The Steel Fabricators' Review V21 - Winter 2007

F A B R I C A T O R S M A K I N G T O D A Y ’ S S K Y L I N E P O S S I B L E

TABLE OF CONTENTSCollins Industries

Doing Business in a Family Way 2Novel Iron

50 Years of Steel 4Remote Diagnostics

A Standard Feature With Systems Controlled With the Siemens 840 Series of CNC 9

Allied MachineMaximizing Drilling System Performance 12

Design Build Your Shop of the FutureDon’t Simply Retool…Rethink 14

Akhurst MachineryA Strong Customer Base Leads to Success 18

Arizona Structure Technologies, Inc.Move Over Vegas! 20

ACC Machinery CoA Look Back on the Early Days of Metalworking 21

In December, a report was made on the fastest

growing areas of the United States. For years,

Las Vegas held that honor. Who wouldn’t want to

relocate and be a part of the city that claims,

“what happens here, stays here”?

Well, move over Vegas! The current metropolitan

area with the fastest growth is now Phoenix…

that vibrant jewel in the Southwest that is a mecca

for winter weary Midwesterners, and East Coast

inhabitants alike.

Continued on page 20

COLLINS INDUSTRIES: Doing Business in a Family WayWhen discussing interesting places to visit,Edmonton, Alberta normally doesn’t land at the topof the tourist “Best Spots in the World” list. For themost part, American citizens are hard pressed tolocate Edmonton—or Alberta—on a map.

Here's a tip: contact your travel agent and book aflight to one of the most vibrant, energetic cities inNorth America. It’s not just the land of the auroraborealis (commonly called The Northern Lights)—but it is a dynamic center of commerce—especiallyfor the “oil patch” which makes Edmonton a thriving metropolis.

Continued on page 2

ARIZONA STRUCTURE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

NOVEL IRON 50 Years of Steel FabricationLocated in the seacoast region of

New Hampshire, just off of Interstate 95, is

the world class facility of Novel Iron Works, Inc.

This industry leader has recently celebrated

their 50th anniversary in the steel fabrication

business and enjoys the respect of their

customers throughout the New England/Boston

marketplace.

See full story on page 4

Jeff Hannah, Project Manager for Arizona Structure Technologies

Paul Collins, Founder/Owner of Collins Industries

2 STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEW WINTER 2007

COLLINS: Family Business

Continued from page 1

The oil industry from the tar sands projects iswell known, but there are other business con-tributors who insure the “oil patch” is pumping.One of the most active and thriving entities is a structural fabricator founded in 1984—Collins Industries.

Paul Collins has been in the steel constructionbusiness since 1958. He crafted his fabricationskill with the help of his older brothers before“heading out west” to start his own business. In1984, Collins Industries was founded with twoemployees, Paul and Bill Hartshore.

Their very first customer was IntexConstruction, who later became LedcorConstruction. Ledcor remains a CollinsIndustries customer to this day. Ledcor is currently working on a joint project withCollins that is called the “Alberta Mall”. This project is over 1 million square feet, with a contract value in excess of $13,000,000.

Collins Industries builds structural steel andmiscellaneous metals for commercial and indus-trial use. In Paul’s words, “In business you eithermove uphill fast, or downhill fast. You find aniche in the marketplace that works for you."

The manufacturing plant is located in SouthEast Edmonton close to rail links and highways,allowing them to easily ship products as distantas western Saskatchewan and northern B.C.They have even exported miscellaneous metalsto Russia.

Automation and EducationIf you asked Paul Collins the main missionstatement or theme for directing his company,he doesn’t miss a beat, “Automation andEducation are the keys to Collins’ success”,advises Paul, “Automation started in the drawing

Collins—bay one

South Edmonton Common Fashion Center Shaw Conference Center, Edmonton

“ We do about

10 times the production

in a month

that we did

in the first year.”

WINTER 2007 STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEW 3

office so that future CNC data could be fed tothe Peddinghaus automated equipment.”

“That has been the key to our success”, advises Paul, “By using the latest technologiesfor fabricating structural steel, we have seenunprecedented growth in our business.”

How Do You Grow A Business? With Solid, Reliable Industry PartnersLike many fabricators, Paul Collins purchased aPeddinghaus 210 Super 20 Ironworker to assistin his early structural fabrication process. TheSuper 20 was rugged, durable with a largepunching and shearing capacity—perfectly builtas a “do-it-all” machine.

As Collins Industries continued to grow, heworked closely with business partners withmachine tool experience: Akhurst Machineryand Peddinghaus. Akhurst was instrumental inadvising Collins to purchase equipment in theproper sequence. This insured proper paybackwhen accruing capital tax investment. “Having adependable advisor is a comforting strength ofthe dealer/customer relationship.”

As business grew, Paul continued his string ofPeddinghaus success:

1998: A new Peddimax 110/140 Ironworker to assist the old 210 Super 20

2000: A new BDL 760 drill line complete with material handling system

2003: An FPB 1500 CNC plate processing system from a partnering firm

2004: A new AFPS 823 Anglemaster for8x8x3/4” and 12x1” plate capacity

2006: A new DGP 1020 patented miter band saw

2007: Awaiting delivery of a new FDB 2500with High Speed drilling, Hy-PerformancePlasma Cutting, Oxy-Fuel, and ScribePart Marking capacity.

