Rider Tool Blog

cad model

The Importance of CAD Models for Contract Manufacturing Companies

As with most industries, the metal fabrication industry is changing along with the help of technology. Contract manufacturing companies now have more advanced technology to help with the metal fabrication process. We recently wrote an article about how AI is set to impact the custom metal fabrication industry. However, AI isn’t the only technological wave affecting the industry. CAD models are not only used in the industry today, but they are absolutely crucial for metal fabrication projects.

What Are CAD Models?

CAD models are two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) models created using computer software and used in the initial visualization stage of a metal fabrication project.

Why Are CAD Models Essential?

CAD models are essential tools for metal fabrication projects. They allow contract manufacturing companies to create detailed and precisely crafted metal parts. parts. Before CAD models existed, we had to use trial-and-error to cut metal parts to the right dimensions. Thanks to CAD models, we can use advanced technology to create models of metal parts prior to them being fabricated. This saves both us and our clients valuable time and money when completing metal fabrication projects.

Some additional benefits of using CAD models include:

  • Quality check
  • Less metal waste
  • More accurate metal part reproduction

Are you interested in learning more about how you can use CAD models for your metal fabrication process? Do you have any other questions for contract manufacturing companies? At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we use only the most advanced and effective technology for metal fabrication projects. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you with your metal fabrication needs.

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AI

How AI Is Set to Impact the Custom Metal Fabrication Industry

Artificial intelligence has been the new buzzword for many manufacturing industries. And, the custom metal fabrication industry has not been left untouched by this looming revolution. Here’s a look at some ways in which AI might change metal fabrication in the near future:

AI’s Impact on the Custom Metal Fabrication Industry

  • Production

When looking at how AI might change an industry, the largest factor to take into consideration might be production. Machines like robots and computers differ from their human counterparts because they don’t get tired, sick or bored. Also, they don’t need as much time off as we do. This means that they can work longer and more accurately than humans, which increases the output of any given process and drives down production cost and delivery times.

However, machines aren’t coming for all human jobs, just yet. Humans still outperform machines in tasks that require complex thinking processes. Although AI will allow a machine signal when maintenance is required, for the foreseeable future, people will still be performing repairs and maintenance on machines, and we’ll still be designing parts and processes to achieve specific goals. 

As AI technology develops, simple tasks may be taken over by machines, leaving humans to perform complex tasks that require flexibility and cognitive processes,  which is something machines do not yet possess. 

  • Safety

As global awareness and compliance with health and safety regulations increase, manufacturing industries are becoming safer for human workers. Where the handling of dangerous chemicals and tools involved, as well as precision in tasks required, machines can eliminate a lot of the risk from the environment. Machines are more accurate, they can handle hazardous environments, and they can be replaced when a malfunction occurs.

AI will contribute greatly to the increased safety for workers not only by performing simple but hazardous activities, but also by anticipating and warning human controllers when a safety hazard might present itself.  

  • Competition

Safer environments and increased production will be in the grasp of smaller manufacturers, giving them a more level playing field thanks to AI. Instead of massive labour forces needed in mechanical engineering and manufacturing companies, AI can take over the tasks that humans traditionally needed to fulfill, bringing down costs and creating growth opportunities. Smaller businesses will be able to use AI to “teach” machines to perform tasks that will take humans much longer to master. 

By allowing small businesses to expand without the traditional overhead costs, there will be more opportunities for businesses to compete in the manufacturing sector, which will improve the quality and service for the industry at large. 

At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we strive to incorporate the latest technological advances in our processes to the advantage of our clients. For cutting edge custom metal fabrication, contact us today. 

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welding

How to weld aluminium

A lightweight, thin metal, aluminium is commonly used in welding workshops. Welding aluminium needs to be done at low temperatures. A reactive material, this metal forms an oxide layer when exposed which could be tricky as this results in porous welds. 

Welding any material can be a challenging process, especially lightweight materials. This requires the utmost precision to ensure a strong bond. In order to successfully weld aluminium, you need to assemble the right tools, exercise caution and patience and, gain experience. 

Assemble your tools

You will need:

  • A Tungsten Inert Gas welder with AC capability (not only DC). This type of welder uses a tungsten electrode and an inert gas to shield the welding area. 
  • An aluminium filler rod. This tool is needed to bond the two pieces. Make sure that the rod is free of rust or dirt as this may lead to a weaker weld.
  • A canister of argon gas. The gas’s purpose in the welding process is to shield.
  • Protective clothing. Opt for a 100% cotton long sleeve shirt and long pants with no cuffs. 
  • Use safety equipment. You’ll need a heavy welding helmet, a thick pair of gloves and a respirator. 

Get your workspace ready

  • Clean away the aluminium oxide. Aluminium forms a thin coat of aluminium oxide on its exterior over time. This melts at a much higher temperature. You’ll need to do this mechanically by using a wire-brush, a grinder or filing away the oxides.  
  • Clean the filler rod. Use an abrasive cleaning pad with acetone to ensure the rod is free from contaminants. 
  • Clamp your workpieces together as tightly as possible
  • Preheat the aluminium workpiece. You can heat your workpiece by placing it directly into an oven or by using a propane torch. Benchmark a temperature between 300 degrees Fahrenheit and 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Make sure that your workspace is ventilated and a cool environment.

  • Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand. 

Get welding!

  • Set your welder’s amperage. Aim for 1 amp per 0.001 inch of your workspace’s thickness. It is recommended to set the welder’s amperage to a higher notch than you expect to need and then to tone the current back down with your foot pedal. 
  • Place your tools and workspace into position. Extend the tungsten electrode by no more than diameter of your torch’s nozzle. Press the button on the torch and use the foot pedal.
  • Create the puddle. Begin melting the workpiece until you create an adequately sized puddle no wider than the diameter of your filler. Add the filler rod to fill in the joint and then move onto the next portion of the weld. Complete this process until the weld is complete. 

For more information on welding, contact us today! 

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custom metal fabrication

5 misconceptions about custom metal fabrication

A new on-demand metalworking project can be intimidating in many ways. From finding a partner who understands your unique project’s requirements to budget, time and quality restraints, it is important to separate the facts from fiction and to be able to identify the following five misconceptions when it comes to custom metal fabrication

  • Mechanical engineering isn’t necessary 

A design-engineering collaboration is the first essential building block for a successful custom metal fabrication project. Before a design heads into fabrication, you need to ensure that the correct pieces are in place to translate the metal design into the various components. Following this, the visualization process can begin. 

A custom steel product project often begins in the design process, moves onto the manufacturing design process, which is followed by product design, engineering, prototyping and lastly, manufacturing. 

Industry leaders often advise using mechanical engineers in the metal fabrication process. 

  • Their products must be as good as their professional presentations

A sophisticated, professional PowerPoint presentation pitch does not represent a quality custom metal fabrication project. Do your research; cross-check with multiple references, meet with the operations team and request a site tour – take note of the condition of the facility’s equipment. 

  • The lowest bid will be the more cost-effective option

The cost of manufacturing the project is one of the major factors you’ll always need to consider. You need to view the cost of the entire value chain in order to avoid unexpected incurring costs when budgeting solely on the supplier’s quote. You need to go through each quote with a fine-tooth comb; some metal fabrication companies may offer a low manufacturing quote but down the line, incorporate unexpected fees and charges. 

  • Galvanization is an expensive option

With recent advances in galvanization, it has become an increasingly popular (and affordable) component of custom metal fabrication. This process ensures that every area of the steel is coated, and the final product requires very little maintenance, saving money in the long run. 

Before commencing with the galvanization, your supplier should inform you of the potential cost issues, the strain-age embrittlement, working parts with undue friction or, an insufficient zinc coating. 

  • Professional metal fabricators do not need to institute regular product inspections 

You need to find a supplier who offers quality control experts. Would they be willing to work with third-party inspectors? It makes more sense to maintain regular quality control over time than to be faced with massive repair job down the line. 

Partner with Rider Tool and Manufacturing Company and allow us to steer you through your custom metal fabrication process to reach your end goal. Contact us today for more information. 

 

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quality control metal fabrication

5 Benefits of Quality Control in Metal Fabrication

Quality control is a non-negotiable element in all manufacturing processes. We can’t speak for other industries, but as a business in the field of metal fabrication, we understand the particular importance of quality control. From our point of view, quality control brings the following five primary benefits, which creates a win-win situation for us and all our clients and their stakeholders.

First and Foremost – Safety!

The main outcome of excellent quality control is increased safety – both in the manufacturing process and the final product itself. If our workmanship is good, and if the materials are impeccable, resulting in a final product that is made to exacting standards, it will translate into many years of safe use for the customer.

Quality control over the fabrication and installation processes also secures the safety of our engineers, technicians and operators, as well as our clients.

Ensuring Strength and Good Functionality

The metal industry has more variables than many may believe. Steel is never just steel; there are many varieties of different alloy compositions, strengths and qualities. Our quality control standards begin at the selection of materials, guiding our acquisition of only the best steel from trusted suppliers. This means high quality and strength in the end product.

Quality control also dictates the process of building a particular piece of equipment commissioned by the client. We need to ensure that it is made to exact specifications and that the finished tool will do exactly what is required both effectively and efficiently. This involves a series of careful checks, inspections and tests throughout the job’s duration.

Consistency

It doesn’t do us or our clients any good to do one excellent job followed by others that are mediocre or poor, or simply of differing quality. Materials and processes must be standardized to ensure that everyone benefits from exactly the same high level of workmanship and materials, regardless of the specifics of the job. A steady quality control protocol ensures this ongoing consistency.

Repeat Business and Good Customer Relationships

It’s simple: satisfied customers will keep coming back and/or they will recommend you to others. The more consistently satisfactory work you deliver, the more likely you are to bring those clients back. The more you work with them, the more familiar you will become with their needs, and the more able you will be to meet them.  

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Quality control leads to the production of well-made products that will operate effectively for years to come, requiring fewer repairs and maintenance. During the fabrication process, it is worth taking the time and care to smooth out any wrinkles, so as to ensure that you won’t have to patch up any faults later.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. takes quality control very seriously. Are you looking for quality, custom-made, fabricated metal products? Contact us and see what we can do for you.

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