steel fabricators review v34 - special edition

A PEDDINGHAUS PUBLICATION FOR FABRICATORS MAKING TODAY’S SKYLINE POSSIBLE

FabArc Steel

Structural Fabricationin the Fast LanePAGE 6

Kansas CityStructural Steel

LEEDing the Industryby Thriving in a “Slow” EconomyPAGE 8

Grupo Coninte

A Testament toPeddinghaus ServicePAGE 10

Making The Machine — The Advantage 2 PAGE 14

3 New Peddinghaus Machines In Operation at NASCC Show PAGES 12-19

Service Tips for Success PAGE 20

Getting to Know John Wayne DeHay PAGE 26

NASCC Event — Orlando, Florida PAGE 28

What Do You Like Best About the NASCC?

• Is it the opportunity to learn from cutting

edge presentations?

• Is it investigating the many exhibits on the

show floor?

• Is it enjoying the opportunity to renew

acquaintances with industry friends?

To me, it is all of the above – and more.

I remember attending one of the first NASCC

meetings in 1990 at the Convention Center

in Kansas City. This was one of the first

conferences where machines were exhibited

under power – a truly exciting event for those

of us who manufacture equipment. I recall

accompanying three bus loads of attendees

to visit the facility of one of our customers

(formerly Havens Steel – now Schuff Steel)

where the attendees witnessed their fabrication

processes first hand.

The North American Steel Construction

Conference has grown exponentially from year

to year. And in 2010, the NASCC welcomes

the Structures Congress, which further broadens

the scope of the industry.

Lyle Menke

LEED Certification + Gaylord Palms = First Class Fabricators

Two diverse fabricators are included in this issue.Each has a significant story that affects this year’sNASCC conference.

Kansas City Structural built a new structuralsteel fabrication facility this past year in KansasCity, Missouri. What makes it unique? It is oneof the first fabrication shop buildings that isLEED Certified and totally environmentallyfriendly. From the reusable rain water to radiantheating systems and ambient lighting, Tim Olahand the crew at Kansas City Structural werethinking green when they designed, fabricated,and erected their new shop facility.

Everyone agrees that the beautiful GaylordPalms is the perfect place for this years’ NASCCconference. What better testament to the beautyand cost efficiency of structural steel than this2,200 ton project fabricated by FabArc Steel of Oxford, AL. Huge trusses support over 4 acres of glass atrium – perfect for the“Sunshine State”.

Yes, Peddinghaus is very pleased that these twofirms use Peddinghaus equipment in their fabri-cation shops and are proud to be partners withtwo such innovative companies.

Architects See Activity Improvement

The February 2010 report from the AmericanInstitute of Architects (www.aia.org) bears someheartening news:

“Business conditions at U.S. architecture firmsshowed modest improvement in February as theAIA’s Architecture Billings Index (ABI) movedup more than two points to a reading of 44.8.However, some signs indicate that certain sectors served by architects may be seeing earlysigns of a spring thaw. Regionally, firms in the Midwest are seeing more positive signs, with index readings over 49 for the secondstraight month. No regional index has been as high as 49 since January 2008.

If current trends continue, firms in the Midwest(which includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan,Ohio, Wisconsin, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota,Missouri, Nebraska, and the Dakotas) would bethe first to emerge from the national recession indesign activity.”

Continued on page 5

2 STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW SPECIAL EDITION

Peddinghaus Corporation wishes to acknowledge the foresight

and industry acumen of the show organizers at the AISC. They

maintained the focus to continually enhance each successive conference.

Congratulations to Roger Ferch and Scott Melnick for their organizational

leadership. But also congratulations to the conference planners – Katey Preston –

and her staff which includes Elizabeth Robelet and Ashley Melvin…

WELL DONE!

Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando — A project of FabArc Steel.

Nobody Does the NASCC LikePeddinghaus! Here’s Why:Peddinghaus Corporation is keenly aware thatyou have multiple choices to spend your timeduring this event. We hope that you spend someof your time with us.

In summary, following are the highlights ofwhat Peddinghaus is offering to you at this year’sNASCC, and as you can see, it is all donePeddinghaus Style:

• After the NASCC cocktail hour on the showfloor, join us as we parade to our CustomerAppreciation Event here at the Gaylord• Unique beverages, hoers d’ouevres and

delectable dinner entrées• The unique Blue Collar Comedy styling

of Ron White• The opportunity to win a custom built

Peddinghaus motorcycle, but you have to bepresent – so fill out your invitation now!Note: I have to warn you that this event is formature audiences, but if you enjoy Blue CollarComedy, great food and beverage, and the opportunity for a “photo op” with Miss Florida,this event is for you! We will all have a great time.

Peddinghaus: At the Forefront of Technology!

• Three New Machines Seen for the First Time!n New Advantage II carbide drilln New DG 1250 high speed band sawn New Revolution 833 angle/plate detail

processor

• Tomorrow’s Software Today – see our new machine software:n Peddiflex Pro 3Dn PeddiPlate

Some People Dream of a “Perfect Fabrication World”…On another note, during the past couple ofmonths, I find myself in many discussions about fabrication equipment where one machinecan supposedly “do it all”… A lot of noise hasbeen made lately about robots taking over allfabrication processes. Since this topic is asked of me frequently, I feel it is necessary for me togive my opinion.

In a “Perfect Fabrication World”, there would be one machine – with one operator that wouldperform all shop fabrication functions:blast/saw/drill/cope and then move automaticallyto a fixture. At this point, the fixture wouldclamp the lead and trail end of the profile and rotate 360 degrees to accommodate the base plate.

Robot #1 would weld the base plate. Robot #2 would gather all of the connectionplates (wing plates, shear tabs, stiffeners, etc)and tack weld them in the exact position. Robot#1 would then go back and finish welding allplate components in the accurate location.

The fabricated section is then moved automati-cally by a crane or mobile device to the blastsystem. Upon completion, it moves withouthesitation to the automated painting system for the proper coating with the CNC dryingfurnace completing the process.

Without touching the floor, the fabricated profile is automatically marked/identified and loaded onto the waiting truck trailer forshipment to the job site.

The Best Part of our Perfect Fabrication Worldis that the General Contractor is automaticallyinvoiced – and his bank wire transfers the fundsto your account that afternoon!!

Continued on page 4

FROM THE CEO

Anton Peddinghaus

SPECIAL EDITION STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW 3

w w w. s t e e l f a b r e v i e w . c o m

Dear NASCC Attendees,Welcome to this year’s conference at the beautiful Gaylord Palms Resort here

in Orlando, FL. I’m sure you will agree with me that the staff and management

of the AISC - especially Scott Melnick and Katey Preston - have performed

another magnificent job in preparation. My personal thanks to Roger Ferch for

his input which has also contributed to the show’s success!

Choosing the Gaylord Palms as this year’s site is pure genius. This beautiful

structure is a jewel in the crown of structural steel royalty. We are pleased to

note that FabArc Steel fabricated the 2,200 tons of trusses and structural steel

members – on Peddinghaus equipment. As I often say, we are very proud of

our partners in the world of structural steel and their achievements.


