While the metal fabrication industry is shifting and impacting certain markets such as China, Europe and the U.S.A, it is poised to have a positive outlook in the coming years. It has long been the backbone of the entire manufacturing sector in Ontario and the end-user market relies heavily on the industry.

This ranges from electronics, construction, automotive, aerospace, energy and power, through to defense, among others – all of which depend on solid and precise metal fabrication.

Current trends show that demand for metal fabrication, particularly laser cutting services in Ontario, continues to increase. This drives companies operating in the industry to adopt new strategies and technologies to spur growth in the market. Here are the four major trends that are influencing how metal fabricators do their work:

Automation

The metal fabrication industry is witnessing the rise of robotics technology, making automation even more attractive to most shops. This trend rapidly changes the way things work in the industry. Automating crucial processes, such as laser cutting with CNC capabilities, helps optimize business operations and minimize costs. 

Additive Manufacturing (3D printing)

3D printing technology is expected to grow very rapidly in the coming years and shape the future of most industries. It provides an amazing opportunity to create both simple and complex tools and parts while eliminating design issues associated with the traditional processes. A number of metal fabrication services are now done using additive manufacturing with 3D printing. This is mainly because the technology promotes innovation and increases efficiency.

Enterprise Resource Planning Solutions

ERP solutions are most significant for metal fabrication businesses that operate in several facilities or locations. This tool provides strategic enterprise planning and management and offers real-time data analysis for monitoring business operations. This can streamline operations.

Manufacturing regionalization

Also known as reshoring or nearshoring, this trend is now embraced by many metal fabricators. The rise of this movement is due to key drivers including rising transport costs, market volatility risks, and increasing foreign wages. This shift to onshore model means manufacturing services are closer to the marketplace. More and more regional players are now adopting this continuing trend. Companies offering laser cutting and other metal fabrication services should boost their local capabilities to stay relevant in the marketplace. Contact us today to learn more about metal fabrication in Ontario, with the experts at 4 Way Metal.