EccoFab, established in 1974 as a branch of Ekstrom Carlson & Company, began by crafting fabricated bases for machine products. Over the years, they’ve evolved into a specialized manufacturer of wear parts for heavy machinery. Recognizing the need for more durable materials, the company started experimenting with Hardox® steel in 1988, leading to their involvement in the U.S. Hardox® WearParts Network in 2000, as the first distributor for Hardox steel in North America.
Easy Engineering: A brief description of the company and its activities.
Our expertise lies in serving industries like quarrying, construction, mining and asphalt. We’re committed to producing parts that not only meet but exceed industry standards for durability and efficiency. This commitment extends from our product design to our meticulous manufacturing process, ensuring that each part delivers on performance and longevity.
E.E: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
Our core activities revolve around the custom fabrication of replacement OEM wear parts for heavy machinery used in the aggregate, mining and asphalt industries. We provide expert design consultation, working closely with clients to tailor parts to their specific operational needs. Our goal is to offer solutions that not only fit the machine but also optimize its performance.
E.E: What’s the news about new products/services?
The latest innovation from EccoFab is our groundbreaking Heat Resistant Asphalt Drum Flighting, a product that stands as a testament to our continuous pursuit of revolutionizing the industry. We’ve designed and manufactured this new product to notably increase productivity, reduce operational costs, and extend equipment longevity, aligning perfectly with the needs of the modern asphalt industry.
Our new asphalt drum flighting is forged from Hardox® HiTemp, an exceptional blend of heat-resistant and wear-resistant steel. This innovative material choice is pivotal, allowing our flighting to surpass the performance and lifespan of standard OEM flights. To put this into perspective, typical OEM flights often require replacement within about two years. In contrast, our heat-resistant flighting has demonstrated extraordinary endurance.
For instance, we displayed a used part at our booth that had been operational for four years, processing over 1.2 million tons of material. Despite this extensive usage, the part retained a nearly new appearance, exemplifying the product’s remarkable durability. Beyond durability, our heat-resistant flighting is engineered to withstand temperatures up to 903 degrees Fahrenheit, setting a new benchmark in heat tolerance. This is not just about enduring high temperatures; it’s about enhancing safety and reducing the risk of equipment damage from overheating, a critical concern in high-temperature operational environments.
E.E: What are the ranges of products/services?
Our range of products includes an array of wear parts such as wear plates, liners, bars, and wedges, all crafted from the renowned Hardox® steel. We offer parts in both the Hardox® 400 and 500 series to cater to different levels of wear resistance and durability. Beyond manufacturing, our services encompass custom design consultation and collaboration. We take pride in not just fulfilling orders but in actively working with clients to review and improve designs for maximum efficiency and performance.
E.E: What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
The current market for wear parts and heavy machinery components is dynamic and robust. Driven by consistent demands in sectors like construction, mining, and quarrying, there is a continuous need for high-quality, durable machinery parts. While the market is subject to economic fluctuations, the fundamental need for efficient and long-lasting components remains a constant. Our position in the market is strengthened by our ability to adapt to these changes and meet the evolving needs of our clients.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
The market is currently trending towards more sustainable and efficient operational practices. There’s an increasing demand for parts that not only last longer but also minimize environmental impact. We’re responding to these trends by continuously refining our materials and processes to offer more sustainable, efficient, and customized solutions.
E.E: What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2024?
As we look towards 2024, we’re anticipating a steady increase in demand for our custom wear parts. This growth is driven by the industry’s ongoing pursuit of more efficient and durable solutions. We’re also exploring further innovations in materials and manufacturing techniques to meet these growing demands. Our focus will remain on delivering high-quality, custom solutions that enhance the performance and longevity of our clients’ equipment. The beginning of 2024 holds promise for continued growth and advancement in our field.