In today’s world, there are specialists for almost everything: from medical specialists to learning specialists and even shrubbery specialists – the world of sheet metal fabrication is no exception. While you can find shops that specialize in many different areas of sheet metal fabrication, that may not necessarily be the best decision for you or…
Sheet metal fabrication is a precise art that requires attention to detail, experience, and a deep understanding of the materials and processes involved. At Estes, we’ve seen a myriad of designs come our way, and over the years, we’ve identified some common mistakes that can be avoided to ensure a smoother fabrication process. Here’s a…
Press brakes (or brake presses) are some of the most common machines used by sheet metal fabricators and have been the go-to bending machines for many years. Press brakes are powerful machines that are capable of forming both simple and complex parts. While there are dozens of different press brakes in various sizes and each…
There are two major laser cutting systems on the market today used in sheet metal fabrication: CO2 and fiber laser cutting technology. With much discussion in manufacturing circles on which cutting technology is the better method, there are several notable differences between CO2 and fiber laser cutting technology when it comes to their capabilities and,…
People often ask, what exactly does Estes Design and Manufacturing make? Our elevator pitch to this question is usually, “Whatever you want us to make.” While our capabilities aren’t endless, our suite of services includes traditional metal fabrication, 3D laser welding, product development and prototyping, as well as inventory management and cost reduction services. In…
What is an ISO certification in manufacturing? What does it mean for customers of a certified organization? Quality in the sheet metal manufacturing world is crucial not only for safety but also for product durability, cost savings, and supplier reliability. Read on to learn more about ISO and what it means for you! What…
When determining how to produce a part cost-effectively, there are numerous options available to designers. At Estes Design and Manufacturing, we value automation as a way to reduce the cost of your part and increase the quality. But when it comes to creating your part blank from the sheet metal, what is the best method?…
If you’re looking to make your own products, you have numerous options regarding the materials that you can use for fabrication. There are many different factors you must consider when determining what material is best for your product, and it is important to find opportunities to streamline your manufacturing processes with the materials you choose.…
No matter the size of your manufacturing environment, how you choose to organize each square foot of your facility can make a significant impact on the success of your organization. Cellular manufacturing has proven to provide many benefits to the companies that adopt this manufacturing style. Below we define cellular manufacturing and how it works,…
Have you checked out our new Resources website page? As a design and innovation leader in the sheet metal fabrication industry, it’s important for us to make information regarding our services and trends easily accessible for our current and prospective clients. In an effort to share our knowledge and expertise in the industry, we have…