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Rising costs and market uncertainty have pressured the U.S. metalworking industry. Tariffs on imported materials have driven up input prices and dampened manufacturing activity, contributing to a recent contraction in the sector​ (reuters.com). Combined with softer demand and tighter financing, these challenges create an economic downturn for metal fabricators, machine shops, and other metalworking businesses. In such times, innovation becomes […]

Metal Chip Processing and Fluid Recycling Turn Metal Scrap and Fluid into Revenue Streams Metalworking manufacturers are increasingly challenged by metal scrap management. Metal Chip Processing is the core solution. Metal chips, a byproduct of machining and manufacturing processes, often cause costly storage, transportation, and environmental compliance issues. Briquetting provides an efficient, sustainable solution by transforming loose metal chips into […]

Vertical Axis Crushers: The Smart Solution for Handling Metal Scrap Metalworking facilities generate significant volumes of scrap, particularly long turnings and bulky chips. Efficiently managing this metal scrap can quickly become costly and hazardous if left unaddressed. Vertical Axis Crushers (VACs) from PRAB provide an innovative solution that drastically reduces scrap volume, streamlines recycling, and enhances workplace safety. This blog […]

Strategic Capital Investments for Metalworking Manufacturers: Navigating Tariffs, Inflation, and Economic Uncertainty in 2025 Posted 3/21/2025 U.S. metalworking manufacturers face unprecedented economic challenges in 2025, including escalating tariffs, persistent inflation, and uncertain supply chains. Recent tariffs on imported steel and aluminum significantly affect operational costs, reinforcing the need for metalworking manufacturers to reconsider their capital investment strategies. In this uncertain […]

Efficient scrap handling is vital for metalworking productivity, profitability, and operational excellence. Oscillating conveyors offer a reliable and cost-effective solution, providing smooth, controlled scrap transfer that significantly enhances throughput and minimizes downtime. This blog explores the principles behind oscillating conveyors, highlights their distinct advantages over traditional systems, and shares real-world examples demonstrating their impact on operational efficiency. Understanding Oscillating Conveyors: […]

Metalworking Manufacturers: Navigate Tariff Challenges In March 2025, the United States instated a 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum to bolster domestic production and protect national security interests. While these measures intend to support U.S. industries, they have increased raw material costs for automotive, aerospace, construction, and heavy manufacturing sectors. This cost escalation presents challenges and opportunities for metalworking […]

Recent inflation research indicates that U.S. metalworking manufacturers should prepare for several key challenges in the coming year: Domestically sourced Recycled Metal Scrap Brings Higher Prices and Profitability The recent imposition of a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, effective March 12, 2025, is expected to increase demand for domestically sourced metals, including recycled scrap. This policy change positions […]

Recent developments in U.S. trade policy, particularly the expansion of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, present several challenges for metalworking manufacturers in the United States. But there is GREAT NEWS for Metal Scrap Recycling. Recycled Metal Scrap Market Price Increases Bring New Opportunities The rising prices for recycled metal scrap present several business opportunities: Increased Profit Margins: Companies can […]

High-volume metal scrap handling requires a conveyor system designed for efficiency and reliability. This post explores technical configurations such as incline angles, throughput capacities, and cooling options to handle diverse metal scrap loads. We highlight proven solutions and showcase real-world examples of how metalworking manufacturers optimize their systems for maximum throughput. The Challenges of High-Volume Metal Scrap Handling Metalworking processes […]

Magnetic conveyors are game changers for handling thin, lightweight scrap. These systems use magnets to hold securely and transport ferrous materials, providing precision and control that traditional conveyors struggle to achieve. This blog explores their critical role, supported by real-world examples and technical insights from PRAB’s applications, to show how they minimize material loss, improve workplace safety, and seamlessly integrate […]