fabricated industrial equipment

How to Achieve a Successful Fabrication Field Installation

The onsite installation of fabricated industrial equipment is a service that is in considerable demand among our clients. It has tremendous benefits for the client because it enables the building and installation of their equipment by a single service provider, cutting out any need for a long chain of contractors that could potentially break down at the weakest link.

Because field installation is such a complex process, it requires a few key elements to work in tandem to make it successful.

Expertise

First off, not to put too fine a point on it, you need people who know what they’re doing. From the very beginning, even as the various components are being planned, you need an expert team that understands the materials involved, the client’s needs, the processes required to fill the brief, the logistics necessary to move the components to site and what is needed to assemble and install the end product, as efficiently as possible.

Quality Control

As important as expertise is an absolutely rock solid quality control protocol. The entire value chain, including labour, planning, parts, materials, transport and installation, must be monitored under a unifying, end-to-end quality control procedure. This ensures that each and every stage of the process is up to standard in its own right, and it also maintains consistent quality throughout the job as a whole. This is vital when working on a project with any number of variables, becoming all the more important as complexity increases.

Clear Communication

As with any value chain, field installation requires clear and unmistakable communications between all role players, both internally and between the client and service provider.

Logistical Planning

The way a job is carried out depends not only on the specifics of the job itself, but also on the distances between the fabricator’s premises and the installation site, the number, size and weight of the components involved as well as the type of transport needed. The fabricator may have to set a limit on the distances they are willing to travel to do the installation. It may be necessary, for example, to serve clients only within a 500-mile radius. Anything beyond the designated limit could make the costs in outlay, transport and manpower unfeasible.

Keeping it Simple

Simplicity is the key to handling complexity. Whatever steps can be eliminated without adversely affecting the outcome should be bridged or dispensed with. This is why Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. provides an end-to-end fabrication and field installation service that cuts out any intermediate steps and players. By cutting down on the variables, we provide a more streamlined service that makes the client’s life easier.

Contact us to discuss your equipment manufacture and installation requirements.

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Custom Metal Fabrication and Welding for the Food Service.

Custom metal fabrication and welding for the food service industry are about more than just boosting convenience, it is also about ensuring maximum food safety and quality. Here at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co., we specialize in creating products for the food service industry, including industrial ovens, food preparation surfaces and more. Basically, our expertise and experience enable us to fabricate alloy steel, carbon steel and even aluminum structures based on our clients’ specifications.

We Understand Food Service Industry Regulations

There are a number of regulations that contract manufacturing companies need to be well aware of when it comes to mechanical engineering, steel fabrication and custom metal fabrication for the food service industry. Here at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co., we understand that, for example, all food preparation surfaces need to be completely smooth and resistant to corrosion. If the former is not ensured, and the surface is full of grooves or craters, there is a much higher risk of bacteria growth and food contamination. 

Luckily, Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. is one of the contract manufacturing companies in Canada best known for its sanitary welding and ability to tailor all metal and steel fabrication to each clients’ requirements and expectations. Our welders go the extra mile to ensure that any unevenness of food preparation surfaces is minimized or completely eliminated. Our smooth, sanitary welding helps to facilitate easier, more efficient cleaning, as well as to prevent food particles from getting trapped and leading to a decrease in food safety.

For more information about custom metal fabrication and welding for the food service industry at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. be sure to contact us today.

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Metal Fabrication: Safety Protocols Boost ROI

The act of custom metal fabrication involves a number of safety concerns, especially if the right safety precautions are not taken. Did you know that not only will elaborate safety protocols help to protect your employees, but that they are also known to boost ROI? It is true! And, here is why.

• It Improves Productivity

Ultimately, when an employee feels safe, he or she is likely to be in a better mood and, as a result, work more efficiently. This leads to an improvement in productivity which, in turn, boosts metal fabrication return on investment. Furthermore, most safety protocols call for better ‘housekeeping’ and cleanliness. This means that employees are less likely to have to spend time cleaning up before performing a task which, once again, improves productivity.

• It Bolsters Your Metal and Steel Fabrication Company’s Reputation

Your stringent safety protocols are likely to get people talking and this will definitely give your company’s reputation a boost in the eyes of both your employees, potential employees and your customers. The end result is an improved ROI.

• What to Include in Custom Metal Fabrication Safety Protocols? 

Along with regulation safety rules and training, it is also of the utmost importance to educate your workforce to ensure and enforce maximum workplace safety. For example, your employees must know when and how to report potentially dangerous situations, as well as to make absolutely certain that all of their protective gear is in good condition before performing a task. It is always worthwhile to host regular workplace safety training sessions and workshops to re-familiarize employees with these many life-saving details and processes. 

Here at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co., we take our custom metal fabrication and steel fabrication safety protocols very seriously indeed. For more information about our services, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

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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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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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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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