Peddinghaus Steel Fabricators' Review Fall 2006

24 STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEW FALL 2006

F A B R I C A T O R S M A K I N G T O D A Y ’ S S K Y L I N E P O S S I B L E

VOLUME 20 NEWS FOR THE STRUCTURAL STEEL & PLATE FABRICATOR www.peddinghaus.com

STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEWWashington and Grove StreetBradley, IL 60915

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 157

Joliet, IL

Like many people here in the Midwest, I enjoy thechange of seasons. I am especially fond of the FallSeason as the air is crisp, and the autumn foliagecolors are breathtaking.

But the main reason I enjoy the Fall Season isbecause of the business challenges that seem to arise this time of year. The vacation season of summer is over, and fabricators are already “getting down to business.” Nothing is more evident than this Fall of 2006.

The past months seem like a whirlwind of con-stant activity for the steel construction industry.Structural fabricators report increased projects andrenewed activity in many sectors of fabrication:from high rise to commercial to industrial (and

everything in between). But this vibrant economy brings challenges as well. Let’slook at two areas that are challenging to us all.

Good Maintenance Always Multiplies Your Machine Investment Many new structural fabricators have made the investment in new automatedCNC equipment. We always advise our customers that the best insurance formachine longevity is qualified, daily maintenance. Think of your machine toolas the real long-term investment that it really is. Think in terms of that machineas you would your own home. Daily maintenance and care are needed to keepthem both in top shape and retain their value in the market.

Here’s a simple exercise for those of you with CNC structural drills. Take thedrill chips and spiral coils, wrap them up, and tuck a few in your socks—rightby your ankle. Start walking, and see how far you can go. As you find out, thispretty much prohibits walking and sitting becomes pretty uncomfortable as well.Now you know how your drill feels when it is clogged with steel chips. Clean itup, do some maintenance, and your investment will retain higher value andserve you longer.

Implement a maintenance plan—and stick to it. Not just a short term, but an annual assessment of your machine. If you have one of our Plasma Platemachines, order our plasma maintenance manual (see page 15). This simple document outlines exactly the steps to extend the life and quality of yourPeddinghaus plasma system.

Put some spare parts on the shelf. Wear and tear or consumable componentsare valuable tools when you are working on a job with a tight deadline. It’s a lot easier taking a part off your shelf than waiting for the Fedex guy toarrive at 10:30 am tomorrow.

Shop Labor Challenges Us AllThe very best part of my position as CEO of Peddinghaus is visiting structuralsteel fabricators, and discussing the “state of the industry”. These conversationsare always enjoyable and enlightening. I have had the opportunity to travel and discuss fabrication practices with structural people on every continent ofour world. The one amazing item that keeps popping up repeatedly in our

conversations is the common theme—Shop Labor.

The most repeated comment is, “I can’t find qualified people to work in myshop.” Closely followed by, “Can you help me find good layout or fit-up people?”Or the most common is, “Hey, I need welders—how do you get good ones?”

It is not too hard to find hard evidence of the shop labor difficulties:1. Fabricators in the Southeast recruit welders from Latin America, and are

constructing “dormitories” near their shop facilities to house them.2. Fabricators in Canada recruit fitters and layout people from eastern Europe

and maintain housing for them as well3. The upcoming Fabtech/AWS show is sponsoring a “Recruitment Center”

for all personnel—but especially welders, and shop people.

Thus, it is a universal problem. And yes, Peddinghaus shares the same challengesyou face. As you know from our last issue, we have under taken a major capitalimprovement project in the past six months, highlighted by a $1.5M investmentin new machining centers, a 63,000 square foot expansion of our shop warehousing area, and three new sawing systems to improve labor productivity.

R & D—We’re Listening to What You’re SayingThe most intriguing area of Peddinghaus’ investment is in Research andDevelopment. We have a great facility in which we are finalizing and testingproducts which we believe address the very issues we describe above. We areexcited about the potential – as are our industry business partners who haveviewed the equipment with our engineering staff.

Our Engineers are busily working on the Peddinghaus concept of The Fab Shopof the Future. A Future that Peddinghaus looks forward to sharing with you—very soon.

In today’s corporate society, many firms quicklydevelop identification labels. These labels arebased on their reputation or performance in a specific industry or market segment. Just like yourreputation, your corporate identity tends to stickwith you. Microsoft is Windows Software;Southwest Airlines is reliable no/frills flying;Enron—well, we all know Enron’s label.

Cianbro Corporation, Pittsfield, ME is proud to be known as an employee owned firm dedicated to Safety…

Full story on page 5

TABLE OF CONTENTSCodeme

Building Success from Higher Education 2CIANBRO

Project Performance the Safe Way 5Peddinghaus Annual Distributors Meeting

Sales meeting recap 10Peddinghaus Distributors

Location map 12Tekla

User meeting recap 14Allied Machine

Penetrating Tips on Successful Structural and Plate Drilling 16

North Shore Supply Co.Planning for the Future 18

CODEME: Building SUCCESS from Higher EDUCATIONHow many times have you heard college students admit, “I’m not sure what my future is after college”,or “I hope I obtain a job in the field of my choice”.

College students are always filled with apprehensionwhen they consider the future. What is out there forme? Is this a step in the right direction for mycareer? Some surveys even reveal that less than30% of college graduates obtain a position in the field of their study.

Let me tell you a story about four college engineering students. Four students who worked their waythrough a challenging college curriculum to receive their diplomas. Four students who became fastfriends in time spent together studying and sharing college life.

Continued on page 2

CIANBRO: Project Performance the Safe Way

ALLIED: Penetrating Tipson Successful Structural and Plate Drilling

…Critical to maximizing the performance of your

beam and plate drilling applications. Addressing

the causes of these wear patterns reduces tool

costs by minimizing breakage, and increases

production by reducing downtime. The patterns

most prevalent in the structural drilling industry

are described, and solutions to alleviate uneven

wear are offered.

See full story on page 16

Anton Peddinghaus

Alvin Townes, Leroy Vanadestine, and Brian Carr ofCianbro Corporation, Pittsfield, Maine, a proud memberof ENR’s list of Top 400 Contractors.

Alberto Woods Soares Neto, Dalton Paulo Simoes Utsch,and Ademar De Carvalho B. Filho of Codeme EngenhariaS.A., A Premier Structural Fabricator in Brazil.

FALL 2006 STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEW 32 STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEW FALL 2006

Growing to the Next LevelCodeme continued to grow, and became amajor player in building construction in Braziland South America. But what about the future?How could they continue to compete in thenext three, five, or ten years? What productiontechnology was available that could help them?They looked to a leader in the industry—theylooked to Peddinghaus.

“In 1992, we came to the realization that theonly way we could increase productivity andwage a consistent battle with concrete, was toincrease shop productivity,” commented AdemarBarbosa, Codeme’s Managing Director.

In April, 1995, Ademar and Dalton Simões,Production Manager, booked a flight to theUSA to visit the North American SteelConstruction Conference (NASCC) sponsoredby the American Institute of Steel Construction(AISC). It was at this conference that theylearned of the true productivity of automatedshop equipment—especially from Peddinghaus.

Says Ademar, “It was at the AISC show inPhoenix that we truly understood the strength andproductivity of these Peddinghaus machines.”

“The Peddinghaus people were helpful, friendly,and very genuine in their approach to helping us,”Says Dalton, “Perhaps the greatest benefit was taking us on a tour to visit fabricators and educateus better on how to improve our production.”

Codeme made their choiceand installed a Peddinghaus system in 1996. Itconsisted of a new TDK 1000/3 drill, new 40"band saw, with an accompanying ABC automat-ed cope and burn system. A complete newmaterial handling system was installed to boostthe new production line, as well.

Perhaps one of the major installations was theFPB 1500 plate processing system in 1999. Thispowerful machine changed the entire philosophyof how to produce plate at Codeme –and muchof Brazil. (See the insert article FPB—Return OnInvestment on page 6.)

Boosting TonnageInstalling the Peddinghaus system proved to beone of the most profitable investments Codemehad ever made. They were delighted with theproduction capabilities of the system. Beating Concrete at their Own Game

The penultimate challenge in Brazil was to winover customers to the belief that steel construc-tion is superior to concrete. Many steel fabricat-ing companies in Brazil, including Codeme,attack this argument in several ways:

• Speed in Construction at the job site• Flexible Construction during the production

process• Viable alternatives during the planning time• Strength and rigidity in seismic zones

Continued on page 4

Project: CBMM Mine ProjectCustomer: Cia. Brasileira de Matalurgia 3 MineroTotal Area: 50,000 square metersTons: 3.500Location: Arax, MG, Brazil

Project: SALVADOR SHOPPING MALLCustomer: Salvador Shopping Ltda.Total Area: 145,765 square metersTons: 4,900 tonsLocation: Salvador, BA, Brazil

CODEME: Building Success

Continued from page 1

These four students looked at each other oneday, and come up with an idea: Let’s Start ourown Company! It sounded like a wonderful idea—but could it possibly work? Four universitygraduates starting a company and tackling thebusiness world seemed like a monumental task.The year was 1980, and the future lay ahead.

Take a Risk—Reap a Reward!

The opportunity came in their home town ofBelo Horizonte, MG., a city of 3 million peoplein central Brazil. A downtown gas station wasbeing demolished to make way for a more“modern” facility with a canopy.

Previously, gas stations with a canopy structurewere built entirely of welded connections onsite. The process was slow—and dangerous—asgasoline fumes and welding sparks make a dead-ly combination.

The four friends saw an opportunity. In theirEngineering classes they had studied structuralsteel and learned of bolted connections. Theyapproached the owner of the station (Shell Oil)with the concept and Shell was intrigued withthe idea.

The “Four Amigos” eagerly accepted the chal-lenge, and began fabricating. The new Shellcanopy in downtown Belo Horizonte was finished in two days. Previous canopies were aminimum of two weeks. The canopy was strong,solid and still stands the test of time.

Soon, Shell Oil was designing every station with a fabricated canopy of bolted connections.Other oil companies soon took notice of the fast, flexible construction and the conceptwas flying.

Codeme is BornThe Four friends: Ademar de Carvalho BarbosaFilho, Luis Tomé de Rezende, Ricardo AraújoLanna and Roberval José Pimenta, indeedformed a new company. They each took theirpersonal strengths in business – engineering,commercial sales, financial, production – andput them to work. All enjoyed steel constructionand its opportunities, so the name was simple:

Co = constructionde = structuresMe = metallic

As the company grew from its four founders,they investigated new technology for bigger steelbuildings. Next on the project horizon forCodeme was the steel warehouse market. In1985, Codeme helped develop technology inBrazil for steel construction.

Concrete construction had long been the material choice for buildings in Brazil. It was atraditional choice, as no significant alternativehad been truly developed. Codeme worked with their business partners—including Canam Steel in Canada to develop a steel decking product that minimized construction time while providing a quality structural roof andfloor component.

Located on a hillside, Codeme installed a tunnel to jointheir fab shops with their new painting area.

Their business philosophy was simple:

Always Go Beyond

• Exceed the expectation levels of your clients

• Exceed the expectation levels of your shareholders

• Exceed the expectation levels of your employees

Codeme engages in any size project—and has found success in steel high rise residential buildings. The operation of the Peddinghaus Drill Line and Saw Line is a Family Matter At Codeme. Antonio Mandes is the Peddinghaus Drill Operator.

Approved product is ready to ship in the Codeme yard.

Moises Mandes, Antonio’s Son, is the Peddinghaus Saw Operator.

“With our old methods, we could barely keep up,”

commented Dalton, “With the new Peddinghaussystem, we had increasedour tonnage to over 1,000

tons per month.”