FROM THE CEOContinued from page 3

Back to Reality!Peddinghaus’ reputation in the industry is quite simple – we build rugged,innovative machines that work well in typical fabrication shop conditions,and are able to be easily maintained. We guarantee customer service andsupport – via our communication call center or by on-site technician visits –in the shortest amount of time of any competitor in the industry.

Of course we are dedicated to the dream of the Perfect Fabrication Shop.But in reality, the concepts described above require multiple companies –each with their specific functions. For example, you engage a robotic com-pany, a plasma/torch supplier; a manufacturing company for the structure, arobotic specific software company, an electronics firm, a hydraulics supplier,the list is endless.

When Perfection Stops…Finger Pointing StartsThus in the construction of our Perfect Fabrication Shop, the biggest prob-lem is the age old business conundrum – Communication, Responsibility,and Service/Support. As you know, at Peddinghaus we strive for service visits within 48 hours, but in the “Perfect Shop”, this simply would nothappen as fingers would point in many different directions.

An example of this scenario was vividly portrayed to me late last year. Thiscompany had their “part of the vision” of the Perfect Fabrication Shopmachine. They were very proud, and invited me for a visit. They had sold acouple of their “solutions” for a figure far in excess of $1,000,000.

I asked them for permission to visit the customer installations for a firsthand look; they politely declined and were reluctant to even give me thecustomer names. When I asked how/when they would have a 100% func-tional system, they advised us to invest $1,800,000 and they could make ithappen. Unfortunately, not very workable, wouldn’t you say?

In conclusion, Peddinghaus does not – and will not – give up on designingand manufacturing equipment for the “Perfect Fabrication Shop”. That iswhy we staff many, many engineers with scores of patents and Research &Development awards.

You Will Never Make a Machine to Replace PeopleYes, it seems that many manufacturers want to replace human beings withrobots. But the simple fact remains that Human Beings are equipped withthe brainpower to perform complex tasks that machines will never be ableto do on their own.

In the Spring, 2008 issue of the STEEL FABRICATORS’REVIEW magazine, I floated an idea in conjunction

with the NASCC Conference in Nashville, TN. A career in structural steel fabrication leads to a wonderful, fulfilling life – isn’t that

why we all participate in it? I know that our average shop employee makes a good wage, so why don’t we start an industry wide initiative to train more

people to work in the steel fabrication industry!

Get the Media Involved!The popularity of today’s reality shows on cable channels like Discovery,History, and TLC clearly reveal the impact on young people in career selections. Until the past couple of years, did you know that being a Chef ora Carpenter or a Crab Fisherman was such a fulfilling occupation? I bet not.

Why don’t we mobilize the industry to add steel construction to that selection list? Every person on earth is dazzled by a spectacular skyline, and everyone can identify awe-inspiring structures like the Empire StateBuilding, the Golden Gate Bridge, the John Hancock Building or the Las Vegas Strip.

As an industry, let’s work together to spread the word to our young peopleabout the benefits of a life-long profession in the steel construction industry.In attendance at the NASCC, you will find the entire spectrum of careers:educators, engineers, contractors, architects, manufacturers, programmers,the list goes on.

Join us to spread the word about steel construction! Work with the AISC! Promote SteelDay 2010! Let’s take our message to our young people: Working in Steel Construction is Pretty Cool!

An NASCC Guarantee for YouI guarantee one thing to each NASCC attendee: when you visit Peddinghaus’ Booth 400, you will witness new machine tool technologies that work, are super productive, and are heavily supported by the entire Peddinghaus Team.

Take a first hand look at our new Advantage II carbide drill with toolchanger, our new high speed DG 1250 band saw, or the patentedRevolution 833 angle/plate detail system. You will be impressed with thebest in new technologies for tomorrow’s fabrication demands.

Stop by Booth 400, we will have plenty of refreshments, and

experience Peddinghaus networking hospitality for yourself.

Remember my glass is ALWAYS HALF FULL!



LYLE MENKEContinued from page 2

As we all know, the project pipeline needs tostart filling up, and the architects are the key tofuture business. This AIA report is solid datathat things may be “looking up”.

Survey Says: Global ManufacturersUpgraded Shops During Recession – Did You?

A survey of 1,300 plant engineers, plant managers and manufacturing and maintenanceprofessionals was conducted worldwide by IBM, Hannover Messe, and Plant Engineeringmagazine. What were the results? The survey says…

1. Over 60% of U.S. plant facilities and 70% of international facilities HAVE NOmaintenance strategy in place

2. More than half of the global manufacturersused the recent economic slump to upgradeequipment and employee training

What does this mean to you? It could be thatyour competitors have been quietly improvingtheir fabrication production methods with newequipment, software, and training during thistime. Many firms chose to “pull in their horns”and go into survival mode. But things areimproving, and as I learned in my high schooleconomics class, “He who hesitates is lost”…

Now is the Time to Invest

If your business is located in the USA, the Section 179 expense allowances are restoredagain up to $250,000!! That means you candeduct your purchase off your taxes – Details are inside under Industry News!

See page 11 to save $$$!

THANKYOU!

A huge Peddinghaus Thank You to our fabricator hosts for the

Peddinghaus Fabricators’ Motorcycle Tour:

n Dixie Southern Steel – Polk City, FLn Schuff Steel – Atlantic Division – Orlando, FLn Met-Con, Inc. – Cocoa, FL


Q. Why do you like Peddinghaus as your business partner?

A. I like doing business face to face, andPeddinghaus always comes here to visit –whether it’s good or bad – we sit down and talk. I like the way they “Man Up” to any issue”.

Steve Vinyard

President, FabArc Steel, Oxford, AL

A visit to Oxford Alabama means only onething to NASCAR racing fans – the famedTalladega Motor Speedway is only a few shortmiles away. Talladega is where speed is King inthe automotive world. At FabArc Steel, theworld of automobiles and structural steel fabri-cation come together.

Why? FabArc Steel is a world class steel fabrica-tor, who use Peddinghaus equipment to deliverthe most complex fabrications ahead of scheduleto their customers. Additionally, one of their topindustrial markets has been the automotiveindustry: they have fabricated steel for multipleautomobile manufacturing facilities.

When You Carve Out a Market Niche –Keep CuttingFabArc has a long history of providing superiorfabrication to many market areas. These includeindustrial, commercial, manufacturing, bridges, –any area where AISC certified fabrication is needed.When the automotive world began exploring the Southeastern USA for new manufacturing facilities, they knew they had an expert in FabArc Steel.

FabArc’s resume of providing steelwork forindustrial automotive facilities reads like a“Who’s Who” of the car world for the pastdecade:

• BMW Greenville/Spartanburg SC• Honda Lincoln, AL & Tallapoosa, GA• Hyundai Montgomery, AL• KIA West Point, GA• Mercedes Tuscaloosa, AL• Nissan Smyrna, TN & Decherd, TN• Toyota Hunstville, AL• Volkswagen Chattanooga, TN

Don’t get us wrong, FabArc’s work isn’t limitedto automotive factories. They have fabricatedover 300 medical related projects – ranging fromcomplete hospitals to medical centers to traumaunits to university buildings.

