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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Metal fabrication

The Biggest Trends in the Metal Fabrication Industry for 2019

It’s been a great last few years in the metal fabrication industry. Even with the Trump administration raising tariffs and causing the price of aluminum in the USA to spike, there was steady growth in 2018 in the custom metal fabrication sector. However, at Rider Tool we’re always looking forward. These are the trends to keep an eye on in 2019:

  • Automation
    Robotics is getting more and more advanced. As AI and Deep Learning starts to become more commonplace, we may see robotics take up larger and more complex roles in the aluminum, iron and steel fabrication industries.
  • Emerging Markets
    The previous years have seen a surge in the emerging market sector. 2019 seems set to be a record high in the African and Asian markets, and metal fabrication will be at the forefront of these developing countries.
  • 3D Printing
    While 3D printing is no longer as novel as it once was, the technology behind it keeps advancing, making 3D printing an ever more viable and cost-efficient method of metal fabrication.
  • Research and Development
    Science and technology are constantly advancing, and fabricators are starting to see the value in investing in research and development. With new markets opening up, the metal fabrication industry is only going to get more competitive, so new ideas and innovative problem-solving techniques are what are going to keep companies ahead of the game.

With over 50 years of experience in machining, the Szakasci family are the leaders in fabrication, machining and mechanical engineering. Through us, Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. has become the trusted name for manufacturing services in the mining, oil, gas and steel sectors. For more information on what we can do for your business, contact us today.

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Metal fabrication

The Difference between Ironwork and Sheet Metal Fabrication

Contrary to popular belief, there is a big difference between ironwork and sheet metal fabrication. As leading specialists in metal fabrication in Oshawa, Ontario, we look at the main differences between the two below:

 

  • Sheet Metal Fabrication 

Sheet metal fabrication is all about working with metals in order to ensure peak functionality in terms of the final product. Many metals can be used in metal fabrication including stainless steel, copper, zinc and aluminum to name a few. Generally, sheet metal fabrication focuses on the creation of products that serve a purpose, such as car parts, gutters and roofs.

 

  • Ironwork 

The realm of ironwork focuses on the structural elements of a finished product, and is a little more complex. There are three types of ironwork, namely:

 

  1. Reinforcing Ironwork

In reinforcing ironwork, the focus is on strengthening structures.

 

  1. Ornamental Ironwork

In ornamental ironwork, the focus is on creating metal that can be used for architectural purposes.

 

  • Structural Ironwork

In structural ironwork, the focus is on creating sturdy frameworks.

 

Regardless of whether you are looking for a company that specializes in ironwork or sheet metal fabrication, you will need to find one that has many years of experience, along with the right equipment, to provide you with the results you are looking for. With over 40 years of experience and a specialization in custom metal fabrication and mechanical engineering, you can count on the team at Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. For more information about why we are considered one of the best contract manufacturing companies in Ontario, do not hesitate to get in touch.

 

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Stainless Steel – Is it Worth the High Cost?

If you are considering custom metal fabrication, you are probably trying to decide which type of metal is the best choice for your project – stainless steel, copper, aluminum or carbon steel. Through your research, you will have likely found out that stainless steel offers a number of benefits. However, it is also the most costly option out there. The question is, is it really worth the high cost? We investigate below.

 

  • Durability 

From a durability perspective, stainless steel is undoubtedly the way to go. It will not fade, crack or peel and it can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications. Stainless steel is also particularly shiny and will remain a consistent colour for a product’s lifespan. It is more durable than any other type of metal used in custom metal fabrication.

 

  • Simplicity 

Because stainless is steel is extremely lightweight, it is easy to transport and install. It is also self-heating, which means that there is no need for additional coating in order to protect it from harsh environments or to prevent corrosion. In short, it is highly resistant to things like rust and tarnishing.

 

  • The Downside? 

The only reason why you might want to consider another type of metal is that stainless steel is slightly less flexible and malleable than certain other metals that can be used for fabrication, such as aluminum.

 

Overall, if you are looking for a metal that is practically indestructible and that promises endurance, longevity, lustre and reliable corrosion resistance, then stainless steel is the best choice for you. Sometimes it is worth it to spend a little more to get the results you are hoping for.

 

In need of a steel fabrication company to assist you with custom metal fabrication? Look no further than Rider Tool & Manufacturing Co. Contact us today to learn more about our range of services.

 

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