“We easily average 1,500tons per month now—and

we know we can do better.”

Project: CENTRO DE DISTRIBUIÇAO VIA EXPRESSACustomer: Consórcio Logístico Via ExpressaTotal Area: 9,221 square metersTonnage: 156 tonsLocation: Contagem, MG, Brazil

Project: HOTEL CAESER PARK GUARULHOSCustomer: INPAR Construçoes e Empreendimentos Imobiliários Ltda.Total Area: 25,421 square metersTonnage: 1080 tonsLocation: Guarulhos, SP, Brazil

~

~


Growing to the Next LevelCodeme continued to grow, and became amajor player in building construction in Braziland South America. But what about the future?How could they continue to compete in thenext three, five, or ten years? What productiontechnology was available that could help them?They looked to a leader in the industry—theylooked to Peddinghaus.

“In 1992, we came to the realization that theonly way we could increase productivity andwage a consistent battle with concrete, was toincrease shop productivity,” commented AdemarBarbosa, Codeme’s Managing Director.

In April, 1995, Ademar and Dalton Simões,Production Manager, booked a flight to theUSA to visit the North American SteelConstruction Conference (NASCC) sponsoredby the American Institute of Steel Construction(AISC). It was at this conference that theylearned of the true productivity of automatedshop equipment—especially from Peddinghaus.

Says Ademar, “It was at the AISC show inPhoenix that we truly understood the strength andproductivity of these Peddinghaus machines.”

“The Peddinghaus people were helpful, friendly,and very genuine in their approach to helping us,”Says Dalton, “Perhaps the greatest benefit was taking us on a tour to visit fabricators and educateus better on how to improve our production.”

Codeme made their choiceand installed a Peddinghaus system in 1996. Itconsisted of a new TDK 1000/3 drill, new 40"band saw, with an accompanying ABC automat-ed cope and burn system. A complete newmaterial handling system was installed to boostthe new production line, as well.

Perhaps one of the major installations was theFPB 1500 plate processing system in 1999. Thispowerful machine changed the entire philosophyof how to produce plate at Codeme –and muchof Brazil. (See the insert article FPB—Return OnInvestment on page 6.)

Boosting TonnageInstalling the Peddinghaus system proved to beone of the most profitable investments Codemehad ever made. They were delighted with theproduction capabilities of the system. Beating Concrete at their Own Game

The penultimate challenge in Brazil was to winover customers to the belief that steel construc-tion is superior to concrete. Many steel fabricat-ing companies in Brazil, including Codeme,attack this argument in several ways:

• Speed in Construction at the job site• Flexible Construction during the production

process• Viable alternatives during the planning time• Strength and rigidity in seismic zones

Continued on page 4

Project: CBMM Mine ProjectCustomer: Cia. Brasileira de Matalurgia 3 MineroTotal Area: 50,000 square metersTons: 3.500Location: Arax, MG, Brazil

Project: SALVADOR SHOPPING MALLCustomer: Salvador Shopping Ltda.Total Area: 145,765 square metersTons: 4,900 tonsLocation: Salvador, BA, Brazil



These four students looked at each other oneday, and come up with an idea: Let’s Start ourown Company! It sounded like a wonderful idea—but could it possibly work? Four universitygraduates starting a company and tackling thebusiness world seemed like a monumental task.The year was 1980, and the future lay ahead.

Take a Risk—Reap a Reward!

The opportunity came in their home town ofBelo Horizonte, MG., a city of 3 million peoplein central Brazil. A downtown gas station wasbeing demolished to make way for a more“modern” facility with a canopy.

Previously, gas stations with a canopy structurewere built entirely of welded connections onsite. The process was slow—and dangerous—asgasoline fumes and welding sparks make a dead-ly combination.

The four friends saw an opportunity. In theirEngineering classes they had studied structuralsteel and learned of bolted connections. Theyapproached the owner of the station (Shell Oil)with the concept and Shell was intrigued withthe idea.

The “Four Amigos” eagerly accepted the chal-lenge, and began fabricating. The new Shellcanopy in downtown Belo Horizonte was finished in two days. Previous canopies were aminimum of two weeks. The canopy was strong,solid and still stands the test of time.

Soon, Shell Oil was designing every station with a fabricated canopy of bolted connections.Other oil companies soon took notice of the fast, flexible construction and the conceptwas flying.

Codeme is BornThe Four friends: Ademar de Carvalho BarbosaFilho, Luis Tomé de Rezende, Ricardo AraújoLanna and Roberval José Pimenta, indeedformed a new company. They each took theirpersonal strengths in business – engineering,commercial sales, financial, production – andput them to work. All enjoyed steel constructionand its opportunities, so the name was simple:

Co = constructionde = structuresMe = metallic

As the company grew from its four founders,they investigated new technology for bigger steelbuildings. Next on the project horizon forCodeme was the steel warehouse market. In1985, Codeme helped develop technology inBrazil for steel construction.

Concrete construction had long been the material choice for buildings in Brazil. It was atraditional choice, as no significant alternativehad been truly developed. Codeme worked with their business partners—including Canam Steel in Canada to develop a steel decking product that minimized construction time while providing a quality structural roof andfloor component.

Located on a hillside, Codeme installed a tunnel to jointheir fab shops with their new painting area.

Their business philosophy was simple:

Always Go Beyond

• Exceed the expectation levels of your clients

• Exceed the expectation levels of your shareholders

• Exceed the expectation levels of your employees

Codeme engages in any size project—and has found success in steel high rise residential buildings. The operation of the Peddinghaus Drill Line and Saw Line is a Family Matter At Codeme. Antonio Mandes is the Peddinghaus Drill Operator.

Approved product is ready to ship in the Codeme yard.

Moises Mandes, Antonio’s Son, is the Peddinghaus Saw Operator.

“With our old methods, we could barely keep up,”

commented Dalton, “With the new Peddinghaussystem, we had increasedour tonnage to over 1,000

tons per month.”

“We easily average 1,500tons per month now—and

we know we can do better.”

Project: CENTRO DE DISTRIBUIÇAO VIA EXPRESSACustomer: Consórcio Logístico Via ExpressaTotal Area: 9,221 square metersTonnage: 156 tonsLocation: Contagem, MG, Brazil

Project: HOTEL CAESER PARK GUARULHOSCustomer: INPAR Construçoes e Empreendimentos Imobiliários Ltda.Total Area: 25,421 square metersTonnage: 1080 tonsLocation: Guarulhos, SP, Brazil

~

~




As a result of the efforts of these Brazilian firms,steel construction is on the rise. Evidenced bythe following facts:

• More Engineering students are learning aboutsteel construction at the University level

• More steel mills are established and processingmore various section sizes and shapes

• A tremendous growth is seen now in all aspectsof commercial buildings.

Codeme Embraces a Business Partner to Grow Their BusinessIn 1998, the owners of Codeme realized that inorder to capture the market opportunities theywould need to grow their business faster. That iswhen an investment holding of ASAMARGroup, known as ISA, joined Codeme.

ASAMAR, is a family group, established for overseventy years, with activities spreading across dif-ferent industries such as Construction, Cement,Concrete, Real Estate, Fuel Distribution andSteel Fabrication, with a combined annual salesof over US$ 2 billion. Mr. Alberto Soares, a 3rdgeneration member of ASAMAR, and ProjectDirector of Codeme, remembers that right afterthe merger in 1999, a new Company namedMetform was created in order to separate therollforming activities (steel deck, cladding ) fromthe steel fabrication business.

The idea of separating the business in two different companies has proved to be effectiveproviding an exceptional growth in sales andproduct capability.

“We can provide the entire construction package,” explained Alberto,” the decking system installs quickly and efficiently, and hashelped grow the business.”

Ademar concurs, “The Metsec joist system forpurlins and related roof construction gave us newopportunities in various new markets. Now wecompete in pre-engineered buildings or portalframe buildings regularly.” Codeme does the entirebuilding engineering and interface package.

Peddinghaus Does Make a DifferenceAsked if Peddinghaus made a difference forCodeme brought a smile to Ademar’s face:“Since we installed Peddinghaus, we average1,500 tons per month.”

“Because of the quality of our work, We regularly compete in markets throughout Latinand South America; we know we can competethroughout the world.”

We currently fabricate:• High Rise Residential and Office Buildings• Medical Facilities• University and Schools• Stadiums• Shopping Malls• Hotels• Pre-Engineered and Portal Buildings

Remnant Stock (from fabricated beams) is all processedon the Peddinghaus FPB 1800 plate system, savingCodeme money by minimizing scrap.

The Codeme unloading system reduces labor by efficiently moving finished parts from the machine to the fit-up area.

The FPB punch plasma machine processes both plate andremnants from 72" to 2".

“We are confident of taking on any job because of

our confidence inPeddinghaus Equipment.”

Crane handling is minimized as the operator loads a stock length or a remnant onto the machine only onetime, saving valuable labor.

More Parts—Less Scrap—By Common line plasma cutting, scrap created by unnecessary material “skeletons” is virtually eliminated.

Success Brings a Second Fabricating Shop for CodemeConfidence and business savvy—a term not easily translated, but well understood—bringsopportunity. The management of Codeme hadthe strength and foresight to grow their compa-ny to even higher levels.

Currently under construction in Taubate, a citynear Sao Paulo, is a new 10,000 square meter(35,000 square feet) fabrication shop facility forthe next step in Codeme’s growth.

This new facility will have the initial capacity toproduce a minimum of 2,500 tons of fabricatedstructural steel per month! When coupled withthe 1,500 from the Belo Horizonte shop,Codeme has the potential for over 4,000 tonsper month or close to 50,000 tons per year.

How will they achieve this tonnage from thenew shop? Easy, when you use Peddinghaus foryour production:• New BDL 1250/9 multi spindle structural drill• New 1270-510 structural band saw with

Accumeasure Measuring System• New FPB 1800 Plasma Plate Punching Center• New CNC Angle Iron Processing System• New Material Handling system“We are eager to start production at this newfacility," says Dalton. “This will be anotherstate-of-the-art production center featuring thelatest technology in the industry.”

Doing Business with a Friend—PeddinghausWhen asked why he does business withPeddinghaus, Ademar simply smiles: “I cananswer that in two sentences:1. Everyone at Peddinghaus is enthusiastic with

their company, and that enthusiasm is dis-played to us by everyone we have met

2. Peddinghaus does business like Codeme doesbusiness:a. It is always based on the truthb. All points and issues are always addressed

and resolved to satisfactionc. If Peddinghaus doesn’t know, they always

get back to us. It may be good news or bad, but they always respond.”

“We feel that Codeme and Peddinghaus are verymuch alike: Peddinghaus has good people, andgood people make for a good company. We love what we do at Codeme, and I can tell that Peddinghaus people love what they do. Two good companies make for Great Business Partners!”

Machine Return on Investment: Put This on Your PlateOf all the CNC machines and equipment, which one had the quickest return on investment?Exactly what machine paid for itself in the shortest amount of time?“That’s an easy question,” comments Ademar, “The FPB 1800 paid for itself very rapidly.”

According to Ademar of Codeme, one of the fastest methods of machine pay back is to calculatehow they can reduce your fixed costs. With the FPB 1800, it was easy.

Codeme had to calculate the need for multiple employees inthe process for producing plate detail:1.Unloading plate from the truck2. Loading onto a burn table for cutting into parts3. Fetching the parts out of the burn table4. Measuring the parts for hole location5. Drilling the holes6. Stacking the plates7. Moving the plates to the fit-up area8. Bolting or welding in position—and hoping that the

manual holes were correct!