Some other notable jobs for this fabricatorinclude the largest cement processing facility in North America at the Holcim CementCompany in St. Genevieve, MO.

By the way, FabArc also fabricated thePresidential Helicopter Hanger located in Pax River, MD, near Washington, DC. Some cool stuff.

What’s on the books now? In fabrication now is the new Boeing Aircraftmanufacturing facility in North Charleston, SCwhere the new ultramodern “Boeing Dreamliner”passenger plane will be manufactured.

The Global Foundaries electronic microchipfacility in Malta, NY is also a FabArc project in process.

Editors’ Note: When you are in Orlando, take a ride on the Rock ‘n Roller Coaster – also fabricated by FabArc.

“We Couldn’t Have Done It WithoutPeddinghaus”

Some comments from Steve Vinyard, President,concerning Peddinghaus.

Steve Vinyard, President (L) and Tony Pugh, Executive Vice Presidentof FabArc Steel, Oxford, AL.

FABARC STEEL

Structural Fabrication in the Fast Lane

Boeing Corporation has employed FabArc to build the manufacturing facility for their new “Dreamliner model aircraft”… to accommodate thishuge airliner, some trusses are 600 feet long and weigh up to 400 tons.

FabArc Steel started in 1979 with 3 employees welding under a tarpaulin at this current site in Oxford, AL.

Oktoberfest 1986 in Bradley, IL was when FabArc invested in theirfirst Peddinghaus machine – an Anglemaster AFPS 623.

The Peddinghaus 1250 saw/PCD drill tandem installation meets theheaviest production demand, and is a versatile addition to FabArc’sshop production.

For plate/angle fabrication, the Peddinghaus 823 Anglemaster meetsFabArc’s requirements for shop detail – quickly and accurately.

Mr. Buddy Carden, Plant Manager in the West Shop, relies onPeddinghaus to meet any project with a “hot deadline”.


Peddinghaus is the perfect partner for FabArc formany reasons:• Strong, Innovative equipment• Extraordinary Service and Support• Always there when you need them – a partner you

can depend on

We have sixteen Peddinghaus machines (4 drills, 4 saws, 3 plate machines, 2 Anglemasters, and anABCM 1250 coper.) The oldest has been in service for20 + years.

We tackle huge fabrications projects with confidencebecause our Peddinghaus machines are always running to meet the tightest of deadlines. We get ajob from our detailers, download it and start fabricating. The whole process is fast and efficient.

“We have capacity for 40,000 tons per year – OnlyPeddinghaus can provide that – solid machines thatwork and solid support from people who care”

FabArc is AISC Certified FabArc is AISC certified representing the various fields of expertise that they bring to a structural steel project. Some of their certifications include:

• Standard for Steel Building Structures• Simple Steel Bridges• Fracture Critical Endorsement• Sophisticated Paint Coating Endorsement –

Covered

The AISC certification is routinely updated withregular inspections.

A True Oktoberfest Story from 1986In 1986, the three original principals at FabArc –Gene Heathcock, David Pugh, and Cary Lewis –visited the Peddinghaus Oktoberfest in Bradley,IL. With no CNC equipment, this was theirchance to explore automated fabrication

technology. “It gave us a chance to meet all thePeddinghaus people ‘face to face’, as well”.

They had their eye on a new Anglemaster –because all of their clip and bracing angles weredone manually. Most importantly, they had ajob in hand for a new textile mill, and it wouldpay off handsomely.

Well, the mill job got put on hold, but Gene, David, and Cary proceeded with theAnglemaster purchase anyway.

“Best decision we ever made! The machine paid foritself many times over, and we then learned thefuture of fabrication lay with automated equipment!”

Some Textbook Advice from 30 yearVeterans in Steel Construction:1. You need good people to succeed:We are very proud of our 290 employees andthe contributions that each has made to our success. They are hardworking and resourceful.

“On the big Holcim Cement job, we had to speciallyorder a huge W14x503 lb/ft rolled section fromEurope. It received some damage during the on-siteerection process and was rendered useless. Becauseof the tight schedule, we had 3 days to find a solution.Oh yes, it was a Friday afternoon when it happened…”

We spoke to our engineers and shop people and cameup with a plan. The guys fabricated a totally new girderbeam in Oxford, and trucked it overnight to St.Genevieve, MO. It was in place on Tuesday morning tomeet the deadline.”

Only dedicated, experienced people can makethose things happen.

2. Support new technology in your firmWe learned about technology when we boughtour first Anglemaster from Peddinghaus. It isfast and accurate. You can loose money fastwhen things don’t fit-up properly, especially atthe erection site.

Continued on page 11

The Peddinghaus ABCM 1250 is one of sixteen (16) Peddinghaus machines installed at FabArc… “automated coping of beams has increased ourproductivity tenfold…”



KANSAS CITY STRUCTURAL STEEL – KANSAS CITY, MO

LEEDing the Industry ByThriving In A Slow Economy

Tim Olah of Kansas City Structural Steel is your quintessential ironworker.Having struck out on his own in 1995 after ten years of being a union iron-worker; Tim has always had a little “steel in his blood”. A self proclaimed“poor kid from Independence” Tim with the help of his brother Chris grewKansas City Structural Steel from the ground up into the industry leadingfabricator it is today – not to mention, the very first LEED Gold Certifiedstructural steel fabricator in the world.

The group at KC Structural is a tight-knit group of true experts. From the team of detailers and administrators in the front office to the painters,welders, and machine operators that work in the shop “passionate” is definitely a way to describe the group. They are the kind of people that giveyou the feeling that no matter what they set out to do, they find a way to be good at it.

New Building, New Machines, Nothing But PeddinghausMuch like many fabricators at the end of the last decade the team at KCStructural outgrew their original shop space in 2008. Their old facility wasequipped with a wide array of equipment from a multitude of differentmanufacturers including: cold saws, punch lines, a plate punch/plasma system, homemade cambering machine and much more.

To ensure a smooth transition from old building to new Tim, Chris, and theteam at KC Structural knew that it was about time to replace much of theexisting equipment. Once the new building across the street was completeda whole set of new equipment was installed and the older machines were thelast items to be moved – never missing a beat in production.

When Tim and his team chose the new equipment they had examinedmany options but mainly went off of their own personal experiences –

“We’ve tried all of the major manufacturers of equipment including Peddinghaus. I knew how the companies treated their customers and how the machines worked so I had a good idea of what I was looking for when I bought the new equipment;when it came to software we definitely preferred the Peddinghaus' because it's easyto learn and simple to use. We've had the software on multiple machines and ouremployees have never had any issues picking up on how to use it. If it’s one thing I’velearned – to be the best you have to buy the best. In the end we chose Peddinghaus."

The PCD 1100 drill line has proven to be a smart choice for this LEED certified, environmentally consciousfabricator.

The skilled workers at Kansas City Structural enjoy a safer, greener work environment due to low fumeemitting weld wire, and paint.

“Here we really don’t keep track of titles, we’re all here to get the job done right and that’s all that matters.We are a team and we work together for a common goal. I have some of the best workers in the industry.”

– Tim Olah

SPRING 2010 STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW 9SPECIAL EDITION STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW 9

In KC Structural’s new building they installed the PCD-1100/3B multi-spindle drill line in tandem with a DG-1100 double miter band saw.

