Calvary Robotics Blog

The Base of Automation with Framing Tech

Written by Josh Gravelle | 10/16/24 3:30 PM

Building the Foundation of Automation: A Deep Dive into Framing Tech and Their Custom Solutions

In the ever-evolving world of automation, the unseen framework supporting intricate machinery plays a pivotal role. Whether it's in a high-tech factory or a customized home setup, the structural foundation of machines is essential to their efficiency and function. Enter Framing Tech, a company specializing in aluminum extrusions that serve as the backbone for countless automation systems. In this blog, we’ll explore Framing Tech’s versatile offerings, their speed in delivering custom solutions, and how they’re continuously innovating to meet the demands of various industries.

What is Framing Tech?

Framing Tech is a leading supplier of aluminum extrusions used for the framing and guarding of machines. But their capabilities go beyond just frames—they offer a range of additional components like paneling and custom-built solutions that cater to diverse needs. Based in Rochester, New York, Framing Tech serves customers across the United States, providing high-quality custom-built systems for various industries.

Founded over 20 years ago, the company has maintained a close-knit culture with under 40 employees. This small but mighty team works closely with customers to ensure their framing needs are met efficiently and with precision. The company’s leadership team is still actively involved in day-to-day operations, which adds a personalized touch to their service.

In addition to their technical expertise, the team at Framing Tech has a welcoming atmosphere—including their shop dogs, Malik and Ollie, who contribute to the company’s friendly and approachable nature. Whether you’re visiting the company or placing an order remotely, the sense of partnership and collaboration is evident in every interaction.

Framing Tech’s Role in Automation Systems

Framing Tech isn’t just about building aluminum frames—they are the very "bones" of automation systems. From medical devices to automotive machinery, their customizable framing solutions form the structural support for various automated processes. This vital role allows companies to optimize their workflows and ensure their systems run smoothly and efficiently.

One of the standout features of Framing Tech is their adaptability. They work with a wide range of clients, from major corporations to hobbyists with DIY projects. Whether it’s a massive industrial project or a small-scale home design, they offer a custom approach that fits the needs of each client. Some customers come to them with detailed CAD designs, while others provide simple sketches. Framing Tech is equipped to handle both ends of the spectrum, translating customer ideas into fully realized, custom-built products.

This flexibility extends to the company’s CAD libraries, which make it easy for clients to integrate Framing Tech’s components into their designs. For tech-savvy customers, using these libraries simplifies the process, as they can drag-and-drop elements directly into their workflows. For others, Framing Tech’s engineering team provides expert support to ensure that every project, no matter how big or small, is executed with precision.

Customization and Versatility in Design

What sets Framing Tech apart is their focus on customization and versatility. No two projects are the same, and the company is proud to offer tailored solutions that meet the specific requirements of each customer. From color choices to frame size and materials, clients have the freedom to dictate exactly what they need.

One of the most interesting aspects of Framing Tech’s work is the sheer variety of applications their frames are used for. While their primary market may be automation systems, the company also provides frames for some unexpected applications. For example, they have created custom fish tank stands and ergonomic workbenches for home offices. The ability to design frames for everything from large-scale industrial machinery to personal home projects is a testament to the company’s range.

Framing Tech’s customer base is equally diverse. With over 8,000 clients, they have experience in industries as varied as automotive, medical, entertainment, and even residential construction. Whether it’s a frame for a concert stage or a custom patio awning, Framing Tech has likely done it before—or can design it from scratch.

Key Industries and Applications

While Framing Tech works across many industries, some of their most frequent collaborators include companies in the medical, automotive, and entertainment sectors. Their frames are used in everything from high-precision medical devices to rugged industrial equipment. However, it’s not just big industries that benefit from their services. Framing Tech also caters to individual projects, such as building mobile, collapsible frames for home or small business use.

One particularly unique case involved a project for a medical company where Framing Tech had to design a frame that was not only collapsible but also mobile. The frame needed to fit over a molding machine, be able to collapse when not in use, and be compliant with medical standards like HEPA filters and smooth-sided surfaces. This example highlights the company’s ability to design highly specialized frames to meet even the most complex requirements.

Speed and Efficiency

In today’s fast-paced world, speed and efficiency are critical. Framing Tech understands this and has structured their operations to deliver high-quality products with impressive turnaround times. One of their standout features is their quick lead times. They aim to quote projects within three days and ship fully assembled products in as little as three to four weeks, depending on the size of the order.

This speed doesn’t compromise quality. Framing Tech’s entire process is designed to ensure precision while maintaining flexibility. Customers can choose to receive their orders in various forms—either fully assembled, in kit form with labeled parts, or simply as individual components. Their innovative quick connectors allow even customers with little technical experience to assemble frames as easily as they would an IKEA product.

For larger projects, Framing Tech offers sub-assembled frames that can be shipped and installed on-site, ensuring that even the most complex orders are delivered efficiently and ready to use.

Innovation and New Offerings

Framing Tech is continuously evolving to meet the needs of their customers. One area of innovation is their development of motion and ergonomic solutions. As the demand for adjustable workstations and ergonomic designs grows, Framing Tech has responded by creating actuator-related frames that can change height or position as needed. These frames are particularly useful in industrial settings, where workers may need to adjust workbenches or shelves for better ergonomics.

One notable recent project involved delivering a frame for a company that needed a 20-foot-long structure capable of moving up and down. With four lift columns, each capable of holding 500 pounds, the project showcased Framing Tech’s ability to handle large-scale, motion-enabled frames.

In addition to these actuator-based solutions, Framing Tech has also introduced a new product line called "Framing Tube." This round-profile system is designed to support lean manufacturing workflows, making it easier for companies to integrate efficient, flexible production setups.

Advanced Capabilities and Future Directions

Beyond their expertise in framing, Framing Tech boasts impressive in-house capabilities. Their facility is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, including a 24-foot bed five-axis CNC machining center, a water jet machine, and a CNC press brake. These tools allow them to handle even the most intricate projects with ease, ensuring every frame is crafted to perfection.

Their smooth-sided profiles and attention to detail result in frames that not only perform well but also look aesthetically pleasing. Whether it’s for an industrial machine or a custom home installation, Framing Tech ensures that each frame is as sleek as it is functional.

Framing Tech stands out as a leader in the automation framing industry, providing custom-built, high-quality solutions to a wide range of customers. Their ability to innovate, combined with their focus on speed and customer service, makes them a trusted partner in industries as diverse as medical, automotive, and home design. For anyone in need of a reliable, customizable framing solution, Framing Tech is the go-to source.