Allmet Engineering cuts production time with in-house TRUMPF laser technology

In the competitive steel fabrication industry, Allmet Engineering has set its sights on operational excellence and customer satisfaction as the keys to success. Allmet recognised the need to streamline its processes and enhance its service delivery. This case study explores how Allmet leveraged TRUMPF’s fibre laser cutting technology (or TRUMPF TruLaser 5030 fiber to streamline its fabrication processes, improve customer satisfaction, and reinforce its reputation as an industry leader.

About Allmet Engineering: Allmet, a family-owned steel fabrication company based in Wacol, Brisbane, has over 35 years of experience providing steel fabrication services for light- to heavy-duty needs. Serving various sectors, including mining, transport, defence, infrastructure, construction, food and beverage, and aviation, Allmet offers tailored solutions for products crafted from mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium. Recognising a need to enhance service quality, Allmet brought its laser cutting services in-house, a move that would allow the company greater control over its processes, outcomes, and lead times, benefiting its clients through faster project turnaround and improved process transparency. More about Allmet Engineering

Challenge

Allmet Engineering identified a key opportunity to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of Allmet’s fabrication process. Traditionally, outsourcing laser cutting to third-party suppliers meant waiting several days for parts to arrive. This delay not only affected lead times but also limited Allmet’s control over quality and progress updates, which were critical for delivering on client expectations. Bringing laser services on-site would allow Allmet to streamline production, reduce dependence on external suppliers, and offer more immediate and flexible services to customers. To achieve this, Allmet needed a reliable and high-performance laser cutting machine that could operate autonomously, allowing for smoother integration with their existing processes.

Solution

Allmet turned to Headland Technology to supply the laser cutting equipment, having worked with us previously. We recommended the TRUMPF TruLaser 5030 fiber with advanced automation capabilities to reduce manual intervention and enhance operational efficiency. The machine’s autonomous functionality enabled them to run the system with minimal oversight and focus on other production needs. Our team of experts provided guidance throughout the selection process, ensuring Allmet’s requirements were met.

Implementation

The integration of the TRUMPF laser cutting machine was seamless, with initial setup and integration into Allmet’s operations proceeding smoothly. With support from our service team, Allmet quickly adapted to the machine’s features, which allowed for autonomous operation. Our clear communication and rapid response to any enquiries facilitated a smooth onboarding process, making it easy for Allmet to incorporate the machine into its production workflows.

As Allmet looks to the future, they plan to enhance the machine’s integration by connecting it to their software for even more streamlined operations. This future upgrade would enable better data tracking and automation within the fabrication process, further improving efficiency and productivity.

Results and impact

Since implementing the laser cutting machine, Allmet Engineering has experienced significant operational benefits. The in-house laser cutting capability has drastically reduced lead times, enabling Allmet to handle urgent customer requests without relying on external suppliers. Where they previously had to wait several days for outsourced parts, they can now deliver same-day laser cutting services when needed, providing a competitive edge in responsiveness and customer satisfaction.

Additionally, Allmet has gained better control over quality and process visibility, which has improved both the consistency of their output and client confidence. The company can now monitor the fabrication process from start to finish, providing clients with progress updates and ensuring a higher standard of service.

Competitive advantage and future outlook

With the new laser-cutting machine, Allmet has solidified its position as a forward-thinking leader in the fabrication industry. The ability to maintain the entire fabrication process on-site has set them apart from competitors, allowing them to offer more reliable turnaround times, superior quality control, and peace of mind for clients. Customers appreciate the added value of knowing that their products are closely monitored at every stage, providing assurance that their requirements are met promptly and accurately.

While Allmet is currently satisfied with the machine’s capabilities, they remain open to future enhancements that could further optimise the technology’s integration with its operations. The potential for software connectivity stands as the next step, paving the way for increased automation and efficiency.

Allmet Engineering’s investment in an in-house laser cutting solution has proven transformative for their business, yielding measurable improvements in lead times, control over production, and customer satisfaction. Our expertise and support have been instrumental in this success, providing Allmet with a reliable, high-performance machine and the guidance needed for seamless integration. This case exemplifies how strategic investments in automation and technology can drive substantial operational benefits and strengthen a company’s position in a competitive market.

Conclusion

Allmet Engineering’s investment in an in-house laser cutting solution has proven transformative for their business, yielding measurable improvements in lead times, control over production, and customer satisfaction. Our expertise and support have been instrumental in this success, providing Allmet with a reliable, high-performance machine and the guidance needed for seamless integration. This case exemplifies how strategic investments in automation and technology can drive substantial operational benefits and strengthen a company’s position in a competitive market.

Are you a steel metal fabrication company and struggle with long lead times, inconsistent quality, and limited visibility in your production processes?

Contact our TRUMPF experts regarding laser cutting technology and their deep understanding of the steel fabrication industry and how you can improve lead times, quality control, and enhanced customer satisfaction – all of which can strengthen your competitive position in the market.