Continued on page 6

823 Anglemaster

3-D Modeling Loading 823 Anglemaster

Loading BDL 760

Processed beams


NOVEL IRON: 50 Years of Steel


The founder, Ralph Noveletsky, started the original shop in Malden, Massachusetts. Novel Iron has always been an innovator in the industry. Even before the invention of CNC automated machine tools for structural steel fabrication, they recognized that material handling was key to the success of the company. It has always been Novel’s belief that anyone can fabricate steel, but it’s the flow of the steel through the process that makes the difference. This philosophy is evident from their beginnings. Fifty years ago, they developed and built their own material handling systems.

Their ingenuity is further demonstrated by theunique adaptation of a back hoe arm to transfersteel beams from a transfer to a conveyor table.

In the early 60s, Novel was one of the first companies in the United States to purchase abeam punch-line. This three punch steel tapebeam-line was the beginning of their love affairwith automated machine tools. This allowedemployees to concentrate on the main task offabricating steel rather than being tied up withmoving material from one station to anotherand enhanced productivity. Novel did not stopwith the beam punch line and continued with asemi automatic dumping system to send beamsto fit-up and painting without the use of anoverhead crane.

In 1977 it was recognized that the growth ofthe city of Boston made it impossible to expandin Malden, Massachusetts. Land was purchasednear Greenland, New Hampshire. With closeproximity to Interstate 95 interchange, theynow have easy access to the entire New Englandmarket as well as the metropolitan Boston area.

In 1978 they completed the new shop and their own material handling conveyor andtransfer system. At first they relied on aNumerical Controlled Beamline, but then afterPeddinghaus introduced CNC beam drilling in1980, they recognized the advantages of true,three spindle beam drilling. Still not satisfiedwith out-of-the-box automation, they developedan idea that was soon adopted by manymachine tool builders and fabricators. Theoperator control station was moved to a vantage

point literally above the infeed conveyor of the CNC multiple spindle drill line. This hasproven to be a great success on both their original model TDK 1000/3 drill line and nowthe state-of-the-art BDL 1250/9. The new control tower gives the operator a clear vision of the drilling operations and the entire shopfitting area. This “NOVEL” idea brings manyadvantages not possible while working from afloor mounted control location. The design ofthe multiple spindle drill line makes it nearly

An early design of a transfer table to feed a milling type cold saw.

Novel’s ingenuity is demonstrated by the unique adaptation of a back hoe arm to transfer steel beams from a transfer to a conveyor table.


impossible to see all drilling operations at one time and from one side view. Watchingfrom the conveyors while good for viewing isimpossible from a safety concern. Other shopshave tried to solve this vision dilemma withclosed circuit television. Cameras haveimproved over the years but coolant spray andother factors still prevent as accurate a pictureon a monitor as the human eye looking througha clear window. The camera also only sees a

small focused area while the operator’s windowlets him see everything. Now, running out ofdrill coolant is caught before damage is done to a drill bit. Chip conditions can be monitoredand the operator can react before a tool is damaged. The Novel control tower is even morevaluable on the Coping machines where torchadjustments are more as torch tips become dirtyand beam scale changes. This operator/controlposition is now standard on all PeddinghausABCM-1250-3 Structural Burning Centers.

Machine tool monitoring is not the only benefitof having beams running under the operator. Inthe Novel Iron Works fabrication system, theoperator serves several functions. His controlstation essentially is a command post. Aided bythe fact the beam drill line runs automatically,the operator is free to perform other tasks suchas controlling the mix of work brought into theshop and distributes the beams to various work-stations needing work. After sawing, both sawoperators have the ability to send material tonumerous holding areas between the outsidesaw house and the main shop building. The sawoperators need only push a button to send thecompleted member to a specific holding station.

The drill line operator never loses sight of thedrilling operation as he selects the next materialto come into the shop. This is done with closedcircuit television mounted high on the end ofthe shop that gives him a full view of the sawedmaterial holding area. Just like the saw operatorwho sent the material to a holding point with a one button operation the drill line operatoronly has to push the button of the station holding the beam he wants next. It will beloaded onto the roller conveyor and sent justshort of the shop entry door. When a beam isfinished drilling/marking and layout, the nextbeam is always waiting. In a matter of secondsthe next program is downloaded from the network into the CNC control and the newbeam is into production. Now the operatortakes advantage of his clear view of the fitupdepartment and quickly establishes which station is available for new work. As the

commercial says, “Press it and forget it”! A single lettered button is used to send thecompleted beam to the next operation. It notonly conveys to the waiting station but alsounloads. Of course there are safety lockouts if the station is occupied by plant personnel.

With the knowledge and experience of being in the steel fabrication business for 50 years coupled with the state of the art technology,Novel is poised to move into the future andremain one of the industry's leaders. It will beinteresting to be around in 2050 and look backat the advances in technology that the next 50 years will bring.

