbon steel, alloy steel and aluminium for 50 years. This track record tells a story about our products and service quality. For more information about steel fabrication, machining or mechanical engineering, contact us today.

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