The technology found in fabrication shops looks a lot different than it did several decades ago. From the integration of computer software into various types of machines, to the use of automation and robotics to perform basic and complex tasks, to new types of fabrication, there are a lot of ways that the fabrication shop has advanced over the years.
CAD/CAM Software
Computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software have been two of the biggest benefits to quality and precision fabrication. CAD programs allow product developers and engineers to examine three-dimensional designs through a computer, make minute adjustments and determine the best possible dimensions and geometry of a part and determine its manufacturability, as well as the right processes to make it. CAM software is used on a wide range of machines and works hand in hand with CAD, translating the details from the design into instructions that guide the machine in whatever process it performs. CAD and CAM software have vastly improved both the tolerances that fabrication shops can achieve and the level of quality that they can offer.
Automation and Robotic Welding
Automation has been incorporated into many aspects of fabrication, from pick and place robotics to move parts along and perform simple assembly in larger factories, as well as lights’ out capabilities for increased production capacity. Robotics technology has also been used to help speed up the operation of certain types of processes, such as welding. Robotic welders can come in several different types, but all of them offer a higher level of speed as well as improved weld quality and consistency over manual welding.
Speaking of welding, there have been many new types of welding that have been developed in addition to the typical MIG and TIG welders, like laser welding. Laser welding utilizes a high-energy beam of light in order to heat two metals and join them together. This is a highly precise method of welding, creating an incredibly small heat affected zone and reducing the amount of resulting deformation.
Consistent Advancements in Cutting Technologies–Fiber Laser Cutting
Fabrication techniques are always improving–laser cutting technology is one of the best examples of this! Fiber laser cutting is the most recent iteration of this technique, utilizing fiber optic cables in order to create a highly focused beam of energy in order to precisely cut various types and configurations of metal. This is an incredibly fast and efficient method of cutting through different types and thicknesses of materials, and is one of the most versatile and accurate types of cutting in the modern fabrication shop.
Technology Advancements at Morton Industries
At Morton, we’ve seen these changes firsthand. We are a precision fabrication shop that commits ourselves to continuous improvement so that we can provide better efficiency and quality to our customers, keeping our fabrications at the forefront of product and service offerings in contract manufacturing. Our shop houses some of the latest innovations in technology, such as laser welding, fiber laser cutting, electric tube benders, robotic weld cells, the latest in folding equipment, automated powder coating lines, and more. Our goal is to give our customers the absolute best when it comes to quality and efficient fabrication services.
Interested in partnering with Morton Industries? Head over to our website or contact us to request a quote on your next project today!