Novel’s love affair with automated machine tools began with this three punch steel tape beamline.

Novel innovated this semi automatic dumping system to send beams to fit-up and painting without using an overhead crane.

Novel Iron Works storage yard

Following Novel’s lead, the operator control station of the TDK 1000/3 and now the BDL 1250/9 is situated abovethe infeed conveyor to provide a clear vision of the entiredrilling operation.

Novel today


COLLINS: Family Business


Keeping Up with New Technology in theSteel Construction IndustryPaul is quick to point out the significance of thePeddinghaus drill line purchase: “The new drillline was very important to our corporate growthas it enabled Collins to reach a new level of accuracy and safety for our employees.”

“We purchased the complete Peddinghaus system…here’s why:”• The Peddinghaus machines gave Collins

greater accuracy with less human error• It meshed perfectly with our existing X-Steel

drafting software• The combination of X-Steel and Peddinghaus

greatly increased our production capacity• The Peddinghaus drill eliminated over 10,000

man-hours the first year

How Has Employing Technology HelpedCollins Industries?“The impact is dynamic”, advises Paul. “Thefabricated sections are more accurate, plus wehave reduced our labor costs—while increasingproduction—which is pretty remarkable. Thisincreased capacity has enabled Collins to fabri-cate larger projects, which grows the company.”

What Separates a Good Investment from aGREAT Investment?A successful businessman must be very prudentin his decision making process—especially when it comes to large capital investments likemachine tools. The equipment that you purchase becomes the backbone of your opera-tion. Your company also develops an identitywithin the industry based on the productivityand accuracy of the equipment.

“I am delighted with our Peddinghausmachines. Our average return on investment forour Peddinghaus equipment has been extremelyfast. Each of the machines has paid for itself inless than 2.5 years.”

Edmonton, Moose Jaw, or Anchorage:Customer Service is Vital to SuccessWhen discussing customer service, Paul states itsimply, “Peddinghaus and Akhurst have alwaysbeen there for us if we have any service issues.The most important factor for our success is

our young enthusiastic employees who workhand-in-hand with Akhurst and Peddinghausservice technicians.”

“Akhurst has a service staff here in Edmonton.Clayton is a dedicated guy who always goes thatextra mile for us. Service with a smile really hap-pens with him.”

“The combination of our people working incoordination with Akhurst and Peddinghausmakes a real difference in our continued success.These guys are very helpful and enthusiastic intheir approach to their work. To put it simply,together, we make an excellent team.”

A Family Business Led by the Golden RulePaul is the youngest of 14 children. The Collinsfamily has been involved in the structural steelindustry in Edmonton since 1959. When Paulmoved from Newfoundland to Alberta in 1966,he immediately became involved in the steelindustry.

Married for 31 years, Paul and his wife have fivechildren. Their sons Jason and Ryan play animportant role in the family firm while theirdaughters are pursuing various interests.

Paul’s life is driven by his Christian beliefs andstrong faith in God and that is reflected both athome and in the office. His personal missionstatement has become the mission statement ofCollins Industries…

“Treat others the same way you wantthem to treat you” Luke 6:31

Calgary Airport

(L to R) Jason Collins, Ryan Collins, Rob Schill andPaul Collins (back row)

“I feel extremely proud and excited for the next generation of the Collins family, as our company is as solid as can be. Thanks again to our partners Akhurst and Peddinghaus!”

Calgary Parkade

Ready for paint!


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YOUR PARTNERS… YOUR PRODUCTS…

YOUR STEEL…WITH SDS/2.



To continue to provide industry

leading customer service and

support, Peddinghaus includes

remote diagnostics as a

standard feature on all systems

controlled with the

Siemens 840 series of CNC.

This feature is made possible in part, by including an installation of PC-Anywhere software used in conjunction with a Peddinghaus suppliedphone modem or optionally from a network or internet connection to the Siemens CNC.

Using this system, Peddinghaus technicians can remotely connect to a customer’s machine to:• Perform routine maintenance.• Diagnose technical problems.• Monitor machine functionality including PLC logic flow.• Add new features.• Perform software updates.

This system in combination with expert remote support provided byPeddinghaus will result in:• Less frequent service calls required for the machines.• Much lower total cost of ownership for the customer.• Reduced down time, waiting for a technician to arrive.• Much greater efficiency in performing routine maintenance.

The real advantages of this system are seen in cases where the customer’sown maintenance personnel are busy elsewhere or during second or thirdshift operations when local maintenance is not available. The remote connection to Peddinghaus also provides a level of on-site expertise not previously available to many customers.

Machine uptime is improved due to:• Rapid availability of expert assistance.• Rapid “online presence“ on-site.• Rapid data transfer to and from the machine.• Remote administration and diagnostic capability.

