HS Metalworks Expands Into Shelving & Filtration Screen Markets

HS MetalWorks (Hickory, NC), an operating business of HS Manufacturing, LLC, will expand into the shelving and filtration screen markets as a result of customer demand and company investments in new grid welding equipment at its metal plant. The new equipment broadens the company’s ability to service customers in material handling, security screen and equipment safety barrier industries.

Grid welding – the process of resistance welding wires together at their intersections to form a grid pattern – is often used to more efficiently manufacture products such as shopping carts, metal display racks and shelving, metal storage baskets and a variety security and safety screens.

“As OEM manufacturers outsource more and more of their sub-assembly processes, we continue to expand our manufacturing capabilities to provide more value-added services,” said Tim Becker, president of the HS MetalWorks business. “This new equipment, paired with our industry-leading quality control standards and domestic manufacturing capabilities, enables us to build new applications for current customers and work with a host of new customers, including those in the security screen and equipment safety barrier industries, two key growth areas as we continue to diversify our portfolio.”

In addition to supporting HSM’s expansion into new markets, the system’s highly precise robotic welding process allows the company to offer additional sizes and options to existing customers. According to Becker, the new technology gives the company the flexibility to manufacture custom grid pattern dimensions as well as custom panel sizes.

“Previously, our customers were limited to purchasing pre-cut panels hand-cut to their specific dimensions, adding labor and often creating costly scrap,” he said. “With this new system, we can weld custom panels in a variety of sizes, minimizing labor and reducing waste.”

Adding to the efficiency of the manufacturing process, the system was designed for high output and automation and can be run by a single operator. It features an auto-feed input for grid profiles and an automated pallet loading process for finished materials.

“In our current economic environment, we are keenly focused on continually optimizing our manufacturing processes to strengthen our position as a one-stop, full service components and capabilities provider with multiple locations across the U.S.,” he continued. “As our customers put more value on products made in America, this investment demonstrates our commitment to staying competitive with imported components.”

hsmsolutions.com