“The PCD 1100/3B has been a good machine to us at KC Structural. We can get 64 parts through that machine in only 1 shift. Now that’s impressive!”

Having added a BDL-1250/9B drill line and 1250 straight cut band saw to accommodate their heaviest sections the boys in Kansas City are ready totackle any project that comes their way.

Where Does KC Structural Stand in Today's World of Fabrication?Covering a wide array of projects Kansas City Structural has scarcely felt theeconomic slowdown.

“Our shop is full, our backlog is long, and we see no end in sight.”

Currently processing stadiums, banks, military complexes, and airport hangers, KC Structural relies on their Peddinghaus equipment to meet tightdeadlines and compete in today's aggressive marketplace.

One recent industry trend has a lot of fabricators looking to put slots intheir beam profiles. Having recently replaced two beam punch lines withdrills it was interesting to hear Tim’s take on slots in beams –

“We don’t use slots in beams – our parts are designed to fit! Although all of our connections are bolted connections (they rarely weld moment connections) there aretoo many opportunities to use slots in all of your detail components to worry aboutputting slots in beams. Round holes are the only holes we use and we stand by ourlevel of accuracy and quality. Our drilled holes have never let us down.”

The Structural Steel Industry’s First LEED GOLD RATED FABRICATORPossibly the most unique thing about Kansas City Structural is their newbuilding – a completely green facility designed to be the most ecologicallysound manufacturing environment possible.

For those not familiar with the LEED rating system it is the ecological certi-fication of a facility that takes into account many aspects of operation – howmuch water is used, how efficiently heat is generated, how much electricityis utilized, everything that has an effect on the environment.

The resident LEED Expert, Tab White, led the way for creating a greenerfacility at KC Structural. Everything within the new facility takes MotherNature into account. From the composting toilets that may surprise a first time visitor and the radiant heat flooring in the shop that keeps the employees at KC structural comfortable 12 months out of the year, down to the special low residue low fume emitting welding wire used.

Is this the secret to KC Structural’s success? Well, it certainly isn’t the onlyreason, but it sure doesn’t hurt according to Tim –

“We constantly have visitors and potential customers coming here to see our facilities.Just the other day we had 100 visitors with the local builders association here to seeour shop, our machines, and our capabilities. People are definitely taking notice.”

Kansas City Structural – A Solid Business Partner in Today’s MarketplaceSamuel Goldwyn once said “The harder I work the luckier I get.” Tim,Chris and their team of experts are proof that hard work truly does pay off.Boasting a sizeable backlog, powerful machinery, skilled employees, and satisfied customers the ecologically minded mixture of quality and servicehas proven to be a combination for success.

For more information on Kansas City Structural Steel visitwww.kcstructural.com.

2 Peddinghaus drill and saw tandem systems are the focal point of KC Structural’s production. The eco-friendly vegetable oil based minimum quantity lubrication system on the 1100DG band saw is theperfect fit for this environmentally conscious fabricator.

There are more than enough opportunities to putslots in your detail. KC Structural sticks to roundholes in beams.

A floor height loading area makes loading trucksan easier operation for employees and truckersalike.

Even while running full production you can see that the shop at KC Structural doesn’t have the hazy environment caused by weld smoke and paint vapor commonly seen in other enclosed shops.



Dear Mr. Sharp,

It has been on my mind since the installation of our Peddinghaus machinery was completed a fewweeks ago to send this e-mail. We run a small operation in Southern Mexico of 2,000 tons/year that weexpect to grow to 5,000 tons/year over the next four years. We are based in a region where industryitself is practically still wearing diapers, labor education levels are very low with low expectations for achange and local vendor support is non-existent. We practically need to bring even screws from otherparts of Mexico, yet we decided on going from a manual labor intensive operation onto a CNC andautomated environment in a record time of three months, day 1 being my visit to Chicago’s fabtech inNovember and day 90 when we needed to have all equipment successfully installed, up and running,pieces produced with this equipment shipped to the client and first columns erected on site by mid-February (CNC equipment included purchase and installation of: 1 plasma cutting table, 2 submergedarc welding machines, 1 beam line with band saw and 1 automated hole puncher). Needless to say onlythree of our operators were not actually afraid of working with computers. After attending Fabtech andhaving visited your facility in Bradley back in November, and having a lot of questions answered by JoseCavazos and Adrian Nuño we came to the conclusion that with our background Peddinghaus was thesmart choice for us due to the service offered and tech support provided and that a FPD 1120 and atandem PCD 1100 and 1100 DG were the way to go.

I understand this machinery traveled more than 5,000 kms by truck and received some damage inroute. I could see this as being part of a problem, but I knew the Peddinghaus installation team wouldassist. I then made a few calls to our vendor ACAT’s Adrian Nuño and to your tech support in Mexico,Manuel Salinas, both of them quickly reassured me of Peddinghaus’ commitment to quality and serviceand how everything would be checked, adjusted and replaced as needed.

The FPD 1120 required work from your team both in our facility and from tech support in Bradley.This issue kept pushing back the date for the installation on the PCD-1100 and the 1100-DG. I was beginning to worry because of the installation delay which affected the production scheduleaccordingly. My concerns at this point were at their highest peak. Did I make a good decision buyingthis machinery? Will it do the work I was told? Will they be able to get rid of all the bugs? Will I meet my client’s schedule?

I can not tell you how glad and confident it made me when Peddinghaus sent additional installationtechnicians. The minute Robert Liverant set foot on our production floor he grabbed this bull by thehorns and made things happen. His experience and insight accelerated the installation process, hechecked all the work done up until this point, fixed what was wrong, made sure all the faulty parts wereproperly replaced and continued to train our operators and our engineering team. He was very thor-ough on making sure not only that the machinery run smoothly and that our employees would knowhow to use it, but specially that they know what to do when things go wrong, and this is the part that Iappreciate the most since this is why we decided to buy Peddinghaus equipment.

Why did I not send this e-mail before? Because I wanted to see how things would work once Roberthad departed from Chiapas. So far we have had some issues as I expected, however our engineeringteam has found its way through thanks to the proper training they received and when things have gotten tough they have received great service and support from Manuel Salinas and Chip Moore. My concerns have cleared and I am very confident that the decision we made was right, we look atPeddinghaus not only as a provider of the technology required for our future growth but more importantly as a partner in Grupo CONINTE’s journey. Please pass along my congratulations to everyone involved in this sale: from the sales department for being clear and helping us design a line that was right for our needs, to your production department for building strong and reliable equipment, to your tech support team and especially to Robert Liverant for a job well done!!!

Best regards,

Ing. Rodrigo López MartínDirector Estructuras MetálicasGrupo CONINTE14 Pte Sur #115 2° PisoTuxtla Gtz, Chiapas

Editor’s Note:Peddinghaus Corporation receives a quantity of emailcorrespondence concerning our products, our people,and business in general.

Peddinghaus President, Mr. Michael Sharp, would like to share this recent email with you from one of our customers located in Chiapas province in farsouthern Mexico. It accurately depicts the experience(and thought process) of fabricators making their initial purchase of CNC equipment.