This system has proven over the last few years to be extremely effective inproviding our customers an alternative to conventional service visits, result-ing in maximum machine uptime at minimum cost. This lower total costof ownership is what makes Peddinghaus the value leader in the industry,and the smart choice for your fabrication solutions!Siemens 840 CNC control

Remote DiagnosticsWith the Siemens 840D/Di CNC

NASCCTHE STEEL CONFERENCE

incorporating the 2007 Annual Stability Conference

EXHIBITS April 18–20, 2007 • CONFERENCE April 18–21, 2007Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

NEW ORLEANSVISIT PEDDINGHAUS IN BOOTH #1013


Peddinghaus Welcomes Paul Muraski as Central Regional Manager

Paul Muraski started with Peddinghaus on November 20, and has been working hard in the Midwest...

“My first impression of Peddinghaus Corporation is an exciting and energetic organization dedicated

to customer satisfaction. From Anton Peddinghaus on down, the focus is always on the customers and

creating quality products that serve our market.

Since I have a service—as well as sales—background, I viewed the opportunity at Peddinghaus as a

“perfect fit”. The focus on customer service at Peddinghaus is “Priority One”, and that makes my job as

the Central Regional Manager even better.

I am thrilled to be a part of the Peddinghaus Team and I can't wait to hear from you.



Maximizing Drilling System PerformanceThe introduction of new drilling systems for the drilling of structural steel offers the opportunity for the structural steel fabricator toboth increase their productivity and reduce cost.The introduction of inserted type tooling hasthe additional advantage of eliminating theinconsistencies many fabricators experience intheir tool regrinding operations.

The following case study illustrates the potentialimprovements in productivity and associatedreductions in cost that can be achieved by utilizing these new drilling systems.

Drilling System Structural Steel Construction

The customer is a steel fabrication shop drilling I-beams. The machine they used to manufacture theirproduct is a Peddinghaus BDL-1250 with 9 spindles with through-tool coolant.

The customer was drilling 13/16" diameter holes by1/2"deep. The machines were being run at 96.85 SFM,.0085 IPR, and 3.25 IPM. They were currently paying $138 per drill and regrinding 5-6 times. The tool life wasroughly 600-800 holes. A Peddinghaus representative suggested using AMEC drills instead of traditional drills tosave costs. The customer wanted to save time, reduce costand alleviate problems they were having with regrindingtooling in-house.

AMEC’s SolutionAllied recommended using holder #24010H-0041S052 andinsert #151A-0026-NP. It was determined that the toolsshould be run at 125 SFM, .009 IPR, and 5.45 IPM. Theresults showed for themselves. Regrinds were completelyeliminated with these new products and the cycle timewas also decreased. AMEC’s cost/hole was also lowerthan the competition’s cost/hole. For each 1,100 holesprocessed, the savings with the AMEC tool are $149.64 or 37.00%.

BenefitWhile running at conservative speeds and feeds, the customer reaped a 37% savings!Based on the results of this application the customer converted all sizes to AMEC.

Allied Machine & Engineering Corp.

SETUP CONDITION POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Use of standard and extended length holders n n n n n n n n • Start with short holders and drill a minimum depth equal to the margin length.• Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

• Decrease feed a minimum of 50% until establishing full diameter.• Use a special holder with wear pads or chrome bearing area to work with drill bushing.

Starting on an inclined surface n n n n n n n • Spot face surface to provide a flat entry surface.• Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

• Decrease entry feel a minimum of 50% until establishing full diameter.• Use special holder with wear pads or chrome bearing area to work with drill bushing.

Worn or mis-aligned spindle n n n n n n n n n n • Align spindle and turret or tailstock.(lathe, screw machine, chucker) • Repair spindle.

• Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

Use of low rigidity machine tools n n n n n n n n n • Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

(radial drills, multi-spindle drill press, etc.) • Reduce penetration rate to fall within the physical limits of the machine or setup. (Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)

• Use special holder with wear pads or chrome bearing area to work with drill bushing.• Use tougher tool steel grades with high wear resistant coatings.

Poor work piece support n n n n n n n n • Provide additional support for the work piece.(radial drills, multi-spindle drill press, etc.) • Reduce penetration rate to fall within the physical limits of the machine or setup.

(Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)• Use tougher tool steel grades with high wear resistant coatings.

Flood coolant, low coolant pressure n n n n n n n n n n n • Run coolant through tool holder when drilling greater than one times diameter.or low coolant volume • Increase coolant pressure and volume through tool holder.

• Reduce penetration rate to fall within the physical limits of the machine or setup. (Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)

• Add a peck cycle to help clear chips.

Interrupted cuts. Entry or exit surfaces that n n n n n n v n n n n • Pre-mill (spot face) entry or exit surface to remove interruption.are not perpendicular to the spindle (draft • Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

angles, parting lines, curved or stepped surfaces, • Decrease feed as much as 50% through entry or exit interruption.cross holes and cast or forged surfaces) • Use short holders in low impact entry cuts.

Material harder than expected or running n n n n n n • Reduce speed. If a step is worn in the blade, calculate SFM at the worn diameter.tools beyond recommended speed Reduce this value by 10% and apply this new value to the original tool diameter.

• Increase coolant pressure and volume.• Increase coolant condition by use of quality products and regular maintenance.• Select a tool grade (premium, super cobalt, or carbide) or coating (TiAIN or TiCN or

AM200™) that is more wear and heat resistant.

