In 1837, a young blacksmith named John Deere revolutionized the agricultural world with his steel plow. He replaced the familiar cast iron with steel, noting that the rich soils of the Midwest didn’t stick to it. Plowing became faster and more manageable. Steel continues to be the best metal for farm implements today, though its usage differs based on the application. The Best Metal for Agriculture Equipment Most heavy equipment manufacturers still rely on steel for the primary construction of their machinery. Structural steel shells meet with solid steel frames on tractors, combines, tillers ..read more

Numerous metal manufacturing processes exist for fabricating and finishing parts. Some methods have withstood the test of time, while others are newer to the industry. Each parts manufacturing process has distinct advantages that make it ideal for specific project applications. Sheet Metal Sheet metal is one of the more prevalent production methods because it accommodates many different metals. Aluminum, nickel, tin, copper and steel are all good candidates for sheet metal. The base metal passes through a series of rollers designed to flatten the metal to a specified thickness or gauge. Fabric ..read more

Sheet metal stamping dies are the parts responsible for cutting and shaping pieces made from sheet metal. Engineering diagrams provide specifications, and a trained diemaker creates the tool. The diemaker then attaches the die to the manufacturing equipment to produce the desired part. The Sheet Metal Stamping Process Sheet metal stamping produces uniform parts, called piece parts, according to exact dimensions. This process is ideal for simple components. The first step of the sheet metal stamping process is engineering. A developer generates drawings of the piece part, often using computer-a ..read more

Metal fabrication shops have been utilizing turret punching since the 1950s. The process entails using a specially designed press that can punch holes into sheet metal more quickly and efficiently than a conventional press. Turret punching is an excellent fit for any company looking for the flexibility to increase or decrease the size of their production runs and have more design versatility. It can also deliver the short turnaround times companies need to improve customer service and gain a competitive edge. The Benefits of Turret Punching A turret punch can provide several advantages to the ..read more

Finding ways to become more environmentally friendly is a primary focus of companies in many industries, and metal manufacturing is no exception. While implementing more sustainable practices can pose a challenge, it can be beneficial for any business that makes the effort. While many use the terms “sustainable manufacturing” and “green manufacturing” interchangeably, they have slightly different meanings. “Going green” typically refers to a singular process or product, such as manufacturing a product from recycled materials. Sustainability entails a more broad, holistic approach that encompas ..read more

From doorknobs and locks to cars and kitchen appliances, metal manufacturing produces many of the tools and products we use every day. Metal fabrication plays a significant role in the advancement of technology and innovation. As new machines and processes are implemented into metal manufacturing, fabricators can create more advanced products and increase efficiency. This innovation makes new products more affordable, giving more people access to them. Metal fabrication machinery speeds up the production rate, reduces operation costs and increases the accuracy of its processes. Metal Fabricati ..read more

Metal manufacturing is integral to modern society. Locks, chairs, utensils, light fixtures, cars and many more of the products and tools we use daily are made possible through metalworking. Metalworking throughout history has played a crucial role in society and the progression of technology. The history of metal fabrication extends to ancient civilizations that used metal to craft coins, weapons and art. From early metal fabrication processes to the production of modern, high-tech equipment today, metal manufacturing allows people to create innovative, time-saving products that improve t ..read more

Every great product begins as an idea. Researchers, engineers and manufacturers all play a part in transforming that idea into a viable product that improves the lives of those who use it. Moving your product through the stages from design to fabrication to product release is a complex process with many factors involved. Each idea flows through gradual stages that lead to the ultimate mass production of a successful new product. 1. Prototype Design The first step in the manufacturing process is to come up with a practical design. You will typically begin design fabrication with intense researc ..read more

Stainless steel is an incredibly versatile material for creating lightweight and corrosion-resistant products in a wide range of sizes and shapes. One method of making these products is to use metal stamping and create a die that cuts the shapes out of a flat panel of stainless steel. This method is a great choice for the majority of stainless steel production, but it requires a robust understanding of the metal itself. There are many different types and grades of stainless steel, each with different characteristics that will influence manufacturing. At Fairlawn Tool, we understand the nuance ..read more

When a job requires metal fabrication, there are typically two options: contracting the work out or building the components in-house. Both have their advantages, but it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of each option for your manufacturing operation. While in-house metal manufacturing may sound preferable, working with contract manufacturers can often allow you to experience the same advantages at a lower cost. Let’s take a closer look at these two options. The Pros and Cons of In-House Metal Manufacturing In-house metal manufacturing offers complete and total control over many asp ..read more