A Customer Writes to Peddinghaus…

The Peddinghaus equipment at Grupo Coninte in Mexico consists of a PCD 1000 structural drill, DG 1100 miter band saw, and an FPD 1120 plate punch/drill processing system.

The first project (Cafesca) that was processed on the newPeddinghaus equipment at Grupo Coninte: “Mag drills and torcheswould never have pulled it off!” says Mr. Martin.

(L–R) Mr. Rodrigo Lopez Martin, Director Estructuras Metalicas, Mr. Arutro Lopez Chavarria, and Mr. Marcos Santiago Martinez of Grupo Coninte, S.A. de C.V. in Chiapas Province in far southern Mexico.


FABARC STEELContinued from page 7

Learning about new equipment, new software, new shop techniques keepsyou competitive – even in today’s crazy economy.

3. Stick to your core business practicesIf you specialize in certain type of fabrication, use that to your advantage;especially in a tough market. But don’t box yourself in – good fabricationpractices always lead to projects in peripheral markets. That helps your business grow.

What Two Items Have Had the Biggest Impact on the Industry in Your 30 years?• The evolution of automated equipment for steel fabrication

n We marvel at how Peddinghaus engineers continually create new equipment that has improved our fabrication practices;

n Look back at the past 30 years – from manual technology to nano technology

• The electronic transfer of informationn We now email project drawings around the world and have them

finished and delivered in hours, not days.

Accelerate Your FabricationJust like in NASCAR, to get to the Winner’s Circle in the Steel Construction Cup, you need to maintain maximum speedfor the entire distance. For that you need ahigh quality, durable piece of equipment. You also need the latest technology for a competitive edge and a solid pit crew that is there to meet every issue during the race.

FabArc is a premier fabricator in NorthAmerica, and they have a good partner in Peddinghaus – both ready to compete for steel construction.


I N D U S T R Y N E W S – S E C T I O N 1 7 9

Good News for Customers in USA!!Section 179 rates are BACK!! With the signing of the HIRE jobs inWashington DC, the Section 179 expense allowance is back up to$250,000!!!

What Does This Mean for You? • On 1/1/2010, the cap was reduced to $134,000 by the ARRA

(American Recovery & Reinvestment Act)• The recent bill signing raised it to $250,000 – an additional $116,000

of potential saving for your customer!

Does This Apply to New and Remanufactured Machinery As Well?Absolutely! New and remanufactured machinery is included.

How Long Does it Last?Machines must be ordered – and installed – by December 31, 2010

What If I Postpone My Purchase Decision Until 2011? Under current tax law, Section 179 will reduce to only $25,000

Take advantage now and contact Peddinghaus for details! Remember,you may need to check with your CPA to see if you are eligible.

12 STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW SPRING 201012 STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW SPECIAL EDITION

ADVANTAGE 2

ONBOARD HYDRAULIC UNIT• The footprint of the ADVANTAGE 2

is further minimized by using an onboard hydraulic unit.

• The limited use of hydraulics on the ADVANTAGE 2 drill line allow for a lighter and smaller 3 HP (2.2 kW) power unit than on previous versions of the PCD-1100 drill series.

ROLLERMEASUREMENT MATERIAL HANDLING• Roller measurement with automatic height

control makes for paramount accuracy andunmatched versatility.

• Start your conveyors outside unprotected in anyclimate to free shop space for other processessuch as welding and fit-up.

MULTI-AXIS CARBIDE SCRIBING• An available scribing tool is placed

into the automatic tool changer andselected by the machine when scribing is used in a program.

• The ADVANTAGE 2 is capable of scrib-ing any character or shape in multi-ple orientations and depths.

• Scribing is possible in each of thethree spindle axes.

The original Advantage drill line was introduced for the very first time at the NASCC

in San Antonio in 2005, where it turned heads and changed how fabricators of all

sizes viewed the opportunities of automation. Today, over 200 PCD-1100 drill lines

later, the next generation of this industry benchmark is ready to emerge. The

Advantage 2 drill line will be on display at the 2010 NASCC and Structures congress

for the first time before a live audience. A diverse mix of technology both new and

familiar to the Peddinghaus lineup of machinery was utilized in the development of

this game changing piece of equipment.

DUAL HORIZONTAL CLAMPS

• The independently operating horizontalclamps on the ADTANTAGE 2 allow for more direct and rigid clamping thanever before.

NEW VERTICAL HOLD DOWN DESIGN

• The new vertical hold downs on theADVANTAGE 2 drill line are designed tofirmly hold thin flanges rigid for drillingwith carbide tipped tooling and eliminateunwanted vibration.


ADVANTAGE 2 MATERIAL CAPACITIESINCH METRIC

Maximum Profile Width 44" 1100mmMaximum Profile Height 18" 460mmNumber of Spindles 3 Drill Heads each with a Single Spindle

and 5 Station Automatic Tool ChangerSpindle Horse Power 25 Hp (S6-40%) 18.5 kW (S6-40%)Maximum Spindle Speed 2250 rpm 2250 rpmSignoscript Part Marking and Layout Scribing Carbide Marking Tools Available for Each Spindle Axis

POWERFUL SIEMENS SPINDLE MOTORS• High Speed 25 HP / 18.6 kW

Siemens spindle specificmotors power each of the drill spindles of theADVANTAGE 2.

• The direct drive mechanismof each motor allows fordrilling at break-neckspeeds of up to 2500 RPM.

THROUGH THE TOOL MINIMUM QUANTITY LUBRICATION SYSTEM• Ecologically friendly minimum quantity lubrication is implemented on

the new ADVANTAGE 2 drill line.• This vegetable oil based lubricant can utilize as little as 5% solution

to 95% air when drilling. Parts come off the machine nearly dry andready for the next operation whether it is welding or painting withoutthe need for excessive cleanup operations.

5 STATION TOOL CHANGERS• Each of the three spindle axes on the

ADVANTAGE 2 come fully equipped with 5 station automatic tool changers.

• Automatic tool changing on the ADVANTAGE 2minimizes the need to manually switch toolsizes or enter the machine operating area.

BEAMS CHANNEL SQUARE TUBING ANGLE FLAT STOCK


FIXED LEAD SCREW SPINDLE MOTION

• Siemens servo motors paired with arobust fixed led screw make for a power-ful combination on the ADVANTAGE 2

• Rotating positioning nuts on each of thespindles are the source of movement foreach spindle axis.


MAKING THE MACHINE:

The ADVANTAGE 2How is a Peddinghaus machine developed? If you have attended the NASCC before you may have

seen finished products performing many functions and using a wide array of features– but where

did these ideas come from?

What does it take to create a Peddinghaus machine? Let’s take a trip through the design and

production process with the latest Peddinghaus innovation – THE ADVANTAGE 2 DRILL LINE. You

might be surprised at what went into the development of this latest piece innovation in fabrica-

tion technology.

THE CONCEPT

Where do ideas come from at Peddinghaus? Sometimes they are the brain-child of the Peddinghaus Research and Development team and sometimesthey are a modified solution to an age old problem. The Advantage 2 drillline takes it one step further – the concept of the ADVANTAGE 2 DRILLLINE came from none other than Peddinghaus Customers.

