1

DETAIL

14 | COOPER STEEL
BUILDING STRONG IN SMALL SPACES
3 | REFERENCE POINT 18 | TOOLBOX
ON THE COVER: Prospect Steel, a division of
Anton Peddinghaus Welcomes the Steel Boom Find the Perfect Raptor 3D CAD/CAM
With Sales & Support Soware Solution Lexicon, Inc., is proudly the first fabricator in the
United States to introduce a robotic structural
4 | OUTFEED 20 | LEMCO steel beam assembler into their Little Rock,
Peddinghaus Promotes Powerhouse Technologies Renewable Energy Powers South Africa Arkansas facility.
for NASCC San Antonio
24 | TOP TEN
6 | PROSPECT STEEL Ways Peddinghaus Has Revolutionized the
Robotic Welding Sparks the US Structural Structural Steel Industry
Steel Industry
26 | GETTING TO KNOW
10 | TECHNOLOGY SPOTLIGHT Duane Bates – Pre-Installation and Training
Introducing the Zeman SBA Compact Robotic Department Manager
Welding System
28 | TOOLBOX
12 | STEEL CODE Welcome to PeddiUniversity - the New Training and
Staying Ahead of the CNC Soware Curve Development Center

30 | TOPPING OUT
Lyle Menke Shares His Optimistic View for 2017

PeddiNews Magazine | 300 N. Washington Ave., Bradley, IL 60915 | +1 (815) 937-3800 Manage Subscriptions: www.peddinghaus.com/subscribe
Editor - Lindy Casey | Designer - Shawn Zeilenga | Web Development - Shad Taylor Submissions: marketing@peddinghaus.com
2

