Press brakes (or brake presses) are some of the most common machines used by sheet metal fabricators and have been the go-to bending machines for many years. Press brakes are powerful machines that are capable of forming both simple and complex parts. While there are dozens of different press brakes in various sizes and each…
Laser-cutting technology has revolutionized the manufacturing industry, providing unparalleled precision and efficiency in cutting a wide range of materials in sheet metal manufacturing. One such material that has gained popularity in recent years is vinyl-coated stainless steel. This unique product combines the durability and strength of stainless steel with the versatility and aesthetics of vinyl…
While polymers and plastics have started to be more widely used in medical product designs and applications, metals and specifically sheet metal fabrication are still highly beneficial to the medical industry. Metals serve as the building blocks to many of the life-saving medical devices and equipment doctors, nurses, and patients rely on every day and…
There are two major laser cutting systems on the market today used in sheet metal fabrication: CO2 and fiber laser cutting technology. With much discussion in manufacturing circles on which cutting technology is the better method, there are several notable differences between CO2 and fiber laser cutting technology when it comes to their capabilities and,…
This article, originally published in 2020, has been updated with the latest information. Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) – an engineering methodology that reduces time-to-market and total production costs by prioritizing ease of manufacturing and efficiency in assembly – is an essential component of any lean manufacturing strategy. When designing for sheet metal fabrication,…
People often ask, what exactly does Estes Design and Manufacturing make? Our elevator pitch to this question is usually, “Whatever you want us to make.” While our capabilities aren’t endless, our suite of services includes traditional metal fabrication, 3D laser welding, product development and prototyping, as well as inventory management and cost reduction services. In…