Ademar recalls one job that involved over 30 employeesinvolved in plate fabrication. “We knew we could not be profitable using so many people in one process.”

Save Inventory Costs with an FPB 1800

“The FPB does it all in one process; instead of 30 men, we use three now to load, unload, andoperate the machine. Let me tell you why the FPB makes us money.”In Brazil, we do not have all the AISC beam and column shapes and sizes. Thus, we have to fab-ricate many of our own beams (see photo). These are cut from plate, and always have remnants.We save money in three ways:1. We process every remnant on the FPB—the nesting software is very effective in using every

square millimeter of the plate.2. Because the machine can plasma cut from a common line (see photo below), we can process a

full plate from stock and effectively use the entire length and width.These two steps save money by reducing our inventory3. Labor is saved because the parts are punched, plasma cut to any shape or length, and marked

by one operator. This step saves money by reducing our overhead labor costs. Dalton says, “When the time came to select equipment for the new shop, the FPB 1800 was on the top of the list!”

Dalton Simoes, Director of Codeme Fabricationand Jose Cavazos of Peddinghaus acknowledgethe profitable investment of the FPB 1800 at Codeme.

The Peddinghaus Common Line (Chain) Cutting allows all parts to have holes punched, and plasma cut along common lines which is the fastest, most efficient, and profitable way to make parts from plate or flat stock.

It also saves on plasma consumables by eliminating frequent starts and stops.




As a result of the efforts of these Brazilian firms,steel construction is on the rise. Evidenced bythe following facts:

• More Engineering students are learning aboutsteel construction at the University level

• More steel mills are established and processingmore various section sizes and shapes

• A tremendous growth is seen now in all aspectsof commercial buildings.

Codeme Embraces a Business Partner to Grow Their BusinessIn 1998, the owners of Codeme realized that inorder to capture the market opportunities theywould need to grow their business faster. That iswhen an investment holding of ASAMARGroup, known as ISA, joined Codeme.

ASAMAR, is a family group, established for overseventy years, with activities spreading across dif-ferent industries such as Construction, Cement,Concrete, Real Estate, Fuel Distribution andSteel Fabrication, with a combined annual salesof over US$ 2 billion. Mr. Alberto Soares, a 3rdgeneration member of ASAMAR, and ProjectDirector of Codeme, remembers that right afterthe merger in 1999, a new Company namedMetform was created in order to separate therollforming activities (steel deck, cladding ) fromthe steel fabrication business.

The idea of separating the business in two different companies has proved to be effectiveproviding an exceptional growth in sales andproduct capability.

“We can provide the entire construction package,” explained Alberto,” the decking system installs quickly and efficiently, and hashelped grow the business.”

Ademar concurs, “The Metsec joist system forpurlins and related roof construction gave us newopportunities in various new markets. Now wecompete in pre-engineered buildings or portalframe buildings regularly.” Codeme does the entirebuilding engineering and interface package.

Peddinghaus Does Make a DifferenceAsked if Peddinghaus made a difference forCodeme brought a smile to Ademar’s face:“Since we installed Peddinghaus, we average1,500 tons per month.”

“Because of the quality of our work, We regularly compete in markets throughout Latinand South America; we know we can competethroughout the world.”

We currently fabricate:• High Rise Residential and Office Buildings• Medical Facilities• University and Schools• Stadiums• Shopping Malls• Hotels• Pre-Engineered and Portal Buildings

Remnant Stock (from fabricated beams) is all processedon the Peddinghaus FPB 1800 plate system, savingCodeme money by minimizing scrap.

The Codeme unloading system reduces labor by efficiently moving finished parts from the machine to the fit-up area.

The FPB punch plasma machine processes both plate andremnants from 72" to 2".

“We are confident of taking on any job because of

our confidence inPeddinghaus Equipment.”

Crane handling is minimized as the operator loads a stock length or a remnant onto the machine only onetime, saving valuable labor.

More Parts—Less Scrap—By Common line plasma cutting, scrap created by unnecessary material “skeletons” is virtually eliminated.

Success Brings a Second Fabricating Shop for CodemeConfidence and business savvy—a term not easily translated, but well understood—bringsopportunity. The management of Codeme hadthe strength and foresight to grow their compa-ny to even higher levels.

Currently under construction in Taubate, a citynear Sao Paulo, is a new 10,000 square meter(35,000 square feet) fabrication shop facility forthe next step in Codeme’s growth.

This new facility will have the initial capacity toproduce a minimum of 2,500 tons of fabricatedstructural steel per month! When coupled withthe 1,500 from the Belo Horizonte shop,Codeme has the potential for over 4,000 tonsper month or close to 50,000 tons per year.

How will they achieve this tonnage from thenew shop? Easy, when you use Peddinghaus foryour production:• New BDL 1250/9 multi spindle structural drill• New 1270-510 structural band saw with

Accumeasure Measuring System• New FPB 1800 Plasma Plate Punching Center• New CNC Angle Iron Processing System• New Material Handling system“We are eager to start production at this newfacility," says Dalton. “This will be anotherstate-of-the-art production center featuring thelatest technology in the industry.”

Doing Business with a Friend—PeddinghausWhen asked why he does business withPeddinghaus, Ademar simply smiles: “I cananswer that in two sentences:1. Everyone at Peddinghaus is enthusiastic with

their company, and that enthusiasm is dis-played to us by everyone we have met

2. Peddinghaus does business like Codeme doesbusiness:a. It is always based on the truthb. All points and issues are always addressed

and resolved to satisfactionc. If Peddinghaus doesn’t know, they always

get back to us. It may be good news or bad, but they always respond.”

“We feel that Codeme and Peddinghaus are verymuch alike: Peddinghaus has good people, andgood people make for a good company. We love what we do at Codeme, and I can tell that Peddinghaus people love what they do. Two good companies make for Great Business Partners!”

Machine Return on Investment: Put This on Your PlateOf all the CNC machines and equipment, which one had the quickest return on investment?Exactly what machine paid for itself in the shortest amount of time?“That’s an easy question,” comments Ademar, “The FPB 1800 paid for itself very rapidly.”

According to Ademar of Codeme, one of the fastest methods of machine pay back is to calculatehow they can reduce your fixed costs. With the FPB 1800, it was easy.

Codeme had to calculate the need for multiple employees inthe process for producing plate detail:1.Unloading plate from the truck2. Loading onto a burn table for cutting into parts3. Fetching the parts out of the burn table4. Measuring the parts for hole location5. Drilling the holes6. Stacking the plates7. Moving the plates to the fit-up area8. Bolting or welding in position—and hoping that the

manual holes were correct!

Ademar recalls one job that involved over 30 employeesinvolved in plate fabrication. “We knew we could not be profitable using so many people in one process.”

Save Inventory Costs with an FPB 1800

“The FPB does it all in one process; instead of 30 men, we use three now to load, unload, andoperate the machine. Let me tell you why the FPB makes us money.”In Brazil, we do not have all the AISC beam and column shapes and sizes. Thus, we have to fab-ricate many of our own beams (see photo). These are cut from plate, and always have remnants.We save money in three ways:1. We process every remnant on the FPB—the nesting software is very effective in using every

square millimeter of the plate.2. Because the machine can plasma cut from a common line (see photo below), we can process a

full plate from stock and effectively use the entire length and width.These two steps save money by reducing our inventory3. Labor is saved because the parts are punched, plasma cut to any shape or length, and marked

by one operator. This step saves money by reducing our overhead labor costs. Dalton says, “When the time came to select equipment for the new shop, the FPB 1800 was on the top of the list!”

Dalton Simoes, Director of Codeme Fabricationand Jose Cavazos of Peddinghaus acknowledgethe profitable investment of the FPB 1800 at Codeme.

The Peddinghaus Common Line (Chain) Cutting allows all parts to have holes punched, and plasma cut along common lines which is the fastest, most efficient, and profitable way to make parts from plate or flat stock.

It also saves on plasma consumables by eliminating frequent starts and stops.


CIANBRO and Peddinghaus Team Up With Building Modeling, Detailing and MRP Software in Seamless Integration of All Projects

Dave Leavitt, General Manager, Fabrication & Coating of Cianbro, statesit the best, “As our capacity has increased, and our work mix has diversified,Peddinghaus CNC Equipment, and its integration with our detailing software, has become a key element to Productivity and Quality.”

How does a firm get to be listed as number 171 on the prestigiousEngineering News Record’s list of the Top 400 Contractors? Cianbro is ranked as a leader in the following market areas:

• Top 5 in Hydro Plants• Top 10 in Pulp and Paper Facilities• Top 25 in Bridges

To achieve this status, your firm must employ the latest technology in technology and design. A dynamic player in the burgeoning Power Plant market, Cianbro plays all its cards to be competitive and effective.

The integration of technology into Cianbro’s daily operation is a key to their success. The seamless interoperability of all major software with the Peddinghaus equipment has proven to be the real difference in various projects.

Two projects which clearly depict this technological advancement are a hospital in New York and a powerplant in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Pete Vigue, President and CEO ofCianbro advises,“Teamwork, commitment, and personal sacrifice are what differentiate our people and this company from our competitors. It is what allows Cianbro to do some pretty extraordinarythings in the construction industry.

Our team puts its can-do spirit to work every day coming up with innovative and creative solutions for our customer’s needs on a wide variety of projects.”

Leroy Vanadestine – MarketingAlvin Townes – General ForemanNick Rossi – Safety (in harness)Mike Fisher – Job CoordinatorBrian Carr – Baltimore Fabrication

& Coatings Shop Manager

S A F E T YSafety? A construction firm with over 2,000 employees and global presence

is known for Safety? A firm that attacks some of the most sophisticated

building projects in the world—bridges, hydro-electric power plants, pulp

and paper facilities—is most proud of their reputation for Safety?

Welcome to a refreshing respite from the horror stories of the Industrial

Revolution, black lung disease, child labor and labor exploitation tragedies.

Take an insightful view of a firm that actually practices what it preaches

about caring for the health and safety of its employees.

Welcome to a firm that actually engineered and designed a safety harness

for ironworkers walking high steel that revolutionized the industry. And they

happily shared their research with others to make a truly safe environment—

patents and profits notwithstanding.

Welcome to Cianbro, who lists the word “safely” as the third word in their

Corporate Mission Statement: “Cianbro will safely construct quality facilities

on time, and at a competitive price…”

In visiting Cianbro, one quickly learns

that the word “safety” not only means

a healthy work environment—but

more importantly—a dedication to

detail and preparedness. It means

utilizing today’s technology to create

productive tools and practices that

effectively compete in today’s global

economy. It means project management

with the emphasis on the word “manage”.

It’s like my Dad always told me,“Pay attention to the little things, and the big

things tend to take care of themselves.”

Cianbro was listed as number 171 on the prestigious

Engineering News Record’s list of Top 400 Contractors.

See the story on page 7 to find out why Cianbro

is ranked as an industry leader.

A Growing Family Means BusinessCianbro was formed in the late 1940s in a small town in central Maine byfour sons of an Italian immigrant. This small company, then calledCianchette Brothers, would take on just about any job that came along from stacking firewood to grading roads to eventually building small bridgesfor municipalities. Incorporating in 1949, the operation eventually grewlarge enough to take on state highway and bridge projects, municipal sewertreatment work, and other civil projects.

The company continued to grow geographically, adding regions in SouthernNew England and Mid-Atlantic states and to grow in the civil structuralmarkets of bridges and hydroelectric dams. The company changed its nameto Cianbro in the 1960s. By the late ’70s, Cianbro began to diversify furtherby finding opportunities in the paper mills of Maine and New England,leading to the development of industrial mechanical and electrical capabilities. This growth led to projects in power plants, both fossil andnuclear, cement plants, and other industrial and commercial facilities.