Carl G. (Anton) Peddinghaus
Chief Executive Officer | Peddinghaus Corporation
Dear Friends and Industry Colleagues
I can’t believe it is already that time of year again!
NASCC San Antonio is quickly approaching, and I have
an important message for you! Keep your Wednesday
night, March 22nd, open for our annual PeddiEvent. I
am sorry we are running a little late this year, but I
promise there will be more details for you shortly. I
cannot promise, however, that I will be flying around
on a magical beam at the party but you never know, it’s
still too early to tell. Keep an eye out for your invitation
e-mailer!
Beginning 2017 with a Boom
Moving on, I really want to thank YOU, our customers,
for making December 2016 and January 2017 record
breaking months for Peddinghaus Corporation. In
those months, we had our largest quantity of
incoming domestic orders ever. I speak for everyone
at Peddinghaus when I tell you we really appreciate
the trust you put in us, and we are extremely excited
about the recent upturn in our industry.
While most may shy away from including any political
references, you know me and I always have something
to say. The recent U.S. Presidential election was
REFERENCE POINT
one for the books, and I think we can all agree that before your Peddinghaus machine arrives or when you
it will be an interesting four years to come. As for need to train a new employee, and we’ll take care of
Peddinghaus, there’s a reason why we’ve been around the rest!
since 1903 – and as an American manufacturer, you
can count on that. (You can also count on not finding For more information or to sign up for one of the many
any political posts from me on Twitter.) courses that we offer, please contact Duane Bates
(Duane-Bates@Peddinghaus.com)
Local Service, Local Support Well, that’s enough from me. I hope to see you all in
Recently, I have visited a few customers, and I was San Antonio in March so we can enjoy a PeddiToast
surprised to hear they were unaware of the new together!
changes we have made in our service department.
Did you know we now have area service managers
assigned to each of our territories? These people work
rk Sincerely,
closely with the sales manager to address local issues
es
quickly and provide preventative maintenance when en
passing through. This is just one of the many areas as
we are constantly improving to better serve you – our
ur
partners.
Carl G. (Anton) Peddinghaus
Presenting PeddiUniversity – Our Neww
State-of-the-Art Training Center
In this issue of PeddiNews, you will find that we
have a lot going on here at our World Headquarters
in Bradley, IL. I am most proud of the Grand Opening
of PeddiUniversity – our brand-new, state-of-the-
art training and development center. Located here in
Bradley, we provide your operators with all the tools
they need for shop floor success. Send them here
3
 OUTFEED | NASCC SAN ANTONIO
Peddinghaus Promotes Powerhouse
Technologies in Texas
Visit Booth # 5016 March 22nd – 24th
$J?Rô*GLCQ
The time is here for the only conference dedicated to
structural steel: the NASCC. This year’s event brings
the newest technology and industry advancements
to San Antonio - where the weather is warmer,
American history runs rampant and the locals and
tourists greet you with a smile.
In anticipation of a true Texas-sized event,
Peddinghaus put together a larger than life lineup for
!+ô1MǯU?PC
the NASCC. Everything’s bigger in Texas, right? Visit
booth # 5016 and experience CNC innovations unlike
any other. Live demonstrations give you a front seat
to ‘test-drive’ the new technology, and the show
floor excitement are only some of the surprises that
Peddinghaus has in store.
Booth highlights include the HSFDB-C plate
processor, a true one-pass system that streamlines
ô+?PAFô
ôôcôNKôRMôNK
production. With capabilities for drilling, milling,
ô +?PAFô 
ô ô cô ?Kô RMô NK
tapping, countersinking, scribing, hard-stamping
ô+?PAFôRFôcô?KôRMôNK
and plasma or oxy-fuel cutting, the high-speed
heavy plate processor boasts a 12-station tool
4
changer, beveling torch and can process material up Product Lines:
to 4”/100mm thick. fô&GEF1NCCBô"PGJJô*GLCQ
The PeddiBlast, powered by AGTOS, is the shot fô&C?TWô.J?RCô*GLCQ
cleaning solution proven to improve welding fôLEJC
processes riding surfaces of impurities in seconds – fô2FCPK?Jô!SRRGLEô*GLCQ
using the least amount of abrasive. Get an in-depth fô*?WMSRô+?PIGLEô*GLCQ
look at this machine’s NASCC debut! While in booth fô1RPSARSP?Jô ?LBô1?UQ
#5016, check-out the 510-DGA double-miter band fô'PMLUMPICPQ
saw and the PeddiRotator profile turning device for fô1FMRô!JC?LGLEô*GLCQ
welding. fô+?RCPG?Jô&?LBJGLEô1WQRCKQ
fô.PMǫJCô2SPLGLEô1WQRCKQôDMPô5CJBGLE
Completing the show-stopping innovations includes
fô0?NRMPô"ô!"
live demos of Peddinghaus’ original Raptor 3D CAD/
(Learn more about Raptor Soware on pgs. 12 & 18!)
CAM Soware with new soware packages available
to make your soware shopping simpler! And don’t Location:
forget to check-out the Zeman robotic welding line Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
exclusively distributed by Peddinghaus – this new 900 E. Market St.
solution is now hitting the structural steel industry San Antonio, TX 78205
(read our cover feature on Prospect Steel and their
new SBA Compact+ system on page 6!)
Exhibit Hours:
fô5CBLCQB?W
We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio! fô2FSPQB?W
fô$PGB?W
For additional information or to register, visit:
www.aisc.org/nascc
 HENRY B. GONZALEZ CONVENTION CENTER MAP
900 E Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

