At Ameritex, we take pride in our ability to engineer custom metal fabrications that meet the unique needs of every project. Recently, we had the opportunity to design and build an innovative adjustable-height skid for a customer with a unique challenge: they needed a skid that would allow them to move equipment to the height of a platform without having to climb a set of stairs.
The customer came to us with just a list of requirements—no drawings or detailed specifications. They specified the minimum and maximum heights needed and relied on our expertise to make the skid adjustable within that range. Through our collaborative design process and expertise in precision sheet metal fabrication, we created a solution that exceeded their expectations.
Let’s dive into how we tackled this project.
The Design Process
The heart of the adjustable skid was its lifting mechanism, which posed the most significant design challenge. After evaluating the customer’s needs, we settled on a 12-inch-long power screw as the core component. This mechanism allowed for precise height adjustments within the specified range while maintaining simplicity and durability.
To ensure the design was cost-effective and user-friendly, we proposed a two-tiered system. The primary adjustment relied on the power screw, which provided smooth, incremental changes. For broader height ranges, we incorporated a secondary pin-based system. This approach allowed the skid to adjust within the required range without the need for an impractically long power screw.
During the design phase, we employed a consultative approach, working closely with the customer through three rounds of revisions. Each iteration refined the design to better suit their needs and ensure optimal performance. Another critical aspect of the design process was ensuring the skid’s structural integrity. The customer required the skid to support a specific load, but we went a step further and designed it to handle double that capacity. This not only provided an extra safety margin but also underscored our commitment to delivering custom fabrications that stand the test of time.
Our Collaborative Approach to Custom Fabrication Projects
This project is a perfect example of our dedication to collaboration and innovation in custom metal fabrication.
In this case, the customer provided minimal specifications. With no detailed prints, they trusted us to turn their vision into a fully functional solution. Through open communication and iterative design, we developed a unique and innovative product tailored to their needs.
We leveraged our expertise in design for manufacturability to balance innovation, cost-efficiency, and structural integrity, and created a solution that solved the customer’s challenge without unnecessary complexity.
If you have a custom metal fabrication project in mind, we’re here to help. Whether you have a detailed blueprint or just a rough idea, our team can bring your vision to life. With decades of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialize in turning concepts into reality.
Let Ameritex design and build the perfect solution for your project—just like we did for this adjustable-height skid. Contact us today to request a quote and get started!