Cianbro could plainly see the value of the small steel fabrication shop theymaintained in Pittsfield, Maine. In the 1980s Cianbro fully established afabrication and coatings facility in Pittsfield and supported the constructionteams with all types of temporary structures.

Little by little, the work mix for the “Fab Shop” included permanent fabricated steel for Cianbro projects and later expanded to process nearly50% of its work for non-Cianbro customers.

Y2K Fear? Not in the Cianbro FAB SHOPIn December, 1999, Cianbro decided to give themselves a little Christmaspresent. With the pending Millennium only a few days away, Cianbro faceddown the specter of Y2K, and took delivery of a new CNC controlled fullyautomated Peddinghaus BDL 1250 nine spindle drill line, complete with amiter band saw and material handling system.

At the time, the Cianbro Fab Shop was relatively small. Among shopemployees, the prevailing thinking was that this purchase was premature for Cianbro, and funds could be better spent on other projects. However,within weeks, the Peddinghaus equipment purchase proved to be the catalyst for newfound efficiency, productivity, and cost effectiveness.

Continued on page 8

CIANBRO CORPORATION:

Project Management With an Eye on Safety

Cianbro is a leading supplier to thepower plant industry.

No design is too difficult or demandingfor the Cianbro Group.

Construction of medical facilities haslaunched Cianbro into a new market.

From the Industry Standard Dual Tie-off Safety Harness to their Motivated Work Force,

Cianbro focuses on project management‚ with the emphasis on the word “Manage”.


CIANBRO and Peddinghaus Team Up With Building Modeling, Detailing and MRP Software in Seamless Integration of All Projects

Dave Leavitt, General Manager, Fabrication & Coating of Cianbro, statesit the best, “As our capacity has increased, and our work mix has diversified,Peddinghaus CNC Equipment, and its integration with our detailing software, has become a key element to Productivity and Quality.”

How does a firm get to be listed as number 171 on the prestigiousEngineering News Record’s list of the Top 400 Contractors? Cianbro is ranked as a leader in the following market areas:

• Top 5 in Hydro Plants• Top 10 in Pulp and Paper Facilities• Top 25 in Bridges

To achieve this status, your firm must employ the latest technology in technology and design. A dynamic player in the burgeoning Power Plant market, Cianbro plays all its cards to be competitive and effective.

The integration of technology into Cianbro’s daily operation is a key to their success. The seamless interoperability of all major software with the Peddinghaus equipment has proven to be the real difference in various projects.

Two projects which clearly depict this technological advancement are a hospital in New York and a powerplant in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Pete Vigue, President and CEO ofCianbro advises,“Teamwork, commitment, and personal sacrifice are what differentiate our people and this company from our competitors. It is what allows Cianbro to do some pretty extraordinarythings in the construction industry.

Our team puts its can-do spirit to work every day coming up with innovative and creative solutions for our customer’s needs on a wide variety of projects.”

Leroy Vanadestine – MarketingAlvin Townes – General ForemanNick Rossi – Safety (in harness)Mike Fisher – Job CoordinatorBrian Carr – Baltimore Fabrication

& Coatings Shop Manager

S A F E T YSafety? A construction firm with over 2,000 employees and global presence

is known for Safety? A firm that attacks some of the most sophisticated

building projects in the world—bridges, hydro-electric power plants, pulp

and paper facilities—is most proud of their reputation for Safety?

Welcome to a refreshing respite from the horror stories of the Industrial

Revolution, black lung disease, child labor and labor exploitation tragedies.

Take an insightful view of a firm that actually practices what it preaches

about caring for the health and safety of its employees.

Welcome to a firm that actually engineered and designed a safety harness

for ironworkers walking high steel that revolutionized the industry. And they

happily shared their research with others to make a truly safe environment—

patents and profits notwithstanding.

Welcome to Cianbro, who lists the word “safely” as the third word in their

Corporate Mission Statement: “Cianbro will safely construct quality facilities

on time, and at a competitive price…”

In visiting Cianbro, one quickly learns

that the word “safety” not only means

a healthy work environment—but

more importantly—a dedication to

detail and preparedness. It means

utilizing today’s technology to create

productive tools and practices that

effectively compete in today’s global

economy. It means project management

with the emphasis on the word “manage”.

It’s like my Dad always told me,“Pay attention to the little things, and the big

things tend to take care of themselves.”

Cianbro was listed as number 171 on the prestigious

Engineering News Record’s list of Top 400 Contractors.

See the story on page 7 to find out why Cianbro

is ranked as an industry leader.

A Growing Family Means BusinessCianbro was formed in the late 1940s in a small town in central Maine byfour sons of an Italian immigrant. This small company, then calledCianchette Brothers, would take on just about any job that came along from stacking firewood to grading roads to eventually building small bridgesfor municipalities. Incorporating in 1949, the operation eventually grewlarge enough to take on state highway and bridge projects, municipal sewertreatment work, and other civil projects.

The company continued to grow geographically, adding regions in SouthernNew England and Mid-Atlantic states and to grow in the civil structuralmarkets of bridges and hydroelectric dams. The company changed its nameto Cianbro in the 1960s. By the late ’70s, Cianbro began to diversify furtherby finding opportunities in the paper mills of Maine and New England,leading to the development of industrial mechanical and electrical capabilities. This growth led to projects in power plants, both fossil andnuclear, cement plants, and other industrial and commercial facilities.

Cianbro could plainly see the value of the small steel fabrication shop theymaintained in Pittsfield, Maine. In the 1980s Cianbro fully established afabrication and coatings facility in Pittsfield and supported the constructionteams with all types of temporary structures.

Little by little, the work mix for the “Fab Shop” included permanent fabricated steel for Cianbro projects and later expanded to process nearly50% of its work for non-Cianbro customers.

Y2K Fear? Not in the Cianbro FAB SHOPIn December, 1999, Cianbro decided to give themselves a little Christmaspresent. With the pending Millennium only a few days away, Cianbro faceddown the specter of Y2K, and took delivery of a new CNC controlled fullyautomated Peddinghaus BDL 1250 nine spindle drill line, complete with amiter band saw and material handling system.

At the time, the Cianbro Fab Shop was relatively small. Among shopemployees, the prevailing thinking was that this purchase was premature for Cianbro, and funds could be better spent on other projects. However,within weeks, the Peddinghaus equipment purchase proved to be the catalyst for newfound efficiency, productivity, and cost effectiveness.

Continued on page 8

CIANBRO CORPORATION:

Project Management With an Eye on Safety

Cianbro is a leading supplier to thepower plant industry.

No design is too difficult or demandingfor the Cianbro Group.

Construction of medical facilities haslaunched Cianbro into a new market.

From the Industry Standard Dual Tie-off Safety Harness to their Motivated Work Force,

Cianbro focuses on project management‚ with the emphasis on the word “Manage”.

QQQQQ

QQQQQQ


CIANBRO: Project Management with an Eye on SafetyContinued from page 6

Building Up in BaltimoreIn 2001, Cianbro purchased a 2nd fabrication facility in Baltimore, MD.This shop was FIVE (5) TIMES the size of the Pittsfield shop with about80,000 square feet of floor space. Upon acquiring the property, Cianbrocompletely renovated the building, and outfitted it with the same successfulequipment—Peddinghaus:

• Peddinghaus BDL 1250/9 nine spindle automated structural drill• Peddinghaus 44" miter cutting band saw• Complete material handling system consisting of infeed conveyors and

cross transfers—located in the yard for efficient outdoor loading• Complete material handling system with conveyors and cross transfers

exiting the band saw and infeed for the Peddinghaus BDL 1250 drill• A New Peddinghaus FDB 1500/3 CNC Plasma Plate Processing

Center with capacity for processing light and heavy plate in infeed lengthsof 20 feet.

What Does A Peddinghaus System Actually Deliver?We put some questions to Brian Carr, Cianbro’s Fabrication & CoatingsShop Manager in Baltimore. His responses depict the insight and capabilityof the progressive minds of the Cianbro team.

What was the justification for purchasing the complete PeddinghausProcessing system?

To put Cianbro Fabrication among the elite group of qualified, AISC certified fabricators on the east coast. The system instantly gaveus the capabilities to service the need of our sister company “Cianbrothe Constructor” and gave us the opportunity to take advantage ofthe recent growth of local markets.

In your opinion, how has technology helped your firm?

Technology has made us very competitive. Peddinghaus equipmentand our CNC programming interface seamlessly with our detailingsoftware (X-Steel) allows us to turn around and over projects veryquickly with very accurate results. (Timely, accurate results producemany, many opportunities!)

You have worked closely with Peddinghaus engineering on systems toenhance your operation—describe that process.

We have sought advice from Peddinghaus and have taken their rec-ommendations on material handling to increase our overall efficiencywhich has increased our total tonnage throughput substantially.

How has Peddinghaus service assisted you?

Very little service has been required. The service that was required wastimely and effective. Our equipment, being properly maintained,required very little service. (This reflects the Peddinghaus well builtmachines and high standards!)

Do you recall any specific service experience that stands out?

Recent calibration issues—the experience and knowledge ofPeddinghaus service representatives assisted us through a Waler system project to produce a timely, accurate product. (40" wide flange beams with over 100 holes in each beam with less than 1/8" tolerance)

What are your main markets?

Industrial beam and column, plate and duct work, and marine structures.

How has Peddinghaus enabled you to grow into new markets?

With our Peddinghaus equipment, we do well in local markets andour capabilities are growing rapidly. Our reputation as a “Qualityand Reliable Fabricator” is on the streets and it is producing unlimited opportunities to increase our business. Invitations to bidare arriving on a daily basis and soon we will be an industry leader.

We understand that the productivity of the Peddinghaus drill and sawingsystem has enabled you to increase overall productivity—can you elaborate?

State of the art production equipment including Peddinghaus BDL1250 drill line (9 spindle, up to 1-9/16" holes), Peddinghaus sawcapacity up to a 44 inch beam section and a model FDB 1500/3plasma plate duplicator (flame arc cutting machine and drill, 3 spindle up to 1-9/16" holes)—the equipment has us well suited for 100 ton and heavier projects which we can routinely process on aweekly basis.

Can you share some additional production data from your Peddinghausline?

One word summarizes it all—“Efficiency”. Our Peddinghaus equip-ment, at the present time, allows us to produce in excess of 800 tons(and Pittsfield capacity double) a month or approximately 10,000tons a year. We are producing for diversified markets rapidly gainingknowledge and skills to increase this volume. Our Peddinghaus linemakes it easy for us to focus on production with quality results!

How has Peddinghaus impacted Cianbro?

Peddinghaus has made Cianbro a “Confident Processing Fabricator”ready to take on diverse projects to satisfy our customer needs.

Can you share something with our readers that relatively few people are aware?

Cianbro Fabrication & Coatings Baltimore Facility is AISC certifiedfor buildings, bridges and coatings, ASME certification, full-timeCWI and QA/QC inspector, and SSPC-QP1 and QP2 certified.The 65,000 square foot facility is located on 21 acres with waterfront bulkhead, railroad and over the road access capabilities. Our marine access and modularization capabilities allows delivery of large sections or modules to your site both coastal and inter-coastal locations. Cianbro also has in-house estimating, engineering, detailing and project management capabilities.

By using building modeling software, Cianbro can seamlessly integrate with their Peddinghausequipment to create all ductwork and transitions for large power plant facilities.

