A Fabrication Journey with a Torchmate CNC Plasma Cutting Table

CUTTING-EDGE CAPABILITIES TRANSFORM A PASSION INTO A BUSINESS

Mata Metal Works was established in 2021. It was built from the ground up and needed a versatile piece of equipment that could be used to create all of the projects Mata had envisioned. Mata specializes in fabricating custom art pieces, signs, brackets and custom parts for side by sides and other vehicles. This case study explores how Torchmate®, leveraging CNC plasma cutting technology and proprietary TM CAD software, delivered exceptional results, constructing Mata Metal Works’ manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and overall expansion capabilities.

Shelley, the owner of Mata Metal Works, has a unique background that combines a passion for creativity with a strong family tradition in welding and HVAC. Located in Maricopa County, Arizona, just north of Phoenix, Shelley transitioned from a 20-year career in the medical field, where she spent the last decade treating cancer patients. Her husband, who is an HVAC professional, and her father and brother, both welders by trade, inspired her to explore the world of metal fabrication. Despite having no prior fabrication experience, Shelley and her husband decided to invest in a Torchmate 4510 CNC plasma cutting machine in late 2021, transforming their three-car garage into a bustling workshop. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091230643749

WHY MATA METAL WORKS CHOSE TORCHMATE

Mata Metal Works evaluated several suppliers, ultimately selecting Torchmate for its:

» Proprietary Technology: The Torchmate CAD software is proprietary and unparalleled by competitors. Mata Metal Works enjoys utilizing the nesting and scan and trace features.

» Ease of Use : Torchmate tables are designed so anyone can easily learn to operate the machine. Minimal CNC and CAD experience is needed which allows for a fast learning curve. Shelley has become a near expert operator by utilizing Torchmate’s online training videos.

» Expertise: Lincoln Electric® has over 125 years of experience manufacturing a wide range of welding equipment and industry- leading expertise in complex 5-axis CNC machining, fabrication and quality. Mata Metal Works uses and trusts Lincoln Electric welding equipment.

» Customer Support: Torchmate employs a team of professional technical support experts who are available via phone all weekdays to help Torchmate customers with any Torchmate table questions that may arise.

HOW THE TORCHMATE TABLE PROVIDED A SOLUTION

Shelley started using the Torchmate table to create artistic pieces and custom brackets, quickly seeing the business take shape. The Torchmate table was already proving valuable for Mata Metal Works. As word spread, customers began making requests for custom trailing arms for side-by-sides and other unique projects. Shelley effortlessly tackled these requests with her Torchmate table, and soon, customers wanted more—powder-coated pieces, engraved designs, and more.

Over time, Mata Metal Works expanded its capabilities to include various fabrication techniques. Using the Torchmate CAD 9 software, Mata can scan drawn parts and cut them with precision accuracy.

They can then weld any necessary pieces using their Lincoln Electric POWER MIG® 256 and Square Wave® Tig 200 welders. Once welded, they have the ability to powder coat and even engrave projects with the Torchmate Platemarker attachment.

The results speak for themselves: by purchasing a Torchmate table, Mata Metal Works was able to start its business from scratch. The business has independence from outside vendors and is completing projects Shelley had only dreamed of when she first started the company. Her journey from a novice to a successful fabricator can be an inspiration to many future entrepreneurs. 

THE RESULTS

“Three years later, Mata Metal Works continues to thrive. They use their Torchmate 4510 with a plate marker attachment, enhancing their cutting capabilities and quality. “We use our Torchmate all the time; we cut everything from artistic pieces to custom brackets and trailing arms for side-by-sides,” Shelley said.

Having the Torchmate technology in-house has had a positive impact on profits, allowing Mata Metal Works to redirect funds toward purchasing more equipment and even planning to build a dedicated shop in the backyard. The Torchmate 4510 has become an essential part of the manufacturing process. It’s helped Shelley expand her capabilities and maintain the quality and precision that Mata Metal Works customers expect. The success of Mata Metal Works is a testament to Shelley’s determination and the power of investing in the right tools.

I would one hundred percent recommend the Lincoln Electric Torchmate technology. The quality of the system, the tech support, the ease-of-use, the software and the whole package deal is great.” - Shelley Mata, Owner, Mata Metal Works

Check out Torchmate CNC Plasma Tables here and see how you can start growing your business!

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