Long before announcing their plans to design a new drill line Peddinghauskept their eyes and ears open to the needs of Peddinghaus users all over theglobe.

Peddinghaus representatives from around the world met at the beginning ofthe design process to create a “wish list” of features that help users in theirterritory. All parts of the world were represented from the USA, to Europe,to Russia, to Latin America. The wish list included a smaller footprint, environmentally friendly features, the versatility to use carbide & twist drilltooling, and affordability.

THE DEVELOPMENTAfter the sales, customer service, andengineering staff had alldecided on the list offeatures for the newmachine Peddinghaus’“Drill Group” ofEngineers from both

the USA and Germany developed the ADVANTAGE 2 design. The twooffices worked together closely to ensure the machine was designed with aglobal market in mind. Months of development were invested into everyaspect of the machine ensuring that quality was never compromised.

THE INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERSOnce the mechanicaland electrical designconcept was finalizedthe ideas in the Solidworks model were sentto Peddinghaus’Industrial Engineeringdepartment to be programmed for themachine shop.

At this stage modifica-tions are made thatensure efficient assemblyand creation of the partsinvolved. Every singlepiece that makes aPeddinghaus machine isreviewed to find ways to reduce manufacturing costs before it is created inthe machine shop

MACHINING THE PARTSAfter the IndustrialEngineers create theprograms for the indi-vidual machine partsthey are run inPeddinghaus’ machineshop on a variety ofprecision machine tools.Prototype parts such ason the Advantage 2 areexamined closely andgiven extra care to ensure they pass rigid inspection requirements

QUALITY CONTROLThe next step in the creation processis in the quality control department.All machined parts are inspected inorder to meet stringent quality crite-ria. A Peddinghaus Quality Controltechnician will use precision instru-ments to determine if the part isacceptable by Peddinghaus standards.If the part requires welding it is thentaken to our fabrication facilities.


WELDING AND FABRICATIONWhen parts are receivedat the fabrication shopthey are assembled andwelded by a team ofAWS certified weldingexperts. Once the components for theADVANTAGE 2 arewelded they are onceagain inspected to verifythat they meet qualitystandards and accuracy.

The next step is off to the assembly andpainting facilities.

PAINTING OF THE PARTSAfter passing qualitycontrol at the weld shopparts are sent to one ofthree paint boothswhere they receive acoat of primer and twocoats of their distinctivePeddinghaus Green andOrange paint.

ASSEMBLY

Once the machine project is called to the assembly floor all parts are compiled and a team of trained Peddinghaus machine tool experts begin the building process.

The assembly of the new machine is closely monitored by the mechanical,and electrical engineering staff throughout the production process. Thisensures a smooth build of the new machine.

FINAL ENGINEERING OF THE NEW MACHINEAs assembly nears completion the Engineering staff takes over again to test and refine electrical components, control logic, and programming software of the new machine.

Extensive testing of alloperations of themachine is undergoneexamining longevity andconsistency of all partsand operations.Thousands of holes aredrilled before the conceptis released to the marketensuring that every drill released – prototype or not -– meets stringent qualitystandards. Peddinghaus prides themselves on releasing new machines onlyafter they have been thoroughly examined and perfected.

FINAL CHECKOUTWhen the engineershave completed theirtesting and final modifi-cations of the prototypea thorough inspectionof the machine occurs.An 8 hour “dry cycle” of the machine is imple-mented to simulate a heavy production situation and test if anyparts could potentiallyloosen after installation. Accuracy of the machine as well as repetition of that accuracy is also tested in detail before the machine is signed off to beshipped. The machine is ready to be installed and run production when itleaves the shop floor in Bradley.

SHIPMENT TO CUSTOMERAfter passing quality standards and checkout protocol the machine is released and packed for shipment to its final destination.

AFTER SALE SERVICE AND SUPPORTJust like all other Peddinghaus Machines the new ADVANTAGE 2 drill line comes with a full one year warranty on parts and labor. Long after the machine has left Peddinghaus’ facility in Bradley, ILPeddinghaus stands behind the design and manufacture of the machine.Peddinghaus offers remote web diagnostics, and the most powerful fieldservice workforce in the industry to ensure that machines are running for customers when they need it.



DG1250 BAND SAWThe all new DG1250 band saw is designed to offer

unmatched mitering capability and high speed cutting

versatility to the modern steel fabricator. Further

eliminating the band saw bottleneck the DG1250

band saw utilizes a robust 20 HP / 14.5 kW blade

motor, advanced material frictionless support system,

and rugged Peddicat blade with minimum quantity

lubrication system. The DG1250 is the perfect stand

alone or tandem combination band saw for any metal

cutting application.

POWERFUL 20 HP / 14.5 KW BLADE MOTOR

• The robust design of the DG1250 band saw is emphasized by the powerful 20HP / 14.5 kW blade motor.

• Cutting speeds on the DG1250 reach as fast as 500 FPM / 150 MPM.

MINIMUM QUANTITY LUBRICATION SYSTEM

• Water based flood coolant is a thing of the past on the DG1250 band saw. By using the vegetable oil basedecologically friendly lubricant “Peddicool”, nearly drylubrication is achieved. A mixture of 95% air and 5%lubricant is commonly used minimizing the need for costly additional cleanup and maintenance processes.

FRICTIONLESS MATERIAL TRANSPORT

• The horizontal clamps on the DG1250 double miter bandsaw open to allow the material to move freely withoutdragging or wearing fixed parts of the saw system.

AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING SUPPORT ROLLERS

• The automatically adjusting support rollers on theDG1250 band saw allow for superior material supporteven on shorter sections being processed.

• The support rollers automatically move in conjunctionwith the saw head to allow for mitering.

PROCESS THE LARGEST PROFILES

• The DG1250 Band Saw is capable of cutting sections aslarge as 50" / 1250 mm wide with ease.

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SPRING 2010 STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW 17SPECIAL EDITION STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW 17


SIMPLE INTEGRATION IN TANDEM WITH DRILL LINE SYSTEMS

• To increase tonnage and save on floor space fabricatorscommonly place their drill line in tandem with a band saw.

• The drill line takes on the task of automatically measuring the material to be cut and controls the bandsaw with the Siemens CNC control panel. Semi-automaticsawing of the profile is still available when in tandem witha drill line.

• A DG1250 double miter band saw is the perfect complement to the BDL 1250 drill line series of machines.

WIDE MITERING CAPACITY• The DG1250 band saw is fully capable of mitering 60º

and 45º in both the right hand and left hand directionsfor maximum cutting versatility.

