Rider Tool Blog

custom metal fabrication

Tolerance: A Critical Factor in Custom Metal Fabrication

There are industry standards for the maximum allowable distortion, which is known as tolerance, for each type of alloy used in standard and custom aluminum extrusion. Tolerances are crucial to the mechanical engineering manufacturing process as they will not only determine how well a part will fit in final production, but also as how stable the final product will be. Tolerances can refer to mechanical fit, fit up (i.e. proper alignment of holes for assembly), deviations from straightness or accuracy of assembly. It is the most important consideration for decision makers in their custom metal fabrication. Below, we take a look at the importance of tolerance in custom metal fabrication.

Why Is Tolerance Important in Custom Metal Fabrication?

  • Risk Management

Checking the correct tolerances is some of risk management’s most important duties. A well-trained risk management team will not only mitigate the risk associated with poor tolerances but will also dramatically reduce the number of faulty parts in a production cycle. Risk management gives metal fabricators the ability to reflect on their processes and assess the way in which improvements can be made. Risk management can run through parts faster and be more effective if tolerances are optimized.

  • Choosing the Right Fit for Optimization

We work with nominal thicknesses in custom fabrication, so it is important to know the thickness tolerance on the material you choose in order to know if the final product will be suitable for your application. It is important when working with sheet metal that you factor in finish tolerances. If you add a finish such as powder-coat, you add more thickness, and this should be factored into your design at the beginning.

  • Precision

The accuracy of the machinery that processes raw materials contributes to what is practical in terms of precision in sheet metal. Manufacturing tolerances are limited by the physics of rolling hot metal to create sheet stock. Tolerances for precision work such as laser cutting, machining and forming will have little room for error. More precision requires greater consistency in the tooling setup for blanking and bending of the sheet metal parts. It is important to use a correct guideline with regard to tolerances to ensure the correct precision is determined.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. for Your Custom Metal Fabrication

We started out in the steel industry, so it should come as no surprise to learn that our expertise and experience enable us to fabricate alloy steel, carbon steel and even aluminum structures based on our clients’ specifications. Furthermore, while we are not interested in providing our services as a metal fabricator when it comes to brass and bronze, we are more than capable of machining said materials into the desired size and shape so as to make the metal fabrication process that much simpler for interested individuals.

For more information on tolerance for custom metal fabrication, contact us today.

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galvanised steel

These are The Benefits of Galvanized Steel

Are you thinking of investing in galvanized steel? However, you are unsure about whether it is the best choice? Corrosion is one of the biggest expenses in the construction industry. Investing in metal fabrication that includes galvanization can help to effectively prevent the corrosion of steel. Here are some of the benefits of galvanized steel:

Will Save You a Lot of Money

Steel fabrication involving galvanization is comparatively cheaper than applying protective paints or using stainless steel. In addition, galvanized steel requires little to no maintenance. You will not only save on the initial costs of the project but also in the long run.

Is Environmentally Sustainable

Galvanization involves the application of a zinc coating on the steel. Zinc is a naturally occurring element. It naturally occurs in the soil. The process does not involve the use of solvents and the products can be completely recycled. All these factors make galvanized steel an environmentally friendly option.

Is Tough

The galvanization process increases the strength of the steel. It also makes it more resistant to abrasions, scratches and heat.

Is Long Lasting

The steel will withstand the test of time. Your project will last for a long time to come. Galvanized steel will also retain its glow even after 100 years without succumbing to corrosion.

Requires Little Maintenance

Once you’ve installed the steel you won’t have to worry about maintenance for a long time. You can rest assured that your structure will withstand exposure to the elements even without maintenance.

If you’re looking for high-quality galvanized steel you can rely on the metal fabrication team at Rider Tool Manufacturing Co. For more information, contact us today.

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steel fabrication

Steel Fabrication and Steel Products: Why Buy American Made?