Poor material micro-structure or foreign particles: n n n n n n n • Compare performance of other tools for similar wear problems, which may indicate poor(forgings and castings that have not been micro-structure. Anneal or normalize parts to improve micro-structure for machining.normalized or annealed, poorly prepared steel, • To improve tool life in materials with poor micro-structure try carbide grades.flame cut parts and sand casting) • For hard spots or inclusions use the tougher tool steel grade with high wear resistant

coatings (TiAIN, TiCN or AM200™)• Reduce feeds. (Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)

Poor chip control n n n n n n n n • Increase feed to recommended levels. Contact Allied Applications Engineering Group for technical recommendations.

• Increase coolant pressure and volume.• Improve coolant condition by use of quality products and regular maintenance.

Spot drilled holes with included angle less n n n n n n • Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

than that matching T-A® or cored holes • Reduce feed. If possible, drill from solid.(Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)

Use of high wear resistant tool grades. n n • Use tougher grade of T-A® (from carbide to cobalt to HSS).• Increase rigidity of setup.

ACCE

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TroubleshootingGuide

POTENTIAL PROBLEM


POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

n n n n • Start with short holders and drill a minimum depth equal to the margin length.• Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

• Decrease feed a minimum of 50% until establishing full diameter.• Use a special holder with wear pads or chrome bearing area to work with drill bushing.

n n n n n • Spot face surface to provide a flat entry surface.• Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

• Decrease entry feel a minimum of 50% until establishing full diameter.• Use special holder with wear pads or chrome bearing area to work with drill bushing.

n n n n n n • Align spindle and turret or tailstock.• Repair spindle.• Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

n n n • Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

• Reduce penetration rate to fall within the physical limits of the machine or setup. (Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)

• Use special holder with wear pads or chrome bearing area to work with drill bushing.• Use tougher tool steel grades with high wear resistant coatings.

n n n n n • Provide additional support for the work piece.• Reduce penetration rate to fall within the physical limits of the machine or setup.

(Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)• Use tougher tool steel grades with high wear resistant coatings.

n n n n n n n • Run coolant through tool holder when drilling greater than one times diameter.• Increase coolant pressure and volume through tool holder.• Reduce penetration rate to fall within the physical limits of the machine or setup.

(Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)• Add a peck cycle to help clear chips.

n n n v n n n n • Pre-mill (spot face) entry or exit surface to remove interruption.• Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

• Decrease feed as much as 50% through entry or exit interruption.• Use short holders in low impact entry cuts.

n n n • Reduce speed. If a step is worn in the blade, calculate SFM at the worn diameter.Reduce this value by 10% and apply this new value to the original tool diameter.

• Increase coolant pressure and volume.• Increase coolant condition by use of quality products and regular maintenance.• Select a tool grade (premium, super cobalt, or carbide) or coating (TiAIN or TiCN or

AM200™) that is more wear and heat resistant.

n n n n n • Compare performance of other tools for similar wear problems, which may indicate poormicro-structure. Anneal or normalize parts to improve micro-structure for machining.

• To improve tool life in materials with poor micro-structure try carbide grades.• For hard spots or inclusions use the tougher tool steel grade with high wear resistant

coatings (TiAIN, TiCN or AM200™)• Reduce feeds. (Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)

n n n n n n n • Increase feed to recommended levels. Contact Allied Applications Engineering Group for technical recommendations.

• Increase coolant pressure and volume.• Improve coolant condition by use of quality products and regular maintenance.

n n n • Spot hole with stub tool of same or greater included angle as Drill Insert. T-A®

• Reduce feed. If possible, drill from solid.(Caution: Do not reduce feed below threshold of good chip formation.)

n • Use tougher grade of T-A® (from carbide to cobalt to HSS).• Increase rigidity of setup.

ACCE

LERA

TED

CORN

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EAR

BARB

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BELL

MOU

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POTENTIAL PROBLEM


The market is vibrant;

business has never looked

better, and by making a

PRUDENT MACHINE

TOOL INVESTMENT,

you can ENHANCE YOUR

PRODUCTIVITY and SAVE

MAN HOURS per ton on your

next job. SOUNDS FAIRLY

SIMPLE, RIGHT? WRONG.

One of the biggest decisions

a structural fabricator will ever

make is the selection of proper

equipment for his fabrication shop.

We encourage you to read the

articles in this publication

(and past issues) about diverse

fabricators serving various steel

construction markets. Though

diverse, each fabricator wanted

Peddinghaus’ expertise in providing

an efficient production system for

their specific shop facility.

1DESIGN THE MODULAR WAY–One Step at a TimeFrom column lines to crane-ways to concrete floors, Peddinghaus has engineered effective, modern facilities that serve one purpose—to make you profitable. Using today’s Design Build computer technology, Peddinghaus has developed shop material handling systems that routinely increase productivity by 5-40%, depending on product mix.

2Save Shop Space–Bigger Isn’t Always BetterIn this competitive age, what are areas to examine to improve shop efficiency? Don’t invest in a hugebuilding when a small “garage” or “shed” will do. Why pay taxes and maintain thousands of square feetwhen only hundreds are needed?