DG 1250 BAND SAW SPECIFICATIONSMAXIMUM PROFILE INCH METRIC30° Left 21" x 20" 550mm x 520mm

or 20" diameter 520mm45° Left 31" x 20" 800mm x 520mm

or 22" diameter 560mm90° 49" x 20" 1250mm x 520mm

or 24" diameter 620mm45° Right 31" x 20" 800mm x 520mm

or 22" diameter 560mm30° Right 21" x 20" 550mm x 520mm

or 20" diameter 520mmDrive Motor 20 HP 14.5 kWSaw Blade 394" x 2.64" x 0.063" 10000mm x 67mm x 1.6mmSpeed 49 - 492 ft/min 15 - 150m/min


THE REVOLUTION The patented Peddinghaus AFCPS-833 REVOLUTION offers new and groundbreaking technology for the fabrication

of angle, channel, and plate components. Designed to be the perfect multifunctional detail machine for fabricators

of all sizes the REVOLUTION can process a large amount of universal plate and angle parts for familiar structural

projects. The REVOLUTION is commonly capable of running around 90% of plate and angle detail parts for projects

such as schools, office complexes, industrial pipe racks, and more. The AFCPS-833 is not just an Angle Line, it’s a

REVOLUTION!

PRECISE POSITIONING USING PEDDINGHAUSROLLER MEASUREMENT

• The rugged measuring system on the 833 utilizes a set of precision encoders attached to the drive rollers tomeasure material travel.

• Roller measurement eliminates the time consuming andcumbersome use of loading a measuring truck.

• The elimination of a rack and pinion driven measuringsystem allows material to be transferred from both sidesof conveyor and is not limited by stock length.

INNOVATIVE ROTATING PUNCH PRESS FOR SUPREME VERSATILITY

• The unique rotation of the punch press is driven by twohydraulic cylinders for unmatched efficiency.

• Rotating of the cylinder is easily comparable to the X-axis advancement of material in a dual press Angle line.

• The rotation of the press allows for part stamping onBOTH legs of angle.

TRIPLE TOOL PUNCHING AND SIGOPLATE HARDSTAMPING MARKER

• A Single 144 ton (130 Metric ton) punch press rotates toprocess both near and far legs of angle – eliminating the X-axismotion required in standard angle lines to process holes oneach leg of material.

• Three tooling stations– eliminates unnecessary tool change inparts with multiple hole sizes.

• Tool change is simplified when needed as the rotating punchpress returns to a vertical 0º “home position” for easy access tothe punch assembly.

• The all new SignoPlate hard stamping system allows for the useof 44 different characters and is capable of stamping on eitherleg of angle.

UNMATCHED CLAMPING FOR A RIGID WORKPIECE THROUGHOUT PRODUCTION

• 5 entry and 5 exit clamps keep the work piece rigidthroughout production. This quality clamping system iscritical to tooling life and overall accuracy.


AVAILABLE CNC AND PC WORKSTATION TOACCOMMODATE ANY PRODUCTION DEMAND• The CNC workstation and access to a full PC workstation

is granted on the AFCPS-833 REVOLUTION for maximumversatility.

SINGLE OR DOUBLE CUT SHEAR TOOLING FORA WIDE ARRAY OF PROFILE SIZES

• The AFCPS-833 REVOLUTION boasts a 169 ton (153Metric ton) shear that is available with both single anddouble cut tooling.

• Single cut tooling allows for shearing without the creation of a shear “slug”.

• Double cut tooling is capable of processing larger profile sizes at the allocated tonnage with a cleaner cut quality.

POWERFUL SHEAR AND PUNCH PRESS DESIGN FOR DIRECT PRESSURE AND UNPARALELLED SHOCK ABSORPTION • The design of the punch and shear press on the AFCPS-833 REVOLUTION absorbs shock by using four individual high tension

springs. When compared to rigid c-frame punches on traditional angle lines, the REVOLUTION press mechanism is unmatched for shock absorption especially on high tensile materials.

THE REVOLUTION - AFCPS-833/A SPECIFICATIONSMATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS INCH METRICMaximum Angle Capacity 8 x 8 x 1" 200 x 200x 25mmMaximum Flat Stock Capacity 12 x 1" 300 x 25mmAcceptable Channel Sizes 12" wide maximum 300mm wide maximumPUNCH SPECIFICATIONS INCH METRICNumber of Punches 3 Sizes 3 SizesCapacity 144 Tons 130 Metric TonsMaximum Hole Size 1-1/2" 38mmCapable of punching using 1, 2, or 3 punch stations in a single stroke simultaneously

SIGNOPLATE MARKING SYSTEM INCH METRICNumber of Characters 44 Characters 44 CharactersSHEAR CAPACITIES INCH METRIC

Shear Style Single or Double Cut Single or Double Cut

Capacity 169 Tons 153 Tons


Many maintenance and operations people have

always battled the question of when is the proper

time to change consumables – or a bigger issue is

when problems develop with any of the consumable

components.

Thanks to our friends at Hypertherm, Inc., Hanover, NH,

we have depicted a few pertinent service tips on

“Troubleshooting Plasma Cutting Consumables” to

assist you when your cut quality is starting to deteriorate

or consumable life decreases. These ten examples

will give you a “head start” on troubleshooting these

typical problems.

As you know, we poll our readers on topics they would

like to see in each issue of the STEEL FABRICATORS’

REVIEW magazine. One of the most requested responses

was “How about some service tips or ideas for our

maintenance and operations people?”

We are pleased to introduce the latest section of the SFR

to you – “Service Tips for Success”. This new feature will

be in two separate sections for you:

1. A section from our Service and Training departments on

topics to assist you in normal daily activities

2. A “Maintenance Mailbag” where you can email the

SFR directly with questions that will be answered in

the next magazine.

EMAIL your questions to [email protected]

FAX your question to 815. 937. 4003 or give us a

CALL at 815. 937. 3800

We look forward to your feedback, and answering your

questions in future editions!

PROBLEM Nozzle orifice is distorted or enlarged. Externalface of nozzle shows depressionsurrounding orifice.

What is causing it?• Excessive pilot arcing

SOLUTION• Verify proper pierce height• Ensure good contact between the plate being cut and work

cable

PROBLEM A severe gouge in thenozzle may be visible near theorifice. Usually poor cut quality isevident shortly after replacingconsumables.

What is causing it?• Low plasma gas flow

SOLUTION• Verify proper gas flows• Inspect all gas lines & fittings for leaks• Verify that no gas lines are pinched or kinked

PROBLEM Internal side of thenozzle shows pitting or erosion ofthe copper, usually in a swirlingpattern. External face of nozzlemay also show some erosion ofcopper.

What is causing it?• Double arcing or piercing too close to the plate

SOLUTION• Verify proper height• Verify proper settings for gas flows• Verify machine motion delay is not too long

PROBLEM Nozzle orifice isenlarged or distorted. Externalface of nozzle shows depressionsurrounding orifice.

What is causing it?• Low injection flow

SOLUTION• Verify proper pierce height• Ensure good contact

PROBLEM Excessive build-up ofmaterial being cut is present andattached to the shield

What is causing it?• Double-arcing or piercing too

close to the plate

SOLUTION• Verify proper pierce height• Verify proper cut speed & gas flows• Verify that the pierce delay is not too long

PROBLEM Darkened area aroundthe internal region of the orifice,also visible on exterior face,shows an even erosion of the copper surrounding the orifice.

What is causing it?• Plasma gas restriction

SOLUTION• Verify proper gas flows• Verify that no gas lines are pinched or kinked

PROBLEM The torch displays a pitted current ring or nozzle seat.

