Metal fabrication

Automation in metal fabrication continues to become more mobile

Think about an automated precision sheet metal operation, one with all the technological bells and whistles at every manufacturing step. A flexible manufacturing system brings sheet from a live-inventory tower system to a laser cutting bed. The formed pieces are stacked and then brought to processes downstream like welding and powder coating. It’s the epitome of flexible manufacturing automation—except, that

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Attracting and keeping metal fabrication workers

Retaining workers is a concern for any business, but metal fabricators face some unique challenges. Because the industry requires specialized skills, there is a shortage of workers who have the necessary experience to meet shops’ needs. The physically demanding nature of the work can be a barrier to attracting workers. And because metal fabrication often involves working with heavy machinery

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