As the owner of a small metal fabrication shop, your beveling tool is probably one of the most important pieces of equipment in your shop. It is a tool that is used often and will eventually need to be replaced with a newer machine in order to keep up with technological advancements and the changing demand of customers. Keep reading to spot 5 signs that it's time for you to replace your current beveling system with a new and improved model.

1. Maintenance Costs Are Steadily Increasing

One of the tell-tale signs that you probably need a new beveling machine is that the maintenance costs of your current machine are on the rise. If you are constantly making repairs, or the machine is often down and you're losing money because jobs aren't being done in a timely manner, then it's time to start looking for a new beveling tool. And if you reach the point where regular maintenance won't solve the problem, then you need to buy a new beveling machine as soon as possible.

2. Slow Operation Is Causing Bottlenecks

If your beveling operation is slower than the rest of the production line, you will end up with bottlenecks that will cost you time, man-power, and money. When you invest in a new beveling system that will save your man-hours and create the opportunity for you to use your shop workers in a more productive manner, you will have improved efficiency that will save you money instead of cost you money.

3. Quality Is Steadily Decreasing

A good sign that your beveling equipment is wearing down is an increase in rework rates and/or scrap. When your machine isn't keeping up with your high quality standards, then you should start looking into buying a new machine that can keep up with those high standards. Look at machines that will allow you to go above and beyond your current output to impress your customers and keep them coming back for more.

4. Precision Is Not What It Used To Be

In the world of metal fabrication, precision is everything. If your beveling tools no longer meet the specifications that where guaranteed when you purchased them, then it means there are worn parts that are no longer functioning as well as they used to. As parts wear out, you will begin to have trouble meeting job specifications. If your customers are not satisfied, then they won't come back again. In order to avoid this and keep the precision of your shop's work spot-on, you'll need to upgrade your beveling tool.

5. You Are Limited In What You Can Produce For Your Customers

As beveling technology continues to evolve, you will eventually have outdated equipment that will limit what you can do for your customers. You may be limited in the size of pipes you can work with, or your automated plate beveler can't handle unusual piece sizes or specialty bevels. If you can't keep up with customer's needs, they will seek out other fabrication companies that can.

If you notice any of these signs occurring in your metal shop, it's time to buy a new beveling tool. As you look to upgrading your current beveling system, consider the needs of your customers. Perhaps you need a portable beveling tool to gain more flexibility in the types of jobs you can do for your customers. Maybe you need beveling equipment that can work on a wider range of metal thickness than what your current tool can handle. These and other considerations must always be kept in mind when you are shopping for new and improved beveling tools.