5
6
Amidst the high and low cycles of the steel construction market
within the United States, one thing that has remained constant and
growing is the industry-wide shortage of skilled workers. In 2010,
the American Welding Society (AWS) reported a shortage of 200,000
welders in the U.S. and projects by 2026 that number will nearly
double at 372,000. The AWS further noted approximately 500,000
skilled welders are, on average, in their mid-50s and will soon retire
at a more rapid rate than replacements can fill the vacancies. When
assembly and welding can take up as much as half of the time to
process a structural steel beam, what’s a fabrication firm to do?
7
 FABRICATOR SPOTLIGHT | PROSPECT STEEL
Machine tool technology within the structural steel
market has evolved in such a way that many common
fabrication processes have become automated. Long
gone are the days of manual mag drilling and the time-
consuming soapstone and tape measuring method
for marking steel. With advancements in computer
controlled operations such as drilling, cutting, coping
and marking, automation practices have become
internationally acceptable for processing structural
steel profiles.
Industries such as automotive manufacturing have
long-adapted robotic welding solutions to meet
market demands. With benefits including faster,
consistent cycle times, increased production, labor
savings and better weld quality, the appeal of the
robotic welding system has made its way to the
structural steel industry. Prospect Steel, a division of
Lexicon, Inc. in Little Rock, Arkansas, is proudly the
first fabrication firm to introduce a robotic steel beam
assembler within the United States.
Projects for the American Ironworker
Power plants, sports stadiums, hospitals, event
centers and bridge work are just some of the areas
in the wide scope of Prospect’s steel work. Prospect
Steel’s extensive list of renowned projects is quite
impressive. The 50-year-old company, founded
by Tom Schueck, is just one of several companies
operating under the Lexicon, Inc. brand. Prospect
Steel has evolved into one of the largest structural
steel fabrication and erection contractors within
the United States. Specializing in heavy industrial
fabrication, Prospect performed the work for the
Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System – the
8
world’s largest solar thermal plant – located in the
Mojave Desert. Three towers, each 470 feet (140
meters) with a boiler at the top, were fabricated using
36 inch (90 cm) pipe columns with inch and a half
thick (4 cm) walls.
The NASA rocket test stand at the Stennis Space
Center is another significant project Prospect Steel
is proud of but what really hits home for Patrick
Schueck, President of Lexicon, Inc., is the work
they’ve completed for the steel mill industry and for
Nucor, one of Prospect’s best customers.
“The work that we’re capable of doing for Nucor,”
explained Patrick, “time and time again takes a little
piece of my heart. It makes me feel good that we’re
doing something for the American ironworker.”
Labor Shortage Hits Home
But this full-service construction company didn’t reach
their current successes with only an initial $800 dollar
investment and a smile. Prospect Steel affirms their
ability to seek and perfect new technologies in the
market drives their competitive edge. By constantly
researching industry trends, looking at innovative
equipment, seeking new soware packages and
implementing all into their facilities, Patrick assures
this empowers Prospect to provide the best product
to customers.
“That sets us apart,” Patrick confirmed. “It allows
us [Prospect] to provide the best customer service
possible and give the best price and the shortest lead
time for the best outcome.”
However, Patrick and the team at Prospect were
not having the best outcome with sourcing qualified
labor. With over 400,000 square feet (37,000 square
meters) of fabrication space, Prospect did not lack the
footprint for increased production, but were struggling
with the man-hours required to produce the welding
and fitting for successful projects.
Searching for a Solution
The Zeman robotic steel beam assemblers distributed
by Peddinghaus Corporation captured Prospect
Steel’s attention as a solution to their labor shortage
problem. Having an ongoing partnership with
Peddinghaus, Patrick felt confident that although this
newer technology hadn’t quite made its way to the
United States, this was exactly what Prospect needed
for a competitive edge.
“The Zeman line stood out from others in the market
because Peddinghaus represented it,” Patrick stated.
“As we move further and further into this global
economy, we’re not only going to be producing against
people in the United States…We’re facing production
from people in far-off lands that have a better wage
rate that can be as less as $5-$6 [USD] dollars per
hour. How are we to compete with that if we don’t
have help from robotics? We have to be able to do
that. We have to train our people to understand that
we need these complex new technologies in order to
be successful long-term. “
Patrick lined up a qualified team to assist in the
implementation of robotic welding into their
fabrication facility. With the help of Steve Grandfield,
Executive Vice President, the Prospect team pushed
forward with the SBA Compact+ system from Zeman.
Meet the 1st Steel Beam Assembler in
the US
Since the robotic welding solution was recently
installed, Prospect is already experiencing benefits
from the new system. Steve reports that the
 difference the Zeman system has made in production
has been a dramatic savings in both fit and weld
time. “The Zeman acquisition has allowed us to take
welding and fit up information directly from the 3D [BIM]
model to our shop floor,” Steve explained. “It has
allowed us to increase our productivity, decrease
any fit up errors and create a better product for our
customers while saving money.”

“The Zeman [system] gives us another approach to be

able to solve the huge problem in the steel fabrication
business of finding labor,” Patrick confirmed. “Day in
and day out we struggle to hire people off the street,
teach them how to weld … and perform in the shop
the way we need to perform. We don’t worry about
that with the Zeman system. It’s here on time …
and there’s even increased quality when it comes to
welding. When we looked at the ratio of man-hours
worked in the shop by human personnel versus what
the Zeman system could produce, it was pretty much
a no-brainer.”

The Future with Peddinghaus and

Zeman
Patrick, Steve and the Prospect team look forward
to continuing their reputation as a national leader
in high-quality fabrication and customer service.
By taking risks and embracing new automation
technology, Prospect proudly promotes their
competitive advantage. Implementing any new piece
of machinery can be a difficult and frustrating task.