Steel is the way to go if you’re looking for products that will provide strength and resilience in the long term. Whether it is tanks, silos, duct work, water pipes or any other steel products you require, you’re probably looking for the best source of steel products. While steel fabrication is performed by numerous companies around the world, there are many benefits to choosing a local fabricator.  Here are some of the advantages of buying from a domestic manufacturer:

It’s Cheaper

Buying from a locally based manufacturer means lower shipping costs. Shipping from a manufacturer in another country can be very costly. You will also not be subject to customs duties and other taxes charged on products that are imported.

You’re Creating Employment

Many steel contract manufacturing companies have closed down over the years as a result of losing business to international companies. This has put many mechanical engineering professionals, machinists, and welders out of work. Other related industries such as truckers and tool making have also suffered the consequences of this closure.

Buying local products is good for the economy. You will be putting Americans back to work and creating job opportunities.

It’s Easier Logistically

You can avoid many logistic challenges by sticking to a local supplier. You won’t have to worry about finding an overseas warehouse or paying demurrage. You can also get your products delivered much sooner.

Buy Local

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. is a local machinist with over 45 years of experience in the industry. We’re the best source for quality steel products. For more information contact us today.

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large diameter pipes

Corrosion In Large Diameter Pipes – What You Need To Know

One of the most prominent problems relating to large diameter pipes? Corrosion! Not only does corrosion limit the functionality of these types of pipes, but it can also result in safety concerns, especially if left unchecked for long periods of time. Here is everything that you need to know about metal fabrication, large diameter pipes and corrosion, as well as how to prevent it and ensure improved longevity going forward.

 

  • What Are Large Diameter Pipes Used For? 

 

Large diameter pipes have many different uses and can be found in a variety of different industries. Water treatment plants are the most common places in which you’ll find large diameter pipes, although they are also regularly seen in the energy industry and other utilities. Generally, this type of piping is expensive to purchase and install, so any problems that present themselves can lead to massive financial hardship. This is particularly true when it comes to corrosion as it is usually impossible to repair, leaving experts with only the option of replacing the piping in its entirety.

 

  • Protecting Large Diameter Pipes

 

While corrosion is a big concern when it comes to metal fabrication and large diameter pipes, it can be effectively prevented with the help of experienced mechanical engineering teams. Metal fabrication specialists and contract manufacturing companies know all too well that the secret to protecting large diameter pipes from corrosion and rust lies in using the right treatments, coatings and alloys to prevent any reaction between water, oxygen and the pipe’s metal components. Luckily, the Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. can assist with this.

For more information about custom metal fabrication and large diameter pipes, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team.

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mechanical engineering

A Guide To Non-destructive Testing (NDT)

Here at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co, we specialize in mechanical engineering, custom metal fabrication and non-destructive testing, also commonly referred to as NDT. This type of testing is essentially responsible for maintaining a uniform level of quality, as well as product reliability when it comes to specific metals. There are many different types of non-destructive testing and all of these tests can be conducted on various materials without damaging them or rendering them unserviceable.  

Types of Non-Destructive Testing

At Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co, we focus our attention on nine different types of non-destructive testing when it comes to mechanical engineering. These tests include the following:

  • The Brinell Hardness Test:

This test determines the hardness of aluminum, iron and steel forgings and castings.

  • The Charpy Impact Test:

This test can determine how much energy is absorbed by a material during fracture.

  • The Dye And Liquid Penetrate Test:

This test is conducted only on non-porous materials and can detect surface faults and defects.

  • The Dry-Film Thickness Test:

Once coating layers have been applied to materials and have subsequently dried, the dry-film thickness test can measure the exact level of thickness and, therefore, the potential longevity, of these coatings.

  • Hydro / Pressure tests:

In these tests, water is used to determine whether a pipe or vessel is leaking or damaged.

  • Radiography:

This mode of testing can aid in flagging hidden flaws in an array of different types of materials with the help of penetrating short wavelength electromagnetic radiation.

Other non-destructive testing methods that we specialize in include the following:

  • Magnetic particle testing,
  • Ultrasonic testing, and
  • Vacuum testing, to name a few.

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

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