By Dave Graf, Regional Sales Executive, Mac-Tech
Modern structural steel fabrication is under intense pressure. Shipyards, bridge builders, and high-rise construction firms across the West Coast are facing lengthier projects, heavier beams, and tighter deadlines—all while skilled labor is in short supply. As your trusted advisor at Mac-Tech, I’m here to help you tackle these challenges with turnkey automation solutions. When you need more than a machine—when you need a partner who delivers results—I’m your single point of contact.
Introduction: Unlocking ROI in Structural Steel Fabrication
Every project in the structural steel industry is a race against time and budget. The push for taller buildings, longer bridges, and next-generation ships means fabricators must handle larger, heavier parts with flawless accuracy. At the same time, labor shortages and supply chain disruptions threaten to slow down even the best-run operations. The answer? Smart automation—especially tandem brake setups—delivers the capacity, speed, and repeatability required by today’s demanding environments, ensuring every dollar you invest delivers maximum return.
Meet Your Automation Partner: Dave Graf at Mac-Tech
I’ve spent years helping West Coast fabricators solve their most difficult production puzzles. From initial consultation through installation and integration, I coordinate directly with equipment suppliers like Prodevco, Akyapak, Ermaksan, and more. My approach is hands-on: I work closely with your team to understand your workflow, recommend the right solutions, and ensure your new systems are seamlessly integrated—so you can focus on production, not project management.
Industry Challenges: Fabrication Demands in Shipyards, Towers, and Bridges
Today’s shipyards process beams over 40 feet long and plates weighing several tons. High-rise fabricators need to form large sections with tight tolerances, often on accelerated schedules. Bridge builders face similar demands, with the additional pressure of field assembly and regulatory compliance. Traditional press brakes and manual setups simply can’t keep up—especially when project specs call for greater part length, more complex bends, and minimal rework.
The Case for Automation: Boosting Efficiency and Output
Automation isn’t just about replacing labor—it’s about multiplying your team’s capabilities. Tandem hydraulic press brake setups allow you to bend longer and heavier parts using synchronized machines, eliminating the need for costly custom tooling or multiple setups. Automated backgauges, part handling, and integrated controls further reduce labor requirements and risk of operator error. In short, you get more throughput, shorter cycle times, and consistently higher quality.
Prodevco & Liberty: Streamlining Structural Steel Processing
When it comes to complex cuts and beam processing, Prodevco’s robotic plasma and drilling lines, backed by Liberty’s software, streamline operations from detailing through fabrication. These systems automate everything from coping and slotting to bolt hole drilling and scribing—reducing manual touchpoints and accelerating steel throughput. The result: fewer bottlenecks, less scrap, and a smoother path from shop to site.
Ermaksan & HSG Fiber Lasers: Precision Cutting for Complex Projects
Ermaksan and HSG fiber lasers deliver unmatched cutting speed and edge quality, even on thick or highly alloyed steels. For shipyards and high-rise fabricators, this means you can handle a wider range of materials and part geometries without sacrificing accuracy. Automated loading, unloading, and nesting software ensure that even high-mix, low-volume jobs are processed efficiently, freeing up skilled labor for higher-value tasks.
Akyapak & Ercolina: Advanced Bending and Forming Solutions
For heavy-duty bending and forming, Akyapak and Ercolina bring robust, programmable solutions capable of handling the largest beams and tubes used in modern construction. Tandem press brakes from these manufacturers can be combined for synchronized operation, delivering precise bends on massive parts while ensuring operator safety and repeatability. With CNC controls and offline programming, your team can switch between jobs quickly—keeping projects on track and on budget.
Integration Strategies: Tailoring Automation to Your Workflow
No two fabrication shops are identical. That’s why I work with your in-house engineers and operators to map out current processes, identify bottlenecks, and design an automation plan that fits your production flow. Whether you need a single tandem brake or a fully automated line, I coordinate with our suppliers and installation teams to ensure everything—from foundation requirements to network integration—is handled smoothly.
Ermaksan Power-Bend Falcon Bending Machine
Real-World Results: ROI and Efficiency Gains for Fabricators
Our clients see measurable gains almost immediately: labor costs drop as less manual handling is required, rework rates fall thanks to precise automation, and throughput climbs as bottlenecks disappear. In one West Coast shipyard, a tandem brake solution cut cycle times by over 30%, while a high-rise fabricator slashed setup times in half. These real-world results mean faster project delivery, higher margins, and a clear competitive advantage.
Next Steps: Consulting with a Single Point of Contact
Choosing the right automation equipment is a major investment—and the path to ROI depends on smart integration and reliable support. As your single point of contact at Mac-Tech, I coordinate everything from discovery to installation and training. My commitment is making your project seamless, so you can focus on what matters: growing your business.
Conclusion: Future-Proofing Your Operations with Tandem Brake Solutions
The future of structural steel fabrication is bigger, faster, and more automated. Tandem brake solutions, when paired with the right automation platforms, address the unique challenges of shipyards, high-rise contractors, and bridge fabricators. Let’s build your roadmap together—so your operation is ready for whatever comes next.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a tandem brake setup is right for my shop?
I offer on-site workflow analysis and ROI modeling to ensure tandem solutions fit your production needs and budget. Let’s review your part mix, length requirements, and projected volumes together.
What is the typical lead time for equipment like Ermaksan, Prodevco, or Akyapak?
Lead times vary; most tandem brake and automation systems are available within 4-8 months, but I’ll provide up-to-date estimates and help you plan for installation and ramp-up.
Can these machines be integrated with our existing software and ERP systems?
Absolutely. I work with both your IT team and our suppliers to ensure seamless integration with your current production scheduling, nesting, and tracking platforms.
What kind of training and after-sales support is included?
All projects include comprehensive operator and maintenance training, along with ongoing support from Mac-Tech and the equipment manufacturer. I’m your go-to contact for service, troubleshooting, and upgrades.
Are financing or leasing options available?
Yes! We partner with financing specialists to offer flexible payment plans that help you manage cash flow and accelerate ROI.
How do I start the process?
Just reach out to me directly at dave@mac-tech.com. I’ll schedule a discovery call, visit your facility if needed, and develop a tailored automation plan for your operation.
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