IT’S AS SIMPLE AS 1…2…3…Design Build Your Shop of the Future—With PeddinghausDON’T SIMPLY RETOOL your shop with a new machine...RETHINK your entire PROCESSING SYSTEM


Continued on page 16

Peddinghaus’ patented modular design of CNC machinery, accompanied by conveyors and cross transfers, make it easy to grow into the future. A minimal investment now lays the foundation forfuture expansion—at your rate of comfortable development.

3Skilled Labor is Disappearing—CNC Equipment Works 24/7Ask anyone in the metal working industry—not just structural fabrication—and the answer is the same,“I can’t find competent people who want to work in my steel shop”. Everyone is affected—not justyou—but fabricators on every continent face the same labor dilemma.

The solution is CNC Accuracy and Repeatability provided by solid machine tools that work to YOURschedule of delivery.

S AS SIMPLE AS 1…2…3…


Don't’ Retool…Rethink


4AUTOMATION SAVES YOU MONEY–Things to Think AboutThe efficiency of CNC Equipment means less operating costs which save you money in many areas:• Ever improving structural software streamline estimating, detailing, drawing releases, and shop

production—this data can be downloaded directly into a Peddinghaus machine with no extra steps.

5• Because you can operate much more efficiently, your steel costs are more easily controlled, and yourinventory is finally under control.

6• Automation means you control your own destiny; a late delivery from a vendor often means your fit-up and weld schedule is ruined, and now you must juggle your work timetable—costing you timeand money.

7• By staging your production, you can run multiplejobs simultaneously—extending your balancesheet and line of credit—for more customers.

8• Each crane lift costs you $50 minimum—spend some time in your shop and observe how many times a beam is lifted, how many spectators “watch”,and generally how production is interrupted. Add up the minutes and calculate times your cost and burden rate. Multiply that figure hourly and weekly—it is staggering


9A Peddinghaus investment works within your budget—and your business plan—to make significant improvementsin your work flow. The resultant efficiency positively affects your competitiveness and bottom line profitability.Again, don't take our word for it—ask Peddinghaus' customers—they're our best advertisement.

IT’S AS SIMPLE AS 1…2…3…


History

Akhurst Machinery was established by W.A. Akhurst in

1938. His son, H.W. “Spud” Akhurst joined the company in

1945, after serving with the Royal Canadian Navy in

World War II. What started as a family-run enterprise,

operating from a one-room office in Vancouver, has steadily

grown over the years.

Although Akhurst has become a major player in the

Woodworking and Metalworking Industries, today it

remains a family business. Vice-Presidents Brian and

Bruce Akhurst are from the third generation, having

joined the company in the late 60s. The company

has now moved into its fourth generation with the

addition of Graham, Ryan, and Brent Akhurst. The

Akhurst “extended family” is rounded out by a dedicated

team, committed to providing value added solutions to

its customers.

Current Operations: Now in its 7th decade of operations, Akhurst employs

approximately 80 people. The staff have more than 650

years of collective experience working with Akhurst. In

addition to its Head Office and Warehouse facility locat-

ed in Delta (Vancouver), British Columbia, Akhurst has

four branch offices in Canada: Edmonton-Alberta;

Mississauga-Ontario; Longueuil (Montreal-Quebec);

Dieppe (Moncton)-New Brunswick. Akhurst sells and

services machinery, providing equipment and supplies for

businesses engaged in an extensive list of activities. These

include woodworking, panel processing, sawmill, planer

mill, board plant and re-manufacturing, machine tool

and metal fabricating businesses. To serve its customer

base it draws on a network of quality manufacturers

from around the world.

Akhurst’s Machine Tool Division serves the metalwork-

ing industry in western Canada (British Columbia,

Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba). It supplies CNC

controlled turning and machining centers and other

equipment for setting up complete maintenance shops,

tool rooms and fabricating plants.

Akhurst’s Structural Steel Division headed up by George McCarthy and based out of the Edmonton office provides exclusive distributorship for PeddinghausCorporation, the undisputed leader in fabrication equipment, for the 4 western Canadian Provinces. Therelationship with Peddinghaus and Akhurst has beenlong term dating back to the late 60's. AML factorytrained technicians in both Edmonton and Vancouveralong with parts and consumables stocked in Edmonton enable Akhurst to respond to customers concerns quicklyand efficiently. Service is all-important to Akhurst.Akhurst can assist with installation, training and start-upof equipment and is ready to provide maintenance and repair service if required. An Inventory of over

$5 million dollars in machines and parts is maintained at the various Akhurst locations in order to support ourcustomers with the best of service.

Akhurst representatives are in constant communication

with manufacturers through their regular visits to plants

and trade shows, ensuring that Akhurst continues to offer

the very latest technology and concepts to its customers.

Customer BaseAkhurst success is related directly to our strong customer

base. The tremendous amount of large projects in a

vibrant oil related market has opened the door for our

local fabricators to automate. And automate they have,

with the lack of man power facing Western Canada,

CNC drill lines, plate machines, Anglemasters and roller

tables with transfer conveyors have filled their needs.