QQQQQ

QQQQQQ


CIANBRO: Project Management with an Eye on SafetyContinued from page 6

Building Up in BaltimoreIn 2001, Cianbro purchased a 2nd fabrication facility in Baltimore, MD.This shop was FIVE (5) TIMES the size of the Pittsfield shop with about80,000 square feet of floor space. Upon acquiring the property, Cianbrocompletely renovated the building, and outfitted it with the same successfulequipment—Peddinghaus:

• Peddinghaus BDL 1250/9 nine spindle automated structural drill• Peddinghaus 44" miter cutting band saw• Complete material handling system consisting of infeed conveyors and

cross transfers—located in the yard for efficient outdoor loading• Complete material handling system with conveyors and cross transfers

exiting the band saw and infeed for the Peddinghaus BDL 1250 drill• A New Peddinghaus FDB 1500/3 CNC Plasma Plate Processing

Center with capacity for processing light and heavy plate in infeed lengthsof 20 feet.

What Does A Peddinghaus System Actually Deliver?We put some questions to Brian Carr, Cianbro’s Fabrication & CoatingsShop Manager in Baltimore. His responses depict the insight and capabilityof the progressive minds of the Cianbro team.

What was the justification for purchasing the complete PeddinghausProcessing system?

To put Cianbro Fabrication among the elite group of qualified, AISC certified fabricators on the east coast. The system instantly gaveus the capabilities to service the need of our sister company “Cianbrothe Constructor” and gave us the opportunity to take advantage ofthe recent growth of local markets.

In your opinion, how has technology helped your firm?

Technology has made us very competitive. Peddinghaus equipmentand our CNC programming interface seamlessly with our detailingsoftware (X-Steel) allows us to turn around and over projects veryquickly with very accurate results. (Timely, accurate results producemany, many opportunities!)

You have worked closely with Peddinghaus engineering on systems toenhance your operation—describe that process.

We have sought advice from Peddinghaus and have taken their rec-ommendations on material handling to increase our overall efficiencywhich has increased our total tonnage throughput substantially.

How has Peddinghaus service assisted you?

Very little service has been required. The service that was required wastimely and effective. Our equipment, being properly maintained,required very little service. (This reflects the Peddinghaus well builtmachines and high standards!)

Do you recall any specific service experience that stands out?

Recent calibration issues—the experience and knowledge ofPeddinghaus service representatives assisted us through a Waler system project to produce a timely, accurate product. (40" wide flange beams with over 100 holes in each beam with less than 1/8" tolerance)

What are your main markets?

Industrial beam and column, plate and duct work, and marine structures.

How has Peddinghaus enabled you to grow into new markets?

With our Peddinghaus equipment, we do well in local markets andour capabilities are growing rapidly. Our reputation as a “Qualityand Reliable Fabricator” is on the streets and it is producing unlimited opportunities to increase our business. Invitations to bidare arriving on a daily basis and soon we will be an industry leader.

We understand that the productivity of the Peddinghaus drill and sawingsystem has enabled you to increase overall productivity—can you elaborate?

State of the art production equipment including Peddinghaus BDL1250 drill line (9 spindle, up to 1-9/16" holes), Peddinghaus sawcapacity up to a 44 inch beam section and a model FDB 1500/3plasma plate duplicator (flame arc cutting machine and drill, 3 spindle up to 1-9/16" holes)—the equipment has us well suited for 100 ton and heavier projects which we can routinely process on aweekly basis.

Can you share some additional production data from your Peddinghausline?

One word summarizes it all—“Efficiency”. Our Peddinghaus equip-ment, at the present time, allows us to produce in excess of 800 tons(and Pittsfield capacity double) a month or approximately 10,000tons a year. We are producing for diversified markets rapidly gainingknowledge and skills to increase this volume. Our Peddinghaus linemakes it easy for us to focus on production with quality results!

How has Peddinghaus impacted Cianbro?

Peddinghaus has made Cianbro a “Confident Processing Fabricator”ready to take on diverse projects to satisfy our customer needs.

Can you share something with our readers that relatively few people are aware?

Cianbro Fabrication & Coatings Baltimore Facility is AISC certifiedfor buildings, bridges and coatings, ASME certification, full-timeCWI and QA/QC inspector, and SSPC-QP1 and QP2 certified.The 65,000 square foot facility is located on 21 acres with waterfront bulkhead, railroad and over the road access capabilities. Our marine access and modularization capabilities allows delivery of large sections or modules to your site both coastal and inter-coastal locations. Cianbro also has in-house estimating, engineering, detailing and project management capabilities.

By using building modeling software, Cianbro can seamlessly integrate with their Peddinghausequipment to create all ductwork and transitions for large power plant facilities.


Why are these guys smilin’?.....They’ve just witnessed the new low cost Peddinghaus model 320 Band Saw All shapes for under $16,000!

Peddinghaus Corporation was delighted to host our Distributor Sales meeting September 22 & 23 atour facility in Andrews, SC.Over 75 attendees actively participated in classroom and hands-on trainingof various Peddinghaus products.

Of special interest was the introduction of thenew Peddinghaus horizontal band saw linewhich featured the following NEW models:

• The 320 miter saw which carries a large capacity at a modest price!

• The 410 DGA 2300 is a fully automatic CNCband saw complete with automated in feedshuttle and designed for decades of accurate,productive sawing.

• The model 407A band saw is a work horse forany automated sawing facility providing 24 hour production of 90 degree cutting.

A highlight of the Peddinghaus Distributor SalesMeeting was the award for outstanding sales forCNC Systems and also Ironworkers. In a tightlycontested decision, a most unusual situationoccurred. We had a tie for both categories!

Thanks to you, we experienced one of the most successful distributor sales meetings in the history of Peddinghaus Corporation.

DISTRIBUTOR SALES MEETING SEPTEMBER 22 & 23, 2006

“What a great team Peddinghaus has! I’m proud to be part of it—Thanks for the chance to work with such winners!”

“Best Distributor Sales Meeting I have ever attended!”

“The technical power point presentations were helpful … but the live “hands-on”demos at Andrews were very informative and emphasized the points discussed”

“Your meeting was well organized and informative…I look forward to your nextmeeting as I’m excited about selling each and every Peddinghaus product”

“I will take my enthusiasm for Peddinghaus and pass it on to our Customers!”

WHAT ATTENDEES ARE SAYING:

“

”A W A R D W I N N E R S

Outstanding CNC System Sales

Outstanding Ironworker Sales

Congratulations to our winners for a job very well done!

Everyone enjoyed the sunny South Carolina weather on Saturday afternoon. Over 30 loyal“duffers” enjoyed the beautiful Willbrook CountryClub where pars were scarce, but great camaraderieabounded.

Over 40 hearty fisherman braved the mightyAtlantic in search of the trophy sized catch. More“minnow size” than “trophy size” were caught, and the ocean can “bring out the best in you”, but everyone had a great fish story in the end...

One of our attendees said it best when he commented, “This is great, when is your next meeting—sign me up today!”

—Lyle Menke

AKHURST MACHINERYEdmonton, Alberta Canada

Mr. George McCarthy

ADVANCED MACHINERYPelham, AL

Mr.Tony SmithMr. Kevin Woods

FABRICATING EQUIPMENTHouston, TXMr. Jim Conn


Mr. George McCarthy


Why are these guys smilin’?.....They’ve just witnessed the new low cost Peddinghaus model 320 Band Saw All shapes for under $16,000!

Peddinghaus Corporation was delighted to host our Distributor Sales meeting September 22 & 23 atour facility in Andrews, SC.Over 75 attendees actively participated in classroom and hands-on trainingof various Peddinghaus products.

Of special interest was the introduction of thenew Peddinghaus horizontal band saw linewhich featured the following NEW models:

• The 320 miter saw which carries a large capacity at a modest price!

• The 410 DGA 2300 is a fully automatic CNCband saw complete with automated in feedshuttle and designed for decades of accurate,productive sawing.

• The model 407A band saw is a work horse forany automated sawing facility providing 24 hour production of 90 degree cutting.

A highlight of the Peddinghaus Distributor SalesMeeting was the award for outstanding sales forCNC Systems and also Ironworkers. In a tightlycontested decision, a most unusual situationoccurred. We had a tie for both categories!

Thanks to you, we experienced one of the most successful distributor sales meetings in the history of Peddinghaus Corporation.

DISTRIBUTOR SALES MEETING SEPTEMBER 22 & 23, 2006

“What a great team Peddinghaus has! I’m proud to be part of it—Thanks for the chance to work with such winners!”

“Best Distributor Sales Meeting I have ever attended!”

“The technical power point presentations were helpful … but the live “hands-on”demos at Andrews were very informative and emphasized the points discussed”

“Your meeting was well organized and informative…I look forward to your nextmeeting as I’m excited about selling each and every Peddinghaus product”

“I will take my enthusiasm for Peddinghaus and pass it on to our Customers!”

WHAT ATTENDEES ARE SAYING:

“

”A W A R D W I N N E R S

Outstanding CNC System Sales

Outstanding Ironworker Sales

Congratulations to our winners for a job very well done!

Everyone enjoyed the sunny South Carolina weather on Saturday afternoon. Over 30 loyal“duffers” enjoyed the beautiful Willbrook CountryClub where pars were scarce, but great camaraderieabounded.

Over 40 hearty fisherman braved the mightyAtlantic in search of the trophy sized catch. More“minnow size” than “trophy size” were caught, and the ocean can “bring out the best in you”, but everyone had a great fish story in the end...

One of our attendees said it best when he commented, “This is great, when is your next meeting—sign me up today!”

—Lyle Menke


Mr. George McCarthy

ADVANCED MACHINERYPelham, AL

Mr.Tony SmithMr. Kevin Woods

FABRICATING EQUIPMENTHouston, TXMr. Jim Conn


Mr. George McCarthy


Peddinghaus Corporation

DISTRIBUTORSPeddinghaus distributors are located throughout North America, with one close to you. Our distributors aretrained on Peddinghaus products and applications, andcan assist your search for improved productivity andmachine tool efficiency. Give us a call—the PeddinghausNetwork is ready to assist you!

Our Canadian Distributors


Peddinghaus Corporation

DISTRIBUTORSPeddinghaus distributors are located throughout North America, with one close to you. Our distributors aretrained on Peddinghaus products and applications, andcan assist your search for improved productivity andmachine tool efficiency. Give us a call—the PeddinghausNetwork is ready to assist you!

Our Canadian Distributors


SCHUFFSTEEL,one of the nation’s largest

structural steel

fabricators & erectors

is looking for

EXPERIENCED

PROJECT MANAGERS and

ESTIMATORS.

Schuff offers a competitive salary

structure based on experience, along

with one of the best benefits packages

in the industry.

If you are interested in starting anew career, call Todd Laduron at

6 0 2 . 4 5 2 . 4 4 0 7

or [email protected]

Schuff is an EOEwww.schuff.com

A REMINDERAsk for your FREE COPY of the new Peddinghaus PlasmaMaintenance Manual. This new manual will provide ideas for extending the life and wear of your plasma system on your Peddinghaus Plate Processing System.

For your free copy e-mail plate [email protected] or [email protected]

On October 5th, Peddinghaus Corporation of South Carolina donated to Williamsburg Technical College a

Peddiworker 1050 machine for their welding/fabricating classroom. The presentation was done at the

Tech site, attended by Bob Meltzer, Dr. Cleve Cox (President), Brandon Haselden (Machining Instructor), Jeff

Ball (Welding Instructor), Clifton Elliott (Dean of Instruction) and Mona Dukes (Director of Public Relations).

The partnership between the two has beenan overwhelming success as approximatelyone-third of PCSC employees have come tothe company through Williamsburg Tech.The college extends their heartfelt gratitudeto Anton Peddinghaus and Kevin Winter formaking this donation possible.

