Operational improvements and increased efficiency have been central to the rapid growth of Adelaide-based metal gate manufacturer, Secure Gates.
The small business has grown 70 per cent in the last three years with the company's founder, Simon Neil, claiming a key contributor to that success has been the introduction of a plasma cutter to automate the cutting of square tubes and plate steel used in the manufacturing process.
Research into cutting machines led Neil to Advanced Robotic Technology (ART) and the installation of a HD Plasma machine. “The plasma cutter has made a considerable impact on output,” Neil said.
“In the past, having to cut material off-site caused problems with lead times but now we can prototype quickly.
“Previously we were always waiting for cut metal to be returned.”
In addition to increased productivity, Neil said the machine has reduced production times by 50 per cent including shortened lead times when it comes to prototyping and fabricating,
“The final product is of higher quality due to increased speed and accuracy,” Neil said. Working in the area of large and specialised industrial and high-security gates, including gates used in prisons, is a niche business.
“It is a repeat client list with most new clients attracted by word of mouth,” Neil said.
Last year he was able to employ a full-time member of staff. “There is now two of us and the efficiency improvements have freed up time for me to plan for company growth,' he added.
Secure Gates installed a ART HPR130XD plasma machine with a drill/tap head. It was customised as Neil required a large working area – in his case a working area of 14.5 m x 2.5 m – and the ability for cutting long length of square tube – up to 12.5 m in length – as well as steel plate.