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Summary. High-mix, low-volume (HMLV) manufacturing bridges the gap between one-off prototyping and high-volume OEM production, offering flexibility, speed, and customization for businesses needing short-run manufacturing. HMLV enables frequent product changeovers, small batch sizes, and rapid design iterations, making it ideal for industries like medical technology, bioscience, and mobile hydraulics where agility is key. It supports OEMs needing specialized subassemblies, engineers...

Summary. In the face of tariff-related cost uncertainty, especially in metal fabrication, companies must strategically control costs of production without compromising quality. This blog outlines seven practical strategies for controlling costs and protecting margins. First, partnering with U.S.-based contract manufacturers helps avoid tariffs and customs delays. Second, using alternative, cost-effective materials can reduce expenses while maintaining performance. Third, design simplification...

Summary. Design for Manufacturability (DFM) is critical for achieving efficient, cost-effective results in custom metal fabrication and precision manufacturing. In the blog Design for Manufacturability: What Engineers Should Know Before Requesting a Quote, engineers will learn how to optimize their designs before reaching out for pricing. Common pitfalls—such as unclear drawings, overly tight tolerances, complex weldments, and nonstandard materials—can lead...

Summary. Lead time is more than just production time—it’s the total duration from order placement to delivery, and misunderstanding it can disrupt scheduling, cash flow, and customer satisfaction. Many assume lead times are consistent or that shorter always means more expensive, but that’s not always true. Variables like procurement delays, design revisions, and the need for turnkey services all impact...

Summary. In industries like medical and food processing, “almost perfect” isn’t acceptable. Equipment must meet stringent standards for safety, cleanliness, and aesthetics—especially at welded joints. In medical device manufacturing, welds must withstand repeated sterilization, be biocompatible, and appear flawless in patient-facing environments. Food processing equipment requires welds free of pits and gaps that could trap bacteria, while also meeting FDA...