The futures of many technical students havebeen initiated by PCSC and in return, thesuccess of PCSC has been solidified with theopportunity to hire trained and experiencedpersonnel with Peddinghaus machinery.

Peddinghaus Donates Peddiworker 1050

“Hosting an event in Las Vegas is always a gamble and this year it paid off,” says Tekla, Inc.President Hans Ehrnrooth.

The record number of attendees representedthree countries and over 30 states. Tekla had representatives from product development, product support as well as representatives fromthe headquarters in Finland.

There were six General Sessions and tenWorkshop Sessions covering 17 different topics.Listed below are the specifics from each program. Presentations are available for those who attended. To request a copy of a specific presentation please email Tekla [email protected].

Of course there was also fun in Vegas On Thursday Dowco Consultants Ltd. hosted a cocktail hour, which included a wonderfulbone-in, honey baked ham. PeddinghausCorporation sponsored the tasteful flank steakand chicken lunch. People were talking the restof the day about the desserts!

Friday night the grand event was the roast beeftenderloin sit-down dinner. After dinner attendees enjoyed faux gambling. At the end of the night David Ball had turned his $1,000into $29,000 and Ron Heigh turned his $1,000into $27,000! Wow.

Tekla User Meeting HeldTekla, Inc hosted the 6th annual Tekla User Meeting August 17-19 at the beautiful Bellagio

Hotel in Las Vegas.

Lyle Menke of Peddinghaus gave a presentation of the current “state of the industry” with

an insightful view of new technologies in process for the structural fabrication shop.

Mr. Clifton Elliott, Dean of Instruction, and Dr. Cleve Cox, President of Williamsburg TechnicalCollege thank Bob Meltzer, Chief Operating Officer of Peddinghaus Corporation (Andrews, SouthCarolina) for the donation of a PeddinghausIronworker for their Technical Training Center.

(L to R) Marvin “Trey” Cribb, Jeff Ball, Bob Meltzer,Brandon Haselden, and Mike Cumbie all agree thathands-on training of eager students is the bestmethod of preparing a workforce for the future.


SCHUFFSTEEL,one of the nation’s largest

structural steel

fabricators & erectors

is looking for

EXPERIENCED

PROJECT MANAGERS and

ESTIMATORS.

Schuff offers a competitive salary

structure based on experience, along

with one of the best benefits packages

in the industry.

If you are interested in starting anew career, call Todd Laduron at

6 0 2 . 4 5 2 . 4 4 0 7

or [email protected]

Schuff is an EOEwww.schuff.com

A REMINDERAsk for your FREE COPY of the new Peddinghaus PlasmaMaintenance Manual. This new manual will provide ideas for extending the life and wear of your plasma system on your Peddinghaus Plate Processing System.

For your free copy e-mail plate [email protected] or [email protected]

On October 5th, Peddinghaus Corporation of South Carolina donated to Williamsburg Technical College a

Peddiworker 1050 machine for their welding/fabricating classroom. The presentation was done at the

Tech site, attended by Bob Meltzer, Dr. Cleve Cox (President), Brandon Haselden (Machining Instructor), Jeff

Ball (Welding Instructor), Clifton Elliott (Dean of Instruction) and Mona Dukes (Director of Public Relations).

The partnership between the two has beenan overwhelming success as approximatelyone-third of PCSC employees have come tothe company through Williamsburg Tech.The college extends their heartfelt gratitudeto Anton Peddinghaus and Kevin Winter formaking this donation possible.

The futures of many technical students havebeen initiated by PCSC and in return, thesuccess of PCSC has been solidified with theopportunity to hire trained and experiencedpersonnel with Peddinghaus machinery.

Peddinghaus Donates Peddiworker 1050

“Hosting an event in Las Vegas is always a gamble and this year it paid off,” says Tekla, Inc.President Hans Ehrnrooth.

The record number of attendees representedthree countries and over 30 states. Tekla had representatives from product development, product support as well as representatives fromthe headquarters in Finland.

There were six General Sessions and tenWorkshop Sessions covering 17 different topics.Listed below are the specifics from each program. Presentations are available for those who attended. To request a copy of a specific presentation please email Tekla [email protected].

Of course there was also fun in Vegas On Thursday Dowco Consultants Ltd. hosted a cocktail hour, which included a wonderfulbone-in, honey baked ham. PeddinghausCorporation sponsored the tasteful flank steakand chicken lunch. People were talking the restof the day about the desserts!

Friday night the grand event was the roast beeftenderloin sit-down dinner. After dinner attendees enjoyed faux gambling. At the end of the night David Ball had turned his $1,000into $29,000 and Ron Heigh turned his $1,000into $27,000! Wow.

Tekla User Meeting HeldTekla, Inc hosted the 6th annual Tekla User Meeting August 17-19 at the beautiful Bellagio

Hotel in Las Vegas.

Lyle Menke of Peddinghaus gave a presentation of the current “state of the industry” with

an insightful view of new technologies in process for the structural fabrication shop.

Mr. Clifton Elliott, Dean of Instruction, and Dr. Cleve Cox, President of Williamsburg TechnicalCollege thank Bob Meltzer, Chief Operating Officer of Peddinghaus Corporation (Andrews, SouthCarolina) for the donation of a PeddinghausIronworker for their Technical Training Center.

(L to R) Marvin “Trey” Cribb, Jeff Ball, Bob Meltzer,Brandon Haselden, and Mike Cumbie all agree thathands-on training of eager students is the bestmethod of preparing a workforce for the future.

The photo above shows the normalwear pattern for the T-A‚ StructuralSteel Drilling System from AMEC.The wear is even across the cuttingedge. When a drill insert wears in this manner, the optimum performance is achieved.

This is an example of OD or marginwear. This condition is a result ofheat created during drilling. This isprobably the most common wearpattern found in the structural steelbeam drilling industry due to themethods used to apply coolant.


Understanding wear patterns is critical to maximize the performance of

your beam and plate drilling applications. Addressing the causes of these

wear patterns reduces tool costs by minimizing breakage, and increases

production by reducing downtime. In the structural drilling industry, the

following patterns are the most prevalent.

Mist systems, or MQL (for minimal quantity lubricant) are used in thebeam and plate industry due to the inability to recycle liquid coolants. Sincethe coolant is not in a closed loop system, MQL is used. MQL is substantially better than machining dry, but it is less effective than highervolume coolant systems.

To alleviate this symptom, reduce the RPM of the drill. This will lower theheat being created in the cut, extending the tool life. AMEC’s T-A‚ drillinserts are produced with the latest technology in the field of tool coatingsto combat this problem. The T-A‚ Structural Steel Drilling System tools arecoated with TiAlN, which offers excellent heat resistance. Another option isto use our GEN2 T-A‚ drilling system. These inserts are coated withAM200, a proprietary coating that allows the highest level of heat resistancein the industry.

An extreme case of OD or margin wear results in a burned step in the tool.This is caused by excessive heat in the cut, and should be corrected by reducing

RPM. To find out the correct RPM, measure the resulting burned diameter and divide this number by the originalinsert diameter. Running at 90% of thisnumber will result in a setting which eliminates the step.

An example is a 13/16" diameter tool witha burn diameter of .765". Divide .765 by.812 getting .942. The tool was originallyrunning at 900 RPM, so multiply 900 by.942 resulting in 850 RPM. Reduce thisnumber by 10% to ensure even wear, and the tool should be run at 770 RPM for optimum performance.

The next photo is an example of edge chipping. This occurs when the beamor plate being machined has substantial voids and or porosity. To correct his problem, lower the RPM of the tool and lower the feed rate. Runningthe tool slower will lessen the impact of the hard spots in the beam andminimize the chipping that occurs. The Super Cobalt substrate offered inthe T-A‚ Structural Steel Drilling System allows a high level of wear resistance while maintaining toughness to minimize chipping.

Another solution is to utilize standard T-A‚Drilling System Inserts made from M-4.This material is not as wear resistant as theSuper Cobalt, but is less susceptible to chipping. Information on the complete line of T-A‚ drilling products can be found in our full line catalog, T-A‚ and ASC 320‚ Drilling Products catalog number TAASC-05.

A more extreme example of chipping is fracturing. This is caused by unintendedimpact with the beam or plate, or by excessive movement during the drillingcycle. To minimize this, make sure the rapid feed stops a minimum of 1/8" fromthe workpiece and ensure that the part being drilled is secured to minimizemovement.

Excessive point wear is a symptom of abeam or plate that is excessively hard, orthere is excessive spindle run out. Oftenwhen drilling a beam or plate that has been flame cut, the bolt holes aredrilled near the heat affected zone of the workpiece. The heat affected zonecan be considerably harder than the other parts of the beam or plate. Whendrilling in this area, the point of the tool can wear prematurely.

If the issue is excessive spindle runout, replacing the spindle extension, orusing an appropriate length T-A‚ Structural Steel Drilling System holder willcorrect the problem. If the spindle itself is loose, rebuilding the spindle willbe necessary to correct the problem.

If you are experiencing any problems with your T-A‚ Structural SteelDrilling System tools, please contact Peddinghaus or AMEC’s ApplicationEngineering Group at 800-321-5537 in the US, Mexico, or Canada, 330-343-4283 from all other areas.

For reprints contact [email protected]

ALLIED MACHINE & ENGINEERING CORP.

Penetrating Tips on Successful Structural and Plate Drilling

An extreme case of OD or margin wearresults in a "burned step" in the tool.

“Edge Chipping” occurs when thebeam or plate being machined hassustained voids or porosity.

Excessive Point Wear is a symptomof a beam or plate that is excessivelyhard or excessive spindle run out

The photo above shows the normalwear pattern for the T-A‚ StructuralSteel Drilling System from AMEC.The wear is even across the cuttingedge. When a drill insert wears in this manner, the optimum performance is achieved.

This is an example of OD or marginwear. This condition is a result ofheat created during drilling. This isprobably the most common wearpattern found in the structural steelbeam drilling industry due to themethods used to apply coolant.


Understanding wear patterns is critical to maximize the performance of

your beam and plate drilling applications. Addressing the causes of these

wear patterns reduces tool costs by minimizing breakage, and increases

production by reducing downtime. In the structural drilling industry, the

following patterns are the most prevalent.

Mist systems, or MQL (for minimal quantity lubricant) are used in thebeam and plate industry due to the inability to recycle liquid coolants. Sincethe coolant is not in a closed loop system, MQL is used. MQL is substantially better than machining dry, but it is less effective than highervolume coolant systems.

To alleviate this symptom, reduce the RPM of the drill. This will lower theheat being created in the cut, extending the tool life. AMEC’s T-A‚ drillinserts are produced with the latest technology in the field of tool coatingsto combat this problem. The T-A‚ Structural Steel Drilling System tools arecoated with TiAlN, which offers excellent heat resistance. Another option isto use our GEN2 T-A‚ drilling system. These inserts are coated withAM200, a proprietary coating that allows the highest level of heat resistancein the industry.

An extreme case of OD or margin wear results in a burned step in the tool.This is caused by excessive heat in the cut, and should be corrected by reducing

RPM. To find out the correct RPM, measure the resulting burned diameter and divide this number by the originalinsert diameter. Running at 90% of thisnumber will result in a setting which eliminates the step.

An example is a 13/16" diameter tool witha burn diameter of .765". Divide .765 by.812 getting .942. The tool was originallyrunning at 900 RPM, so multiply 900 by.942 resulting in 850 RPM. Reduce thisnumber by 10% to ensure even wear, and the tool should be run at 770 RPM for optimum performance.

