Metal fabricators continue to embrace the automation of processes in the day-to-day running of their businesses. The value that automation brings into metal fabrication processes is somewhat difficult to quantify.

This article explores time-related factors that result from the automation of fabrication processes in a bid to highlight its value to both the client and the fabrication specialist.

Non-Value Added Time

The time taken to manufacturer a metal part/product can be divided into value-added or non-value added time. Value added time is any duration within the manufacturing period when contact between fabrication tools and the metal being worked contributes to the making of a quality finished product. Thus, non-value added time would include the following steps undertaken during prior to or during the fabrication process:

• Time taken making quotations and estimations
• The programming and maintenance of CNC machines
• Time used to produce metal parts that end up developing structural/superficial defects during fabrication e.t.c.

Non-value added time increases the overall cost of fabrication. Automation has the potential to cut down on non-value added time during metal fabrication. For example, use of CNC folding machines reduces the likelihood of structural/superficial defects on metal parts under fabrication. CNC machines fully support the weight of work pieces, thereby eliminating the need for metal workers to support the weight of metals to be folded. This eliminates the possibility of involuntary movement of the metal during fabrication. A possibility that might contribute to production of defective folds.

Turn-Around Time

The value of automation can also be seen in the impact that it has on turn around time during the manufacturing process. Given the opportunity to ask questions, many prospective clients would want to know how long they'd have to wait before the finished product is delivered.

CNC machines allow for the continuous fabrication of metal parts without the need for fatigue-related work breaks. Fabricators who use these machines can therefore enjoy longer hours of operation/production, which ultimately reduces turn around time for the delivery of finished products to the client.

A shorter turn-around time also helps to cut down on non-value added time during fabrication.

The Bottom Line

From the above discussion, the value of automation to both fabricator and client can be seen. The fabricator gets to cut down on non-value added time and clients get their finished products delivered faster.

In the end, automation will have saved both the fabricator and the client some good money.