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.

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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.

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metal fabrication

3 Differences Between Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel

At Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co., we specialize in metal fabrication, machining and mechanical engineering. While we now provide services to several industries, our work started in the steel industry. Despite expanding in the past 45 years, the steel industry still holds a special place in our hearts.

Today, our metal fabrication services involve the fabrication of various types of steel. One of the most common questions we get asked is, “What is the difference between stainless steel and carbon steel?” There are several main differences, which include the following:

Corrosion Resistance

Carbon steel and stainless steel are made out of different elements, but one element that they both have in common is iron. Iron oxidizes quickly, which can cause rust. However, stainless steel also contains chromium, which acts as a barrier to corrosion. This makes stainless steel more resistant to corrosion than carbon steel.

Appearance

If you are looking for an attractive metal, you may want to opt for stainless steel. Because stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion, it tends to stay shinier. Carbon steel, on the other hand, requires a coat of paint after polishing to remain aesthetically pleasing and rust-free.

Price

In general, carbon steel is less expensive than stainless steel. However, different grades cost different amounts.

If you are having to decide between using stainless or carbon steel, be sure to read the differences carefully. While neither metal is better than the other, they are very different. 

Are you in need of custom metal fabrication services? Contact Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. today to learn more about our steel fabrication services.

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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.

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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.

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welding

How to weld aluminium

A lightweight, thin metal, aluminium is commonly used in welding workshops. Welding aluminium needs to be done at low temperatures. A reactive material, this metal forms an oxide layer when exposed which could be tricky as this results in porous welds. 

Welding any material can be a challenging process, especially lightweight materials. This requires the utmost precision to ensure a strong bond. In order to successfully weld aluminium, you need to assemble the right tools, exercise caution and patience and, gain experience. 

Assemble your tools

You will need:

  • A Tungsten Inert Gas welder with AC capability (not only DC). This type of welder uses a tungsten electrode and an inert gas to shield the welding area. 
  • An aluminium filler rod. This tool is needed to bond the two pieces. Make sure that the rod is free of rust or dirt as this may lead to a weaker weld.
  • A canister of argon gas. The gas’s purpose in the welding process is to shield.
  • Protective clothing. Opt for a 100% cotton long sleeve shirt and long pants with no cuffs. 
  • Use safety equipment. You’ll need a heavy welding helmet, a thick pair of gloves and a respirator. 

Get your workspace ready

  • Clean away the aluminium oxide. Aluminium forms a thin coat of aluminium oxide on its exterior over time. This melts at a much higher temperature. You’ll need to do this mechanically by using a wire-brush, a grinder or filing away the oxides.  
  • Clean the filler rod. Use an abrasive cleaning pad with acetone to ensure the rod is free from contaminants. 
  • Clamp your workpieces together as tightly as possible
  • Preheat the aluminium workpiece. You can heat your workpiece by placing it directly into an oven or by using a propane torch. Benchmark a temperature between 300 degrees Fahrenheit and 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Make sure that your workspace is ventilated and a cool environment.

  • Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand. 

Get welding!

  • Set your welder’s amperage. Aim for 1 amp per 0.001 inch of your workspace’s thickness. It is recommended to set the welder’s amperage to a higher notch than you expect to need and then to tone the current back down with your foot pedal. 
  • Place your tools and workspace into position. Extend the tungsten electrode by no more than diameter of your torch’s nozzle. Press the button on the torch and use the foot pedal.
  • Create the puddle. Begin melting the workpiece until you create an adequately sized puddle no wider than the diameter of your filler. Add the filler rod to fill in the joint and then move onto the next portion of the weld. Complete this process until the weld is complete. 

For more information on welding, contact us today! 

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quality control metal fabrication

5 Benefits of Quality Control in Metal Fabrication

Quality control is a non-negotiable element in all manufacturing processes. We can’t speak for other industries, but as a business in the field of metal fabrication, we understand the particular importance of quality control. From our point of view, quality control brings the following five primary benefits, which creates a win-win situation for us and all our clients and their stakeholders.

First and Foremost – Safety!

The main outcome of excellent quality control is increased safety – both in the manufacturing process and the final product itself. If our workmanship is good, and if the materials are impeccable, resulting in a final product that is made to exacting standards, it will translate into many years of safe use for the customer.

Quality control over the fabrication and installation processes also secures the safety of our engineers, technicians and operators, as well as our clients.

Ensuring Strength and Good Functionality

The metal industry has more variables than many may believe. Steel is never just steel; there are many varieties of different alloy compositions, strengths and qualities. Our quality control standards begin at the selection of materials, guiding our acquisition of only the best steel from trusted suppliers. This means high quality and strength in the end product.

Quality control also dictates the process of building a particular piece of equipment commissioned by the client. We need to ensure that it is made to exact specifications and that the finished tool will do exactly what is required both effectively and efficiently. This involves a series of careful checks, inspections and tests throughout the job’s duration.

Consistency

It doesn’t do us or our clients any good to do one excellent job followed by others that are mediocre or poor, or simply of differing quality. Materials and processes must be standardized to ensure that everyone benefits from exactly the same high level of workmanship and materials, regardless of the specifics of the job. A steady quality control protocol ensures this ongoing consistency.

Repeat Business and Good Customer Relationships

It’s simple: satisfied customers will keep coming back and/or they will recommend you to others. The more consistently satisfactory work you deliver, the more likely you are to bring those clients back. The more you work with them, the more familiar you will become with their needs, and the more able you will be to meet them.  

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Quality control leads to the production of well-made products that will operate effectively for years to come, requiring fewer repairs and maintenance. During the fabrication process, it is worth taking the time and care to smooth out any wrinkles, so as to ensure that you won’t have to patch up any faults later.

Rider Tool and Manufacturing Co. takes quality control very seriously. Are you looking for quality, custom-made, fabricated metal products? Contact us and see what we can do for you.

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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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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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