U.P. FABRICATING: Technology Grant Results in Improved Accuracy and Safety
MMTC was an excellent partner to help us realize how Industry 4.0 technology can expand our capabilities. Meeting one-on-one with MMTC helped us develop our plan, purchase equipment, and create an outline for training and implementation, which was paramount in finding success in this project.
-- Mike Kumpula, Vice President
U.P. Fabricating (www.upfab.com) is a metal fabricator specializing in structural steel and miscellaneous metals for stairs, handrails, platforms, material handling conveyors, chutes, storage and process tanks, replacement parts, and decorative and artistic installations. Incorporated in 1974 and employing 35 people at their three locations in Marquette, Delta, and Schoolcraft counties, U.P. Fabricating works with local contractors and industrial sites across the Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Northern Lower Peninsula and Northern Wisconsin.
Challenge
U.P. Fabricating works with customers who have large and complex project sites that are difficult to field measure accurately and efficiently. Location and access can be a barrier to successfully measure and fabricate parts to fit the existing conditions. This was causing issues for U.P. Fabricating.
Solution
With guidance from the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), U.P. Fabricating applied for and was awarded an Industry 4.0 equipment grant. With this grant, they acquired a 3D scanner. The scanner allows a field technician to accurately and safely scan/measure the distance required to produce the steel parts of the project. Scanning will be used on at least $300,000 of upcoming projects in the next three months.
Results
- Cost Savings: $25,000
- Time Savings: Improved productivity by increasing accuracy and reducing the time taken to field measure for projects by roughly 25%
- New Sales: $35,000
- Retained Sales: $40,000
- New Investment: $57,000
- Retained Jobs: 1