Peddinghaus and Akhurst Machinery are extremely

proud to be a part of the success of the following loyal

Peddinghaus customers.

• Waiward Steel Fabricators • Collins Industries Ltd. • Supreme Steel Ltd. • W. F. Welding Ltd. • Northern Weldarc Ltd. • Eskimo Steel Ltd. • XL Ironworks Ltd. • Omega Joists Ltd. • Westower Communications • Norfab Manufacturing Ltd. • Triangle Steel Ltd.• Rampart Steel Ltd.• Spartan Steel Ltd. • Clearbrook Ironworks

AKHURST MACHINERY:A Strong Customer Base Leads Directly to Success

RAY ANDERSONParts & Inside Sales—Edmonton

BRAD SUNDEParts & Inside Sales—Edmonton

DAN MACDONALDMachine Tool Sales—Vancouver

GEORGE MCCARTHYManager—Structural

Steel DivisionPeddinghaus Product

Specialist

CLAYTON HANSENService—Prairie Division

BRENT AKHURSTService—West Coast Division

FRED ENGLERGeneral Manager




The astounding growth of the Phoenix area requires a firm foundation—a foundation from a construction company that cut its teeth in Phoenix construction in 1971. A company long “entrenched” in underground, aswell as steel construction. An innovative company that not only works closely with its customers—but also says:

“We have learned a great deal from our customers and it has made us

a better, wiser company.” Bill Harter, CEO

Brad Booth, Chief Operating Officer adds, “Our goal is to create a solidrelationship with our customers on every project. We always work closely tocreate an atmosphere of full cooperation and dedication to a focused goal. It is with 100% mutual satisfaction on a successful project that brings us themost fulfillment.”

Arizona Structure Technologies, Inc. was founded 41 years ago as SandvickEquipment and Supply. The main product at that time was trench boxes forunderground construction. Trench boxes are vital construction tools whenexcavating earthwork, as it serves to maintain the integrity of the trench orexcavation being created. Trench boxes are life saving devices for the neces-sary construction to create a “firm foundation” for any job site.

The firm known as Sandvick continued to flourish, and in 1995, divisionsserved customers in Tucson, Las Vegas, Southern California, Dallas, andAustin. The vibrant marketplace for residential, commercial, and highwayconstruction fueled the growth.

How did Sandvick successfully transition their successful equipment business into structural steel fabrication?“It was three areas,” advises Brad Booth, “First, we had great relationshipswith our customer base of general contractors; secondly, we were good

partners with other steel fabricators in the industry; and thirdly, we always worked with structural steel—from the steel used in building thetrench boxes.”

If asked for a business model to identify the business, Arizona StructureTechnologies would describe itself as a leader in the fabrication of specialtyconstruction products including bridge structures, overhead tubular signstructures and miscellaneous metals with an architectural twist.

The company is Certified by the American Institute of Steel Construction(AISC) for major steel bridges with fracture critical endorsement and theStandard for Steel Building Structures. Arizona Structure Technologies evenhas a full-time certified welding inspector on staff.

Jeff Hannah, Project Manager for Arizona Structure Technologies, advisesthat the very first of Peddinghaus equipment purchased was a Peddimaster1100 Ironworker. The next expansion was in its fabrication capabilities––and a Peddinghaus Advantage structural drilling production line and 90-degree Peddinghaus band saw was added. This advanced system has dramatically increased shop productivity in the cutting and drilling of fulllength structural beams, channel, tube and flat bar.

Recently, Arizona Structure Technologies again partnered with Peddinghausto enhance their shop productivity with the acquisition of a flat plate processing system, model FDB 2500/3, a Cambering machine and a beamcoping line, model ABCM 1250/3. With the addition of these lines,Arizona Structure Technologies has positioned itself as a leader in thePhoenix market, the fastest growing region in the nation.

Arizona Structure Technologies continues on its quest to provide their customers with 100% mutual satisfaction on the many successful projects inwhich they are involved.

Saw/Drill tandem system

Processing Center

ARIZONA STRUCTURE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

Move Over Las Vegas! Phoenix Is On the Move!


Imagine an overline drive shaft powered by air andsteam. See antique lathes, drills, mills, and sawsbeing driven by belts connected to this shaft. Viewbrakes and other equipment that is either hand orpedal operated.

As you watch these historic machines in operation,you gain a feeling of the challenges—and opportuni-ties—that our forefathers experienced as theylabored to build a better product for their communityand their families.

In downtown Phoenix, AZ today, an exquisite collection exists, consisting of antique machines,tools, and the end products derived from these manufacturing processes. This collection wasachieved through the motivated efforts of theArizona Clegg Collection, and is known universallyas ACC Machinery Co.

As you stroll through these aislesof the ACC Machinery Co., youunderstand how manufacturingtook root in the late 1800s and early 1900s. We can witnesshow it took two men to pedal alathe in order to produce a simplemetal part. We become aware of history’s production line and working conditions in the factories of that era.

