Mixing close client communication, a unique record keeping system, and two special patents generates a recipe for success — at least for this Midwest heat treat company, GFI Metal Treating, Inc.
Communicating closely with their clients in the agricultural, military, and construction industries, this heat treater worked painstakingly to test and perfect over 150 recipes for a variety of specifications. This process took five years and much in-house research. The research and communication have paid off, however, as they can now process an extra eight loads a day with only two or three nonconformances a year. When clients voiced diverse needs in the ever-changing industry, the company listened and began offering not only heat treating processes like carburizing and induction hardening, but also post heat treatment services such as vibratory deburr and parts cleanings.
outside GFI Metal Treating, Inc.
In developing these 150 recipes, a second key ingredient was at play: Their record keeping control, notably their proprietary database software, “RUN SHEETS.” RUN SHEETS follow every step in each part’s process, from prepping the basket to running the load, and can be used as a reference when needed. Parts at GFI may be processed in anything from one of two 2,500 lb IQ furnaces to one of two car bottom furnaces, and the software collects data on every step of processing each part. The database holds records since 2004, giving them a wealth of past data to be drawn upon.
The final ingredient? Two special patents pertaining to the agricultural industry. GFI hardens the top edge of crossbars for combines and holds one patent for the hardening process and one patent for the process equipment. This shows just how much they are willing to communicate with their agricultural clients, as they honed and specialized their processes and equipment to achieve these patents, creating a “print to quote” environment where all processes can be completed in house
The next steps in GFI’s recipe are making further developments on their three core ingredients. As they continue to focus on close client communication, growing with the client base, taking on new projects to help clients grow, and finding new clients are significant goals.
Additionally, artificial intelligence is becoming more and more a mainstay of manufacturing, and GFI is excited to see how this may affect their proprietary database software. Whatever new technology may bring — perhaps iPads will replace paper or billing will become instantaneous upon the delivery of work — the company is looking forward to adapting, and maybe even improving, their RUN SHEETS system.
Since the patented hardening equipment is so unique, equipment upkeep (and avoiding breakdowns) is a high priority for the upcoming years. The company has come a long way in a short period since their beginning in May 2000 and is excited to continue applying their recipe for success to new opportunities.
For more information:
GFI Metal Treating, Inc.
1531 Preston Street
Rockford, IL 61102-2047
United States
gfimetaltreating@sbcglobal.net
www.gfimetaltreating.com
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