Rider Tool Blog

Custom metal fabrication

3 Methods for Custom metal fabrication

When it comes to custom metal fabrication and welding stainless steel, there are three main methods that promise optimal results. Below, we take a look at each of these methods and highlight their benefits as well as when they should be used.

Resistance Welding 

Resistance welding is one of the most common methods of welding used in custom metal fabrication, steel fabrication and mechanical engineering in general. It uses a low voltage to operate, and is an efficient welding method that can be completed with the simple push of a button. Resistance welding can be entirely automated and is therefore often considered to be the most cost-effective welding method. It is also known to produce fewer harmful fumes, making it the most eco-friendly choice too. 

MIG Welding 

MIG welding is also known as Metal Inert Gas welding. Its main advantage is that it is one of the fastest welding methods out of the three. And, therefore, it is ideal for use when welding thicker stainless steel. It also the welding method that is known for producing the least amount of splatter. 

TIG Welding 

When it comes to accuracy, you cannot go wrong with TIG welding, also known as Tungsten Inert Gas welding. It is the go-to welding method for thinner stainless steel and when minimal clean-up is required.  TIG also ensures minimal electrode wear and provides a concentrated heat source which results in a stable arc and extra precision control. 

As you can see, the three different methods of welding all have their own unique benefits and applications. Because of this, it is usually best to rely on contract manufacturing companies to decide on the best method for your project when it comes to custom metal fabrication. 

For more information about the welding and custom metal fabrication process in general, do not hesitate to get in touch with the team at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. 

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steel fabrication

Differences between Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals

When it comes to mechanical engineering and steel fabrication, one of the most commonly asked questions from clients are ‘what is the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals?’ The experts at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co., one of the most trusted contract manufacturing companies in Ontario, provide an explanation below. 

Ferrous Metals 

The main difference between ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals is the fact that ferrous metals contain iron and non-ferrous metals do not. Because of this, each type of metal has a number of specific applications to which they are better suited. Many ferrous metals, for example, provide superior durability and tensile strength, with the most common ferrous metals being alloy steel, carbon steel, cast iron and wrought iron. Ferrous metals are also magnetic. 

They are most commonly used in the construction industry and are also employed in the manufacture of things like cars, railroad tracks and more. The only down-side to ferrous metals is that they are quite vulnerable to corrosion due to their high carbon content (with the exception of stainless steel and wrought iron which are both rust-resistant). 

Non-Ferrous Metals

Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron and are usually corrosion resistant and more malleable than ferrous metals. Gold, silver, tin, aluminum, copper, lead and zinc are all non-ferrous metals. 

Non-ferrous metals are not magnetic and are often employed in the manufacture of electronics and wiring because of this. These types of metals are also often used to produce things like gutters, roofing, signage and liquid pipes. 

For more information about the different types of metals used by contract manufacturing companies, do not hesitate to get in touch with Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. 

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metal coating

A Guide to Powder Coating and Wet Coating in Metal Fabrication

It is important to coat metals in order to make them durable. The coating reduces the chances of rusting and the day-to-day wear-and-tear of the metals. Most metal fabrication companies use either powder or wet coating for metals.

Metal Coating and the Environment

Metal coating practices have now become more-friendly to the environment than before. Today, the chemicals used in wet coating by either contract manufacturing companies or the manufacturing companies are fast drying – hence less pollution. Emissions from powder coating are not as high and can also be recycled and this makes them very friendly to the environment right here in Oshawa, Ontario.

The Difference between Powder and Wet Coating

Coating generally means painting. 

Wet Coating

In wet coating, liquid paint is applied on the metal by the use of a pressurized vessel or a spray gun. This coating is recommended for metals that cannot undergo any form of heating or metals that require a specific colour. 

Powder Coating

Powder coating, on the other hand, refers to the electrostatic application of dry powder on the metal. Unlike wet coating, powder coating does not require a carrier. Once the powder has been applied to the metals, they are baked in an oven at 450 degrees. The heat transforms the powder into a liquid and then a solid form resulting in a thick and solid coating that is much more durable than wet coating.

For more information about metal fabrication and coating in Ontario, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.

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steel silo

Silos and Bins: Steel vs. Concrete

Just a few of the many ways in which one can store coal, silage, wood chips, grains and many other items is by making use of bins and silos. These two methods of storage are the most common. In as much as both of these are used for storage, they are also quite different.

Differences between Steel and Concrete 

Here is what makes the two different: 

Design: 

Silos and bins that are manufactured from steel have higher storage capacity and better aeration than those made from concrete. Also, when constructed wide and short, their resilience to outside temperatures is improved. When it comes to the foundation of the silos, concrete structures require a compact one due to its weight, and this makes them more expensive to construct. The best thing about steel is that you can have a custom metal fabrication design.

Cost: 

Constructing a concrete silo is quite different when compared to constructing a steel one. It requires more labour and time, and this translates to a higher cost of construction. Steel silos, on the other hand, can be fabricated and constructed in a shorter time. Steel fabrication is today a growing trend in storage building.

Construction: 

Concrete structures must be built on site while steel can be fabricated in a factory. This makes constructing a steel bin or silo a little easier than a concrete one. While constructing, it is important to consider factors like the weather and convenience. Metal fabrication is quite common in Oshawa, Ontario today.

For more information about steel fabrication in Ontario, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.

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pressure vessel

When Is the Right Time to Replace a Pressure Vessel?

Pressure vessels are essential to companies in all industries. They need to be kept up to date and up to code for both a company’s optimal operations and its employees’ safety. However, how do we know when a pressure vessel has run its course? We have the answers to your pressure vessel and metal fabrication questions!

Signs That You Need to Replace Your Pressure Vessel:

When a pressure vessel is leaking, its bladder has failed or it has become waterlogged, you may notice some issues which may include the following:

    • Reduced water pressure, especially at fixtures on the second floor
    • Unstable water pressure as the pump cycles on and off
    • A pump that runs less than a minute in order to pressurize the tank
    • A vessel that cycles on and off frequently
    • A vessel that remains running
    • Water leaks at the pressure vessel
    • Visible corrosion on the exterior of the vessel
    • Excessive air in the plumbing system as faucets and fixtures are used
    • Low pressure at the pressure gauge

What to Do If Your Pressure Vessel Needs to be Replaced:

If you notice any of these problems with your steel fabrication and pressure vessel, it may need to be replaced. Have a professional inspect it as soon as possible to avoid causing damage to the pump or premature failure. It can be expensive to replace, especially submersible models, so it’s important that you get it fixed or replace it before more damage is done and the extra cost is incurred.

Questions to Ask a Professional When Replacing Your Pressure Vessel:

    • Was it designed, custom fabricated and constructed according to the ASME Code or other applicable code? Does the vessel code label or stamp prove this?
    • Is the operating pressure and size of the vessel known and clearly displayed?
    • Is the vessel inspected periodically? What are the criteria for inspection frequency? When was it last inspected externally? When was it last inspected internally?
    • Did the inspection discover thinning of walls due to corrosion, holes, leaks, stress corrosion cracking, embrittlement or any other defects?
    • Have the pressure relieving devices been tested regularly? When was the last time?
    • If the vessel was repaired, did the changes in operating conditions alter relief device settings?

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. for Metal Fabrication

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. Thanks to our years of experience serving a varied clientele, we have the expertise to optimize and fully implement the best solutions for the diverse needs of all kinds of manufacturing companies. Whatever your facility needs, our team can make it happen.

For more information on replacing pressure vessels for custom metal fabrication and steel fabrication,  contact us today.

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