The next photo is an example of edge chipping. This occurs when the beamor plate being machined has substantial voids and or porosity. To correct his problem, lower the RPM of the tool and lower the feed rate. Runningthe tool slower will lessen the impact of the hard spots in the beam andminimize the chipping that occurs. The Super Cobalt substrate offered inthe T-A‚ Structural Steel Drilling System allows a high level of wear resistance while maintaining toughness to minimize chipping.

Another solution is to utilize standard T-A‚Drilling System Inserts made from M-4.This material is not as wear resistant as theSuper Cobalt, but is less susceptible to chipping. Information on the complete line of T-A‚ drilling products can be found in our full line catalog, T-A‚ and ASC 320‚ Drilling Products catalog number TAASC-05.

A more extreme example of chipping is fracturing. This is caused by unintendedimpact with the beam or plate, or by excessive movement during the drillingcycle. To minimize this, make sure the rapid feed stops a minimum of 1/8" fromthe workpiece and ensure that the part being drilled is secured to minimizemovement.

Excessive point wear is a symptom of abeam or plate that is excessively hard, orthere is excessive spindle run out. Oftenwhen drilling a beam or plate that has been flame cut, the bolt holes aredrilled near the heat affected zone of the workpiece. The heat affected zonecan be considerably harder than the other parts of the beam or plate. Whendrilling in this area, the point of the tool can wear prematurely.

If the issue is excessive spindle runout, replacing the spindle extension, orusing an appropriate length T-A‚ Structural Steel Drilling System holder willcorrect the problem. If the spindle itself is loose, rebuilding the spindle willbe necessary to correct the problem.

If you are experiencing any problems with your T-A‚ Structural SteelDrilling System tools, please contact Peddinghaus or AMEC’s ApplicationEngineering Group at 800-321-5537 in the US, Mexico, or Canada, 330-343-4283 from all other areas.

For reprints contact [email protected]

ALLIED MACHINE & ENGINEERING CORP.

Penetrating Tips on Successful Structural and Plate Drilling

An extreme case of OD or margin wearresults in a "burned step" in the tool.

“Edge Chipping” occurs when thebeam or plate being machined hassustained voids or porosity.

Excessive Point Wear is a symptomof a beam or plate that is excessivelyhard or excessive spindle run out


North Shore Supply Co., Houston, started out 51 years ago. Many companies that age suffer through growing pains, but NSSCO has defined a formula for success and implemented technologies that have led to furthergrowth and customer satisfaction. “NSSCO is a family-owned business that was started in 1955 in one building and has grown over the years into a corporation with five divisions and more than 275 employees," says ClydeRushing, fabrication division manager. The structural steel fabrication division was started 20 years ago with one building and six employees. Today, NSSCO’s fabrication division has a more than 100,000-square-footbuilding and 65 employees.”

The steel warehouse division sells “shapes, plates, grating—a full-range ofsteel, including all the wide-flange beams, channels, angles and flat bar,” saysRushing. In addition, it sells “a lot of plate. Most of it is domestic, but wedo import some of the steel.” He notes that the company has grown quitelarge over the last couple of years and forecasts that NSSCO will soon reachmore than $100 million in sales.

NSSCO’s customers include power plants, chemical plants and refineriesthroughout the United States and overseas. “Right now we just completed a3,500-ton job for Dow Chemical Co. in Freeport, Texas,” Rushing notes.“As soon as we finish that job, they awarded us another large project, about4,000 tons. It is a large chemical plant that is going over to Qatar and willbe owned by several large companies, including Chevron.” The companyalso does work that is exported to Nigeria, Angola, the Middle East andEgypt, Rushing says.

Abandoning Old-Fashioned MethodsAs it grows, the company has put a priority on updating its equipment.“About 10 years ago, NSSCO set out to be a diverse, technology-drivenorganization, providing steel products, steel services and material handlingproducts in a global economy. We have expanded our current markets andgrown into new markets by providing outstanding customer service,”Rushing notes.

“Two years ago, we made connection plates the ‘old-fashioned way,’” says Rushing. “We made templates for each plate, laid out the holes andpunched each hole. This process was time consuming and labor intensive. It required that we move each plate to different work stations in order tocomplete it.”

Now the company has two Peddinghaus drill lines, one new BDL-1250nine-spindle drill line with a new 1140 band saw and one TDK-1000,three-spindle drill line. In addition, it has the Peddinghaus FPB 1800 platemachine, AFPS 645 Anglemaster and several Peddinghaus ironworkers.

The FPB 1800 plate machine with a plasma burner allows the company to get away from those out-of-date methods and speed up operations. “This Peddinghaus machine will process plate up to 1 1/4 inch thick and 72 inches wide,” says Rushing. “Now all plate operations take place in onelocation in the shop and take up less shop space. We now download electronic files into the machine and have the capability to make up to1,200 plates per day. The new Peddinghaus plate machine has increased ourefficiency and increased our capacity to produce plates by about 50 percent.Today we have one machine operator instead of the three to four peoplerequired to produce plates before.”

Continued on page 20

The following is reprinted courtesy of

Planning for the FutureBy Lauren Duensing

Peddinghaus plate machines push North Shore Supply Co. toward continued growth

The exceptional accuracy of the Peddinghaus FPB 1800 provides plasma cut parts in anylength or contour shape.

To meet their customer’s delivery requirements, NSSCO invested in "Speed Sawing"Technology from Peddinghaus which increases saw output by 40% over previous methods.


North Shore Supply Co., Houston, started out 51 years ago. Many companies that age suffer through growing pains, but NSSCO has defined a formula for success and implemented technologies that have led to furthergrowth and customer satisfaction. “NSSCO is a family-owned business that was started in 1955 in one building and has grown over the years into a corporation with five divisions and more than 275 employees," says ClydeRushing, fabrication division manager. The structural steel fabrication division was started 20 years ago with one building and six employees. Today, NSSCO’s fabrication division has a more than 100,000-square-footbuilding and 65 employees.”

The steel warehouse division sells “shapes, plates, grating—a full-range ofsteel, including all the wide-flange beams, channels, angles and flat bar,” saysRushing. In addition, it sells “a lot of plate. Most of it is domestic, but wedo import some of the steel.” He notes that the company has grown quitelarge over the last couple of years and forecasts that NSSCO will soon reachmore than $100 million in sales.

NSSCO’s customers include power plants, chemical plants and refineriesthroughout the United States and overseas. “Right now we just completed a3,500-ton job for Dow Chemical Co. in Freeport, Texas,” Rushing notes.“As soon as we finish that job, they awarded us another large project, about4,000 tons. It is a large chemical plant that is going over to Qatar and willbe owned by several large companies, including Chevron.” The companyalso does work that is exported to Nigeria, Angola, the Middle East andEgypt, Rushing says.

Abandoning Old-Fashioned MethodsAs it grows, the company has put a priority on updating its equipment.“About 10 years ago, NSSCO set out to be a diverse, technology-drivenorganization, providing steel products, steel services and material handlingproducts in a global economy. We have expanded our current markets andgrown into new markets by providing outstanding customer service,”Rushing notes.

“Two years ago, we made connection plates the ‘old-fashioned way,’” says Rushing. “We made templates for each plate, laid out the holes andpunched each hole. This process was time consuming and labor intensive. It required that we move each plate to different work stations in order tocomplete it.”

Now the company has two Peddinghaus drill lines, one new BDL-1250nine-spindle drill line with a new 1140 band saw and one TDK-1000,three-spindle drill line. In addition, it has the Peddinghaus FPB 1800 platemachine, AFPS 645 Anglemaster and several Peddinghaus ironworkers.

The FPB 1800 plate machine with a plasma burner allows the company to get away from those out-of-date methods and speed up operations. “This Peddinghaus machine will process plate up to 1 1/4 inch thick and 72 inches wide,” says Rushing. “Now all plate operations take place in onelocation in the shop and take up less shop space. We now download electronic files into the machine and have the capability to make up to1,200 plates per day. The new Peddinghaus plate machine has increased ourefficiency and increased our capacity to produce plates by about 50 percent.Today we have one machine operator instead of the three to four peoplerequired to produce plates before.”

Continued on page 20

The following is reprinted courtesy of

Planning for the FutureBy Lauren Duensing

Peddinghaus plate machines push North Shore Supply Co. toward continued growth

The exceptional accuracy of the Peddinghaus FPB 1800 provides plasma cut parts in anylength or contour shape.

To meet their customer’s delivery requirements, NSSCO invested in "Speed Sawing"Technology from Peddinghaus which increases saw output by 40% over previous methods.


Job #D089-0075M (Design Data - Global Ad)Color 4/CSize: Live - 8.5" x 11"

Trim - 9" x 12"Bleed - 9.25" x 12.25"

Pub: Steel Fabricators ReviewSwanson Russell Associates

www.sds2.com 800.443.0782 402.441.4000 e-mail: [email protected]

Copyright ® 2006 Design Data, Inc. All rights reserved.

For 25 years, SDS/2 has made its mark on the world. Design Data’s SDS/2 Steel Detailing System

has simplified and automated the design, detailing, fabricating and erecting of structures across

the globe. SDS/2 delivers connection design and customizable details, saving our customers time

and money. Across the globe, customers benefit from the dedication and experience behind SDS/2.

Connect your partners, your products and your steel today with the world of SDS/2. For details

on SDS/2 and how you can earn Silver Steelbucks call or visit our website today.

>>> SPLASH DOWN DUNES WATER PARK (NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE)

>>> ANTAMINA COPPER MINE(ANDES MOUNTAINS, PERU)

>>> DONALDSON PLANT(WUXI, CHINA)

CONNECTING STEEL ACROSS THE GLOBE.

NORTH SHORE: Planning for the Future


Picking PeddinghausBefore deciding on a machine, NSSCO traveled around the country looking at several manufacturers of fabricating equipment. “We talked withmachine operators, plant managers and owners,” Rushing said. “We went toseveral plants in Texas, South Carolina and Florida to evaluate equipmentand operations. After our tours, evaluation and analysis of our specificneeds, we went with Peddinghaus because the machines are rugged, madespecifically for the heavy structural steel fabricating industry and haveproven themselves over the years to be the most durable machine made. Our customers are always impressed when they tour our shop and see theseheavy-duty machines in operation.”

Rushing also notes that training is an easy process for the company’soperators. “Peddinghaus has a training operation just outside of Chicago inBradley, and each time we buy a machine from them, we send two of ourguys to Bradley to train for about a week. It works out really well. Theytrain on the computer part of the machine and the operations part of themachine. Our guys are really experienced at what they do here in readingdrawings and that sort of thing. They have good computer skills and goodmechanical skills, as far as knowing that part of the job. The training theyneed, of course, is operating the machine itself.”

Then when the machine ships down here, Peddinghaus sends one of itsinstallation men, who are also pretty good trainers. They install themachine, and we do another week of training here on-site.”

NSSCO believes that adding these Peddinghaus machines has increased itsefficiency by about 30 percent. “We’re able to fabricate a lot more steel thanwhat we did before we purchased the Peddinghaus machines.”

In addition, the company has been able to integrate its employees into otheractivities due to the newfound efficiency. “That is part of how we grew,”says Rushing. “We just hired about 20 additional people over the last yearbecause of our increased capacity and increased work.”

All of these changes have made the company more competitive. “First of all,it makes us able to handle the larger jobs,” says Rushing. “Ten years ago a500-ton job was a huge job for us. And this past year, we just did a 3,500-ton job. We’re able to do jobs that we weren’t able to bid on before becauseour capacity was limited.”

