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FABTECH Chicago 2023

Submitted by mcreighton@eli… on

History

FABTECH started in 1981. It has since evolved and expanded to become North America's largest metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing event, drawing attendees from around the world to view and learn about the latest industry products and developments. The event showcases a wide range of live demonstrations, educational sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals in the metalworking and fabrication sectors. This event is a great opportunity to see new technology, gather ideas, learn from industry experts, and network with potential business partners.

Brands at FABTECH

DoALL Sawing Products

DoALL Sawing Products is a well-known name in the world of metalworking and fabrication, particularly in the sawing industry. Established in the 1920s by Leighton A. Wilkie, the founder of the DoALL Company, introduced the first-ever metal cutting band saw, revolutionizing the metalworking industry.

Here are some aspects of DoALL Sawing Products:

  • Variety of Products: Over the decades, DoALL Sawing Products has expanded its product line to include a wide range of sawing machines, from general purpose band saws to more specialized and complex ones.
  • Replacement Parts and Blades: DoALL not only produces saws but also provides a comprehensive selection of replacement band saw blades and parts. This ensures that users can maintain their equipment and get the best performance out of their saws over time.
  • Commitment to Quality and Innovation: DoALL has been known for its dedication to innovation and quality. The brand continues to introduce new technologies and improvements to their products, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the industry.

 

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DoALL Model ABW From 1935
Model ABW band saw  from 1935 was recently found unused in a DoALL warehouse.  Such a discovery is fascinating, especially considering the historical significance and the impeccable condition of a machine that has remained unused for so long. 

Baileigh Industrial 

Baileigh Industrial is another prominent name in the realm of metalworking and woodworking equipment. The company has made a significant mark by producing high-quality machinery for both metal fabrication and woodworking.

Here are some highlights about Baileigh Industrial:

  • Wide Range of Products: Baileigh offers a comprehensive range of machines, including press brakes, band saws, drills, ironworkers, lathes, milling machines, notchers, plasma tables, roll benders, sheet metal brakes, tube and pipe benders, and more.
  • Woodworking Equipment: Beyond metal fabrication, Baileigh also provides woodworking equipment such as band saws, jointers, planers, table saws, sanders, and downdraft tables.
  • Innovation: Baileigh has consistently worked on incorporating the latest technologies and features into their machines. Their designs are known to be user-friendly, efficient, and durable.

US Industrial Machinery Company 

US Industrial Machinery Company (often referred to as US Industrial) is well-recognized in the metalworking industry for providing a range of heavy-duty machinery. The company focuses primarily on hydraulic machinery and has built a solid reputation for producing high-quality, durable equipment at competitive prices.

Here are some aspects of US Industrial:

  • Hydraulic Press Brakes: One of the best known  products of US Industrial is their hydraulic press brakes. These machines are known for their precision and power, catering to various sizes and capacities for different industrial applications.
  • Hydraulic Shears: Another major product line is their hydraulic shears, which can handle various thicknesses of materials and are designed for durability and accuracy.
  • Ironworkers: US Industrial also manufactures hydraulic ironworkers. These multifunctional machines can punch, shear, notch, and bend metal, and they're often considered essential tools for many metalworking shops..
  • Competitive Pricing: One of US Industrial's selling points has been their ability to offer robust machinery at prices that are often more competitive than some of the other major brands in the industry.

JET Tools

Jet is a notable brand in the woodworking and metalworking industry, known for its broad range of tools and machinery that cater to both professionals and hobbyists. JET Tools has been in the business for several decades, establishing a reputation for producing reliable and durable equipment.

Here are some key points about JET Tools:

  • Variety of Products: JET offers a diverse lineup of products, including band saws, drill presses, lathes, milling machines, jointers, planers, dust collectors, and more.
  • Metalworking Machinery: In the realm of metalworking, JET produces equipment like metal forming tools, grinders, finishing tools, and various cutting tools. They also provide machinery for specific tasks like bending, shaping, and shearing metals.
  • Woodworking Machinery: For woodworking, JET offers a range of tools, from saws and planers to sanders and lathes. Their lineup is extensive, catering to virtually all aspects of woodworking.
  • Educational Initiatives: JET also focuses on education and training. They offer resources, videos, and manuals to help users get the most out of their products, ensuring safety and efficiency.

 

FABTECH Overview:

  • Establishment: Founded in 1981.
  • Scope: It's the largest event of its kind in North America, bringing together suppliers and attendees from around the world.
  • Products & Innovations: FABTECH showcases the most extensive collection of products, latest innovations, and tools where attendees can discover new solutions and ideas.
  • Educational Sessions: The event often includes educational programs and sessions where industry professionals share their expertise, offering insights into the latest trends, best practices, and business strategies.
  • Live Demonstrations: Attendees have the chance to witness live demonstrations of various machinery and equipment, providing a hands-on experience and better understanding of how these tools function.
  • Networking: It serves as a major networking platform where industry professionals, suppliers, and new entrants can connect, fostering relationships and business opportunities.
  • Exhibitors: The event features a wide range of exhibitors, from major industry players to emerging startups, showcasing their products, machinery, and technologies.
  • Location: The venue for FABTECH changes from year to year, rotating between major cities in the U.S. In 2024 FABTECH will be held October 15-17, 2024, in Orlando, Florida, at the Orange County Convention Center.

 

In essence, FABTECH is the go-to event for anyone involved in the metalworking and fabrication industries, offering a comprehensive overview of the current state of the industry, its future trends, and opportunities for both learning and networking.