What is causing it?• Dirty torch or consumables

SOLUTION• Always clean torch when changing consumables• Ensure that new consumables are clean• Ensure the retaining cap is properly tightened

PROBLEM This torch displays signsof plasma gas starvation. The internal Vespel is burned and theworst damage is directed toward theplasma gas inlet to the torch body.

What is causing it?• Insufficient gas flow

SOLUTION• Verify proper gas settings at gas console• Check for flow restriction in gas system or supply

PROBLEM Nozzle orifice is distorted or enlarged at tip. Orificemay be tapered from the outsidetoward the inside of the nozzle.

What is causing it?• Excessive pilot arcing

SOLUTION• Verify proper pierce height• Ensure good contact

Help! When Should I Change My Plasma Consumables?SERVICE TIPS FOR SUCCESS…


WEST COAST IRON: TECHNOLOGY LEADERWest Coast Iron is a leader in fabrication technologies for the west coast steel construction market.Based in Spring Valley, CA, the firm serves many customers throughout the region.

Under the guidance of Mr. Herman Kopf with operations directed by Mr. Ruben Barrios, WCI has grownsteadily in the industry. Among the Peddinghaus equipment used in their fabrication facility:

• Ring of Fire BRF 500 thermal fabricator • BDL 1250/9 drill line• FDB 2500 plasma plate drilling/processing center • ABCM 1250 CNC coping system• FPB 500 plasma plate punching/processing center • DGP 1270-610 band saw

Herman Kopf (L) andRuben Barrios (R)

of West Coast Iron, with their Peddinghaus

Ring of Fire Thermal Fabricator.

SPECIAL EDTION STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW 25



With a name like John Wayne DeHay, you naturally develop a “larger than life” character,and like the “Duke”, you become a problemsolver. Someone you can depend on to providesuperior on-site service and trouble shooting.

Wayne is now bringing his expertise to a newPeddinghaus program – machine preventativemaintenance. In today’s era of controlling shopand labor costs, this new program will deliverwhat you need: a profitable solution to your maintenance questions.

Wayne, when did you first come to Peddinghaus?I joined the Peddinghaus team in August, 1997 bringing 27 years of experience with Automated Machinery from Relay logic, to tape readers, toPLCs and CNCs.

I have been around machine automation since my senior year in highschool. Prior to joining Peddinghaus, I worked for the Robert Bosch Corp.in the Fuel injector and ABS division. I started as a Senior Electrician andwas later promoted to the Engineering Dept. I was responsible for doingTime Management Studies on the machines and I would design/modify thesoftware to make the machines more efficient. My job was also trou-bleshooting machines at the Charleston, SC and Anderson, SC plants.

What roles have you played since joining the Peddinghaus family of employees?I started at Peddinghaus as a FieldService Technician traveling world-wide to install new machinery andtrain the operators. Later, I was promoted to Field Service Managerwhere I would troubleshoot issues and to give extensive training on themachines. Presently, I am SeniorService Technician/Technical Sales.

In your time at Peddinghaus what changes have you seen in the technology andthe way fabricators approach automation? Lightening fast changes and innovations are happening at Peddinghaus. Wewent from customers supplying their own computers to CNCs. Now the CNCscan multi task; operate as stand-alone units; or program, download a part pro-gram all while monitoring the machine. They can also network and exceptPeddinghaus’ remote assistance with troubleshooting or software updates.

Can you tell us about the preventative maintenance program you do atPeddinghaus? Yes! I’m very excited about this program! The maintenance program is designed to catch potential problems before they happen and to save the customer unnecessary downtime and expense.

Do you see existing users purchasing preventative maintenance programs onmultiple machines? Absolutely! Preventative Maintenance will assure peak performance out of all of their machines, new and old, for many years. Older machines mustperform as well as new machine for continuity. Our PreventativeMaintenance Program assesses older machines to see if a retrofit would benefit them. Electronics get difficult to repair/replace so updated retrofitsare a very good solution.

Why is a preventative maintenance program so important to the success of afabrication shop? To our customers, everything is about Time Management. How our customers bid on jobs is based on “Man Hours”. Shorter fabrication timemeans more profit. Scheduling a Preventative Maintenance Program willkeep their machines at top performance which will keep “down time”to a minimum.

Do you see an increased ability to learn CNC machine tools with the moderngeneration of labor? Are operators more apt to learn CNC technology than ever before? The younger generation is adept at accepting the new technology. It’s excitingto them since they were born in this modern age. The older generation is oldschool and it’s a paradigm to them but they come around and are just asexcited when they see and learn how simple the Peddinghaus machines are.

How fast does an operator generally pick up the use of the machine? Operators are often intimidated when they firstsee a new machine. I explain to the operator that this is only a drill, angle punching or platingmachine. Each machine just moves the material, drills or punches a hole or cuts a part out.I show them in detail each block of instructionin the CNC program and the commands themachine is doing. In less than a day, they arerunning their new machine like second nature!

What do you feel is Peddinghaus customer service’s strongest quality, and themost important thing it offers fabricators? Our staff! We have a great team that is dedicated to our customer’s needs!And we have the rest of the Peddinghaus family to assist us in getting theinformation/help needed to our customers ASAP!

What should someone do if they want to pursue the purchase of a preventativemaintenance program? Getting a PM plan in place is a very simple process. Simply call the customer service department at Peddinghaus and ask for Jeff Reilly orDuane Bates. They will arrange a proposal visit for me. At that point, I will assess your overall needs and give you a written proposal.

GETTING TO KNOW…

John Wayne DeHayPeddinghaus Machine Preventative Maintenance

VOLUME 34 STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEW SPECIAL EDITION

STEEL FABRICATORS’ REVIEWWashington and Grove StreetBradley, IL 60915815. 937. 3800www.steelfabreview.com

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 157

Joliet, IL

Top ten reasons YOU should attend our Special Event, on-site at the Gaylord Palms:

10. Don’t just go back to your hotel after the AISC cocktail hour! Get a firsthand look at what people mean by the phrase “Peddinghaus Hospitality”!

9. It’s only a 5 minute walk from the show floor to the grand entrance for our event. Join the parade!8. Have your picture taken with one of the 3 custom motorcycles on display by our professional

photographers. These machines are truly one-of-a-kind.7. Network with other industry professionals and converse with colleagues both new and old.

There's no better place to do it.6. Meet the people behind the technology in a relaxed environment! Everyone from Peddinghaus and their

industry partners will be in attendance.5. Top shelf refreshments will be served throughout the evening – no glass will be left unfilled!4. 5 star cuisine will be served for dinner – no guest will go hungry!3. See how Peddinghaus is scoring a perfect 10 out of 10 in 2010 with the industry and our customers.2. Be entered for a chance to win a customized Peddinghaus motorcycle – the PEDDI-CHOPPER!1. Enjoy a performance of world class comedic brilliance:

RON WHITE of the famed Blue Collar Comedy Tour!

Date: Wednesday, May 12th

Time: 7:30 PM

Place: The Gaylord Palms Resort, just steps from the show floor!

For more information come toBooth 400 and ask any one of our booth attendants about our2010 NASCC Special Evemt!

Printed with soy based inks on recyclable paper.

steel fabricators review v34 - special edition

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