By entering a restored blacksmithshop, one gains the sense of whattrue metal fabrication involved.The anvil, hammer, and forge were the black-smiths’ tools, as he crafted fabricated parts forhis customers—usually local farmers, ranchers,and shopkeepers. (As an interesting side note:the first product ever manufactured byPeddinghaus in 1903, was a drop forged anvil.)

One can experience that even though technologywas less advanced, products still were made andlife was enjoyed. We sense that great physicaleffort was required in machining, building, andfabricating products. It’s easy to appreciate thefact that machine tools were—and still are—necessary to manufacture those items wedepend upon today such as automobiles, trucks,airplanes, appliances, and medical equipment.

Additionally, think of the effort involved inbuilding construction, regardless of being woodor steel—the laborious and often dangeroustasks—to create the homes and factories of theday. One gains a true appreciation for the engineers, machinists, and steel workers whostrove for a better way to manufacture.

Improving our standard of living was the goalof these pioneering metal workers.Manufacturing still touches our lives in manyways. Without it, we would not have masscommunication, rapid transportation, modern

standards of sanitation and medical care, abundant food and clothing or universal education and leisure time to enjoy.

The ACC Machinery Collection celebrates theimportance and value of manufacturing itself, aswell as demonstrates the progress made sincethe 19th century. It underscores the necessaryrelationship between man and machine.

Mr. Howard Clegg, started his dream collectionof antique machine tools back in 1965. Forthirty years, he would seek unique items thattraced the history of the metal working— andmanufacturing culture. Howard died in 1995,before he could finish planning his dreammuseum. However, the Clegg family maintainsHoward’s dream, and are working to realize his vision.

If you share this kindredthought, contact the Cleggfamily to learn of their ideasand suggestions. It is our heritage and legacy that wepass to our children—which isthe greatest lesson of all.

ACC Machinery Co., Inc.747 Grand AvenuePhoenix, AZ 85007

Tel 602. 258. 7330Fax 602. 258. 9888

Mr. and Mrs. Kirk McDowell

[email protected]

Woodworking Tools

ACC Machinery Co.

Unique Museum Looks Back on the Early Days of Metalworking

Brake Pillow Stuffer Pedal Lathe

Surveyors’ Tools Nickel Stove Drill




VOLUME 21 NEWS FOR THE STRUCTURAL STEEL & PLATE FABRICATOR www.peddinghaus.com

STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEWWashington and Grove StreetBradley, IL 60915

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 157

Joliet, IL

Christmas & New Year are traditionally a

time for reflecting on the past as well as

looking ahead to the future. As I watch my

young children play with their newly opened

Christmas gifts, I appreciate the challenges

and opportunities 2006 brought to all of us

at the Peddinghaus family. The New Year is

promising to do just the same if not more!

The business opportunities in 2006 were fantastic as our industry continuedto strengthen and expand, bringing to all of our companies and employees a feeling of confidence about where we are headed. I’m sure that if you ownyour own company, you are experiencing this confidence and look aheadwith enthusiasm to the New Year. How quickly it seems we went from astate of too few orders to a great abundance. It is wonderful to see thisgrowth, but those of us in business know that such growth brings additionalchallenges that must be dealt with.

GrowthTo meet and exceed your expectations upon such demands, we have added100 new employees—that’s a 30% growth in 2006. Training these employeesto bring them to the level of our most trusted team members is already inprogress, to serve you and your growth demands better. I am sure many ofyou have had the opportunity to interact with these new employees whetherin person or behind the scenes. We at Peddinghaus, hope that your experi-ences with our new employees are positive. If not, we ask for your patiencewhile bringing these new employees to our standard level of excellence.

World Class Customer ServiceWe have stated and discussed in earlier issues that Peddinghaus managementand employees are dedicated to offering the best customer service in theindustry. Service support is surely the department where we have made themost significant changes to our organizational structure.

This past year we were able to bring our new state of the art “call center”facility to life. This allowed us to greatly expand our capabilities with bothadditional personnel and support infrastructure. In our continued efforts tostrengthen this department, we have recently promoted Mr. Rob Ganzer toAssistant Service Manager. In this capacity he will provide support to ourfield technicians as well as assisting Jim Bolduc in the day-to-day managingof the service department.

In addition to Rob we have added Kristene Wagner as Service Receptionist.Along with Kristene, we hired two new tier-1 telephone support personnelto assist with follow-up phone calls. We always strive to respond to yourphone service inquires in a timely manner. Moreover, we have hired twonew service technicians to improve our response time for service in the field.

The addition of these new employees has allowed us to institute a 24-hourcall back policy and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. support for all phone service inquiries.When you have taken advantage of our technical phone support, you willautomatically receive a call back inquiring as to the status of your machines.In this, I am certain you will experience an unprecedented level of efficiencyand care to all of your technical support needs.

The Future is BrightTo our current business partners, we extend a hearty “Thanks”. For those of you who have not worked with us recently or at all, we ask one thing—Give us a call. We are eager to serve you!

I wish you all the very best in your businessand personal lives for the coming year.

Anton Peddinghaus

Documents

The Steel Fabricators' Review V21 - Winter 2007