metal fabrication

Why Avoid the Cheapest Metal Fabrication Quote

Have you ever heard the saying, “You get what you pay for”? When it comes to metal fabrication, it definitely rings true. Low cost isn’t usually associated with high quality. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t affordable metal fabrication companies that produce quality work. However, it does mean that the cheapest quote may not be from the most reliable and talented business. While it’s always nice to save a few bucks, it’s never worth sacrificing quality. Here are three reasons why you should avoid the cheapest metal fabrication quote:

1. They May Not Be the Right Metal Fabrication Company for You

Every company is different. They cater to differently sized businesses, they have different processes, they use different materials, they have different qualifications, and different equipment. While you think you may be hiring a cheap metal fabrication company to save a few dollars, it’s very likely that you won’t be receiving the specific services you’re looking for.

2. It’s Not All About Money

Sure, paying less for something is always good. However, it’s not all about money in the metal fabrication industry. What’s important is that you find a metal fabricator who is able to take your vision and make it a reality. That oftentimes means hiring someone who has the right equipment, experience, and so on.

3. Hidden Costs

When someone offers a suspiciously low quote, there’s always a reason. Often, these metal fabrication companies will say anything to get you hooked, after which they will then slowly start adding on small fees.

At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality work at the most affordable rates. To ensure high rates of customer satisfaction, we always use the best quality materials because we want your projects to last. While we may not offer the cheapest metal fabrication quotes, we can guarantee that we offer affordable rates for high-quality services. If you’re interested in learning more about our metal fabrication services, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Read More
metal fabricator

3 Ways a Metal Fabricator Can Help You Save Money

When looking for a metal fabricator, it’s important that you choose the right person for the job. Many contract manufacturing companies offer metal fabrication, but few are as qualified or experienced as the Rider Tool and Manufacturing team. The more experience a metal fabricator has, the better job they will do and the more money you will save. There are many more ways a professional metal fabricator can help you save money, here are three.

1. Engineering Services

Whenever you work with a metal fabricator from a contract manufacturing company, make sure that the company does in-house design. When metal fabricators have experience in design, they can help you optimize your project design and material choices.

2. Mill-Direct Savings

Certain metal fabricators are able to save clients money because they purchase mill-direct supplies. This allows metal fabricators to negotiate better materials and better prices for their clients.

3. Fabrication Technique

The final way experienced metal fabricators can help you save money is by suggesting different fabrication techniques. As metal fabrication experts, all of our metal fabricators can analyze and critique your designs to ensure the correct metal fabrication process will be followed.

At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we offer metal fabrication and machining services to a wide range of businesses. As one of the leading contract manufacturing companies in Ontario, we pride ourselves on not only the high quality but also the low cost of our services. We have spent years perfecting our custom metal fabrication process, which means we can do the job quickly and efficiently. If you have any questions about our custom metal fabrication or mechanical engineering services, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Read More
metal fabrication design

3 Ways to Optimize Your Custom Metal Fabrication Design

Metal fabrication is an intricate process. Before any custom metal fabrication process can begin, a design must be completed. Metal fabrication design helps take your project from visualization to reality. If you come to Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. with an idea of what you need, we can help take the vision in your head and create a detailed design. With the right tools, knowledge and hands-on experience, the right manufacturing company can create a fantastic design. However, there are ways to optimize your custom metal fabrication design to improve its quality, which include the following:

Involve Your Fabricator in the Initial Stages

Your fabricator will be able to tell you whether your designs are practical. If they are involved in the beginning stages of the design process, you can save yourself time and money in the long run.

Choose the Right Materials

Certain metals work best with specific designs. Do your research before starting the design process and narrow down your metal options. Then, speak to your fabricator and get their opinion about the metal you choose.

Test Your Design Prior to Production

Some designs work well in theory, but not in practice. You can avoid disappointment by testing your design using 3D models and prototypes.

At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we have been working in the custom metal fabrication industry for over 45 years. When it comes to optimizing metal fabrication design, no one does it better than us. If you have any questions about custom metal fabrication or the other services we provide, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Read More
deburring

Deburring in the Custom Metal Fabrication Industry

At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we make the custom metal fabrication process look easy. That’s what happens when you’ve been in business for 45 years! However, there are many steps when it comes to metal fabrication. Deburring is an essential step in that process.

What Is Deburring?

Metal can be a difficult medium to work with. It often has imperfections that are only amplified during the fabrication process. In order to get rid of these imperfections, metal is grinded, milled, engraved and drilled. However, these steps can create burrs. Burrs are rough edges left on a piece of metal by the tools used in the fabrication process. There are three main types of burrs, namely breakout, rollover and Poisson.

Deburring is the process that removes burrs from metal. Metal can be deburred in several different ways including manually, electronically, mechanically as well as by using thermal energy.

Why Is Deburring Important for Custom Metal Fabrication?

Deburring is important for custom metal fabrication because it improves an enclosure’s strength and longevity. It’s crucial that burrs are removed because, if not, they can cause serious damage to enclosures. For example, failure to deburr metal can cause problems with the material, electrical charge, a shortened life cycle and more.

Are you looking for a contract manufacturing company to meet your custom metal fabrication needs? Look no further. For more information on how we can help, contact us today.

Read More
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.

Read More
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. 

Read More
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. 

 

Read More
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.

Read More
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. 

Read More
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. 

Read More