“ The Zeman line stood out from

Prospect credits Peddinghaus and Zeman support
with not only teaching but coaching throughout the
training process.

“We got the machine up and running in less than four

weeks,” Patrick confirmed. “We were in production in others in the market because
“
less than six [weeks]. Our weld quality in the sixth
week was impeccable. I think our ability to come to
the market first is going to have a huge reflection on
our competitiveness in the market.”
Peddinghaus represented it.

IN FOCUS | PROSPECT STEEL

LEFT TOP: Micah Lopez, Project Manager, Patrick Schueck, President of
Lexicon, Inc. and Steve Grandfield, Executive Vice President of Prospect Steel
LEFT BOTTOM: The SBA Compact+ distributed by Peddinghaus can achieve up
to 25 tons per year to assemble and weld.
RIGHT TOP: This design is the first choice for fabricators with a limited
footprint yet high capacity.
RIGHT BOTTOM: The SBA Compact+ system consists of 2 robots to assemble,
tack weld and finish weld. 9
 TECH SPOTLIGHT | PEDDINGHAUS PRESENTS ROBOTIC WELDING IN THE US
Introducing the Zeman SBA Compact Steel Beam Assembler
Automated welding systems have long been United States. The SBA Compact is one of seven How Does It Work?
providing manufacturing industries profitable steel beam assembler product lines available. 1. The SBA Compact scans parts to be welded
advantages. Structural steel fabrication has Discover the flexibility of this cutting-edge to the main profile.
recently been introduced to this innovative technology with a variety of product lines to fit 2. Once all sections are scanned, parts are
method. Higher production, increased accuracy,your needs. positioned by magnet to their weld locations.
labor savings and a quick ROI are only some ofSBA Compact Highlights: 3. The SBA Compact is capable of performing
the benefits of robotic welding solutions. tack welds or full welds.
fô C?Kô&?LBJGLEô@Wô!P?LC
Meet the SBA Compact from Zeman - an fôôQQCK@JC
ô2?AIô?LBô$GLGQFô5CJBGLEô0M@MR 4. The profile is automatically rotated for
international leader in steel beam assembling continuous production.
fô"CQGELCBôDMPôQQCK@JGLE
technology. Peddinghaus is proud to be the Visit www.peddinghaus.com/zeman or contact
exclusive distributor for this technology for fô!MKN?ARô"CQGELôDMPô1K?JJCPô$MMRNPGLRQ
todd-cordes@peddinghaus.com to learn more.
fô!?N?AGRWôSNôRMô
ô2MLQ 7C?P

10
ASSEMBLE, TACK AND FINISH WELDING ROBOT

DESIGNED FOR ASSEMBLING

COMPACT DESIGN FOR SMALLER FOOTPRINTS

CAPACITY UP TO 15,000 TONS/YEAR

11
 STEEL CODE | STAYING AHEAD OF THE CNC SOFTWARE CURVE

As soware continues to evolve and shape the world around

us, the structural steel industry is no different. There’s no
denying innovative technology provides fabricators with a
keen competitive edge. Raptor 3D CAD/CAM Soware from
Peddinghaus takes CNC innovation even further by enabling
users to program faster and more accurately from design
BIM platforms. This coupled with Peddinghaus CNC
technology means maximum capacity for fabricators and
detailers alike.
Sound complicated? Absolutely not. Raptor’s innovative
design promotes ease-of-use and flexibility through
a variety of modules. These modules allow you to
customize your Raptor Soware experience to meet
production needs. Take a look at the modules on the
next page equipped with capabilities to import, modify,
inspect, create and export part programs directly within
Raptor. Then flip to page 18 and select which
soware package is right for you!

SEE RAPTOR IN ACTION @

WWW.PEDDINGHAUS.COM/RAPTOR/VIDEO

12
3D MODULE - The Core of Raptor
The heart of Raptor lies within the 3D module. Here is where the complete management and editing of part
data occurs. If part data has been imported into Raptor, inspect, modify and export part information directly
within the 3D platform. If you desire to create part files, Raptor allows that via its intuitive design.

