Applied Fabricators sharpens competitive edge with LEAN Sheet Metal Storage Racks
A Growing Industry Leader in Cold Storage Manufacturing
Applied Fabricators, a family-owned business located in Greenfield, Indiana, was founded in 1984 by Bob and Julie Reeve.
Specializing in fabricating metal for the cold storage construction industry, they produce a variety of products, including heavy gauge angles, tracks, channels, door opening wraps, and embossed metal trims. They also fabricate commercial roof edges such as coping, fascia, drip edge, gutter, and downspout.
The company is currently owned by their son, Brandon Reeve, who took over in 2008, and prides itself on its rapid response to customer needs and its ability to handle both large and small orders efficiently.
With significant growth over the years, Applied Fabricators has diversified into other industries and implemented automation and innovation to enhance their operations.
Recognizing the need to utilize their existing facility space more efficiently, they formed a partnership with our team at Lean Manufacturing Products. This collaboration began with an in-depth review of Applied Fabricators' current operations and material storage methods.
The facility before LEAN Sheet Metal Storage Racks
Although their materials were off the ground, accessibility and organization needed significant improvement.
Applied Fabricators used cantilever-style racking to stack their material pallets in the same manner they received them. However, with limited space left in their cantilever racking and the inability to stack more pallets due to tight spacing, they had no choice but to place the excess materials on the floor.
As they consumed the material, they were left with the removal and disposal of the wooden pallets, which in some cases remained in their racking without any material, taking up valuable storage space.
The challenge in accessing their materials prompted a call to action to replace their current storage methods.
Material Consolidation After Metal Storage Rack Implementation
Through continuous discussions and collaboration, our team tailored a material storage solution to their exact needs.
Their LEAN Safety Block Storage Systems were implemented to consolidate materials and create more space on the shop floor.
As a result, significant space savings and streamlined access to materials were immediately noticed, leading to cost savings throughout Applied Fabricators' entire supply chain.
The enhanced efficiency and optimized space utilization have strengthened Applied Fabricators' competitive edge in the fabrication industry and they now have a seamless process for accessing the exact material they need and directing it straight into their laser and downstream operations.
Begin Your Own Lean Manufacturing Transformation
If you have outdated sheet metal storage methods and are looking for high-quality solutions, learn more about our Sheet Metal Storage Racks here.
To view the entirety of our product portfolio, visit our products page here.
If you have further questions, get in touch via email at info@leanmfgproducts.com or give us a call at 262-875-3071