The company is still looking for expansion opportunities. “We are currentlyin the construction phase of our fabrication plant that will add about17,000 square feet of space,” Rushing notes. “We are expanding today tomeet the needs of our customers tomorrow.” MM

North Shore maintains an extensive inventory of structural sections to meet client shipping deadlines. This investment insures their customers do not wait for steel onurgent projects.

“The new Peddinghaus FPB 1800 plasma plate machine has increased our efficiency andincreased our capacity to produce plates by about 50 percent over previous methods,”according to Mr. Rushing.

Reuben Rodriguez and ArthurCervantes Production Manager andAnglemaster/Drill Operator (respectively) of North Shore Steel


Job #D089-0075M (Design Data - Global Ad)Color 4/CSize: Live - 8.5" x 11"

Trim - 9" x 12"Bleed - 9.25" x 12.25"

Pub: Steel Fabricators ReviewSwanson Russell Associates

www.sds2.com 800.443.0782 402.441.4000 e-mail: [email protected]

Copyright ® 2006 Design Data, Inc. All rights reserved.

For 25 years, SDS/2 has made its mark on the world. Design Data’s SDS/2 Steel Detailing System

has simplified and automated the design, detailing, fabricating and erecting of structures across

the globe. SDS/2 delivers connection design and customizable details, saving our customers time

and money. Across the globe, customers benefit from the dedication and experience behind SDS/2.

Connect your partners, your products and your steel today with the world of SDS/2. For details

on SDS/2 and how you can earn Silver Steelbucks call or visit our website today.

>>> SPLASH DOWN DUNES WATER PARK (NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE)

>>> ANTAMINA COPPER MINE(ANDES MOUNTAINS, PERU)

>>> DONALDSON PLANT(WUXI, CHINA)

CONNECTING STEEL ACROSS THE GLOBE.

NORTH SHORE: Planning for the Future


Picking PeddinghausBefore deciding on a machine, NSSCO traveled around the country looking at several manufacturers of fabricating equipment. “We talked withmachine operators, plant managers and owners,” Rushing said. “We went toseveral plants in Texas, South Carolina and Florida to evaluate equipmentand operations. After our tours, evaluation and analysis of our specificneeds, we went with Peddinghaus because the machines are rugged, madespecifically for the heavy structural steel fabricating industry and haveproven themselves over the years to be the most durable machine made. Our customers are always impressed when they tour our shop and see theseheavy-duty machines in operation.”

Rushing also notes that training is an easy process for the company’soperators. “Peddinghaus has a training operation just outside of Chicago inBradley, and each time we buy a machine from them, we send two of ourguys to Bradley to train for about a week. It works out really well. Theytrain on the computer part of the machine and the operations part of themachine. Our guys are really experienced at what they do here in readingdrawings and that sort of thing. They have good computer skills and goodmechanical skills, as far as knowing that part of the job. The training theyneed, of course, is operating the machine itself.”

Then when the machine ships down here, Peddinghaus sends one of itsinstallation men, who are also pretty good trainers. They install themachine, and we do another week of training here on-site.”

NSSCO believes that adding these Peddinghaus machines has increased itsefficiency by about 30 percent. “We’re able to fabricate a lot more steel thanwhat we did before we purchased the Peddinghaus machines.”

In addition, the company has been able to integrate its employees into otheractivities due to the newfound efficiency. “That is part of how we grew,”says Rushing. “We just hired about 20 additional people over the last yearbecause of our increased capacity and increased work.”

All of these changes have made the company more competitive. “First of all,it makes us able to handle the larger jobs,” says Rushing. “Ten years ago a500-ton job was a huge job for us. And this past year, we just did a 3,500-ton job. We’re able to do jobs that we weren’t able to bid on before becauseour capacity was limited.”

The company is still looking for expansion opportunities. “We are currentlyin the construction phase of our fabrication plant that will add about17,000 square feet of space,” Rushing notes. “We are expanding today tomeet the needs of our customers tomorrow.” MM

North Shore maintains an extensive inventory of structural sections to meet client shipping deadlines. This investment insures their customers do not wait for steel onurgent projects.

“The new Peddinghaus FPB 1800 plasma plate machine has increased our efficiency andincreased our capacity to produce plates by about 50 percent over previous methods,”according to Mr. Rushing.

Reuben Rodriguez and ArthurCervantes Production Manager andAnglemaster/Drill Operator (respectively) of North Shore Steel


The Phoenix fire department is trained to save people and their homes,

but when they wanted to save the environment, they asked for our help. As part of Nucor,

the world’s largest recycler, we provided their new fire station with beams manufactured from recycled steel.

Providing just the kind of support they needed to build Arizona’s first ever LEED® certified fire station.

A building that helps save lives, homes, and the environment, all at the same time.

www.nucoryamato.com

It’s Our Nature.®

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40315 NUC Steel Fabricators 10/4/06 9:39 AM Page 1


The Phoenix fire department is trained to save people and their homes,

but when they wanted to save the environment, they asked for our help. As part of Nucor,

the world’s largest recycler, we provided their new fire station with beams manufactured from recycled steel.

Providing just the kind of support they needed to build Arizona’s first ever LEED® certified fire station.

A building that helps save lives, homes, and the environment, all at the same time.

www.nucoryamato.com

It’s Our Nature.®

Phot

o co

urte

sy o

f D

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ssoc

iate

s A

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40315 NUC Steel Fabricators 10/4/06 9:39 AM Page 1

24 STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEW FALL 2006

F A B R I C A T O R S M A K I N G T O D A Y ’ S S K Y L I N E P O S S I B L E

VOLUME 20 NEWS FOR THE STRUCTURAL STEEL & PLATE FABRICATOR www.peddinghaus.com

STEEL FABRICATOR’S REVIEWWashington and Grove StreetBradley, IL 60915

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 157

Joliet, IL

Like many people here in the Midwest, I enjoy thechange of seasons. I am especially fond of the FallSeason as the air is crisp, and the autumn foliagecolors are breathtaking.

But the main reason I enjoy the Fall Season isbecause of the business challenges that seem to arise this time of year. The vacation season of summer is over, and fabricators are already “getting down to business.” Nothing is more evident than this Fall of 2006.

The past months seem like a whirlwind of con-stant activity for the steel construction industry.Structural fabricators report increased projects andrenewed activity in many sectors of fabrication:from high rise to commercial to industrial (and

everything in between). But this vibrant economy brings challenges as well. Let’slook at two areas that are challenging to us all.

Good Maintenance Always Multiplies Your Machine Investment Many new structural fabricators have made the investment in new automatedCNC equipment. We always advise our customers that the best insurance formachine longevity is qualified, daily maintenance. Think of your machine toolas the real long-term investment that it really is. Think in terms of that machineas you would your own home. Daily maintenance and care are needed to keepthem both in top shape and retain their value in the market.

Here’s a simple exercise for those of you with CNC structural drills. Take thedrill chips and spiral coils, wrap them up, and tuck a few in your socks—rightby your ankle. Start walking, and see how far you can go. As you find out, thispretty much prohibits walking and sitting becomes pretty uncomfortable as well.Now you know how your drill feels when it is clogged with steel chips. Clean itup, do some maintenance, and your investment will retain higher value andserve you longer.

Implement a maintenance plan—and stick to it. Not just a short term, but an annual assessment of your machine. If you have one of our Plasma Platemachines, order our plasma maintenance manual (see page 15). This simple document outlines exactly the steps to extend the life and quality of yourPeddinghaus plasma system.

Put some spare parts on the shelf. Wear and tear or consumable componentsare valuable tools when you are working on a job with a tight deadline. It’s a lot easier taking a part off your shelf than waiting for the Fedex guy toarrive at 10:30 am tomorrow.

Shop Labor Challenges Us AllThe very best part of my position as CEO of Peddinghaus is visiting structuralsteel fabricators, and discussing the “state of the industry”. These conversationsare always enjoyable and enlightening. I have had the opportunity to travel and discuss fabrication practices with structural people on every continent ofour world. The one amazing item that keeps popping up repeatedly in our

conversations is the common theme—Shop Labor.

The most repeated comment is, “I can’t find qualified people to work in myshop.” Closely followed by, “Can you help me find good layout or fit-up people?”Or the most common is, “Hey, I need welders—how do you get good ones?”

It is not too hard to find hard evidence of the shop labor difficulties:1. Fabricators in the Southeast recruit welders from Latin America, and are

constructing “dormitories” near their shop facilities to house them.2. Fabricators in Canada recruit fitters and layout people from eastern Europe

and maintain housing for them as well3. The upcoming Fabtech/AWS show is sponsoring a “Recruitment Center”

for all personnel—but especially welders, and shop people.

Thus, it is a universal problem. And yes, Peddinghaus shares the same challengesyou face. As you know from our last issue, we have under taken a major capitalimprovement project in the past six months, highlighted by a $1.5M investmentin new machining centers, a 63,000 square foot expansion of our shop warehousing area, and three new sawing systems to improve labor productivity.

R & D—We’re Listening to What You’re SayingThe most intriguing area of Peddinghaus’ investment is in Research andDevelopment. We have a great facility in which we are finalizing and testingproducts which we believe address the very issues we describe above. We areexcited about the potential – as are our industry business partners who haveviewed the equipment with our engineering staff.

Our Engineers are busily working on the Peddinghaus concept of The Fab Shopof the Future. A Future that Peddinghaus looks forward to sharing with you—very soon.

In today’s corporate society, many firms quicklydevelop identification labels. These labels arebased on their reputation or performance in a specific industry or market segment. Just like yourreputation, your corporate identity tends to stickwith you. Microsoft is Windows Software;Southwest Airlines is reliable no/frills flying;Enron—well, we all know Enron’s label.

Cianbro Corporation, Pittsfield, ME is proud to be known as an employee owned firm dedicated to Safety…

Full story on page 5

TABLE OF CONTENTSCodeme

Building Success from Higher Education 2CIANBRO

Project Performance the Safe Way 5Peddinghaus Annual Distributors Meeting

Sales meeting recap 10Peddinghaus Distributors

Location map 12Tekla

User meeting recap 14Allied Machine

Penetrating Tips on Successful Structural and Plate Drilling 16

North Shore Supply Co.Planning for the Future 18

CODEME: Building SUCCESS from Higher EDUCATIONHow many times have you heard college students admit, “I’m not sure what my future is after college”,or “I hope I obtain a job in the field of my choice”.

College students are always filled with apprehensionwhen they consider the future. What is out there forme? Is this a step in the right direction for mycareer? Some surveys even reveal that less than30% of college graduates obtain a position in the field of their study.

Let me tell you a story about four college engineering students. Four students who worked their waythrough a challenging college curriculum to receive their diplomas. Four students who became fastfriends in time spent together studying and sharing college life.

Continued on page 2

CIANBRO: Project Performance the Safe Way

ALLIED: Penetrating Tipson Successful Structural and Plate Drilling

…Critical to maximizing the performance of your

beam and plate drilling applications. Addressing

the causes of these wear patterns reduces tool

costs by minimizing breakage, and increases

production by reducing downtime. The patterns

most prevalent in the structural drilling industry

are described, and solutions to alleviate uneven

wear are offered.

See full story on page 16

Anton Peddinghaus

Alvin Townes, Leroy Vanadestine, and Brian Carr ofCianbro Corporation, Pittsfield, Maine, a proud memberof ENR’s list of Top 400 Contractors.

Alberto Woods Soares Neto, Dalton Paulo Simoes Utsch,and Ademar De Carvalho B. Filho of Codeme EngenhariaS.A., A Premier Structural Fabricator in Brazil.

Documents

Peddinghaus Steel Fabricators' Review Fall 2006