DSTV Import
This module is available for fabricators who are already utilizing building design, or BIM, soware. DSTV
Import allows users the flexibility to transfer original designs from the model into the common DSTV file
standard. The DSTV file is then imported into Raptor via the DSTV Import module for editing and modifying,
or CNC file creation, for execution on a machine.
Tekla API Import
Do you currently utilize or are considering investing in Tekla Structures? Users of this BIM soware benefit
with a direct connection to Raptor Soware for optimized file conversions. This direct transfer sources the
original design of the structure and allows for more accurate conversions and automatic generation of
scribe data. With no intermediary files conversions, end users receive a more precise, data-rich import
using this module.

iDSTV+ and DSTV+ Import/Export

Select MRP (Material Requirements Planning) systems are capable of exporting batch nested files in a
format known as iDSTV+ and DSTV+. These file types play an important role in the automated development
of cut sheets for production. Raptor is capable of importing and exporting these iDSTV+ and DSTV+ files for
part production. Eliminate the need to manually batch nest files, which have already been batch nested
within a third party MRP soware, using this Raptor module.

Peddimat Import/Export
What if you are currently using Peddimat Soware from Peddinghaus? No problem! There’s a module for
that, too. The Peddimat import/export module provide users the ability to create new Peddimat files or
utilize existing Peddimat files within Raptor. This module allows users complete flexibility in regards to
legacy soware compatibility.

DSTV Export
Do you have CNC technology outside of Peddinghaus? We’ve got you covered. The DSTV Export module is
capable of exporting part information into a DSTV file format (scribes, copes and holes). All enhancements
or corrections applied within Raptor are included within the DSTV file using this module. The DSTV export
module brings the power of Raptor to third party CNC machinery that can import files of this type.

Post Processor
A Post Processor is an interface between CAD/CAM packages such as Raptor and a particular piece of
equipment. It works as a translator, reading the manufacturing instructions issued from a CAM system and
writing an appropriate rendition for that specific machine. This means each machine requires a different Post
Processor. If a machine has a Post Processor developed for it, Raptor can output files for that machine with
no intermediary modules.

DXF Import
Import DXF files from a 2D CAD soware with ease using this Raptor module. The DXF Import module is
an opt-in module currently in beta testing. If you are interested in becoming a beta site, please contact:
myraptor@peddinghaus.com

PeddiTrack
Searching for a better way to review and track production? The Parts Tracking module is for monitoring
the production of parts on Peddinghaus machines using Siemens controls. Now available as an option with
Raptor Soware, the Parts Tracking module works in the background of the CNC control creating output files
that display vital information about parts production.

*Still have some soware questions? Our Raptor experts are ready to reply at:
myraptor@peddinghaus.com 13

A common detail in the core of any company’s
achievements lies within the vision, mission and values
of leadership. Many steel fabricators originate from
family-oriented foundations, but it is those who extend
these same family values on to their customers that
reap the most rewards. Building lasting partnerships
and solid relationships within the structural steel
industry can help steer firms along the rocky road to
business longevity.
Building Strong In Small Spaces
Since 1960, Cooper Steel has been ‘building strong’ Their success story has been achieved through family
as a leader within the steel fabrication and erection values, exceptional customer service and company
industries. Relying on their core principles to guide growth while facing challenges of a small footprint.
them, Cooper has remained a strong family force
within the structural steel market. Kenneth and Faye
Cooper began Cooper Steel in 1960 as a husband and
wife team. Today, the family business has grown into
a $160 million dollar a year company with the third-
generation now being introduced to the steel roots.
15
 FABRICATOR SPOTLIGHT | COOPER STEEL
Fabricating American History
Cooper Steel, based in Shelbyville, Tennessee, an
hour outside of Nashville, serves the commercial,
manufacturing, distribution, education, healthcare,
industrial and manufacturing markets across the
United States. Their client list includes renowned
brands such as Amazon, BMW, Caterpillar, Pepsi,
Siemens, Target, Verizon, Volkswagen and Jack
Daniels – a Tennessee staple and the top-selling
American whiskey in the world.
The legendary Jack Daniel’s distillery located in
Lynchburg, Tennessee, is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places. Only a brief 12 mile
drive from Cooper Steel, it also served as the first
large customer for Mr. Cooper and Cooper Steel in
1960. Mr. Cooper proudly completed steel work and
maintenance for the famed facility. More recently,
Cooper Steel was selected to fabricate and erect
the steel for a new distillery and grain handling
facility for the Jack Daniel’s brand, proving their
commitment to customers spans over 50 years.
Another noteworthy project from Cooper includes
First Tennessee Park – the minor league baseball
park, home of the Triple-A Nashville Sounds. The
10,000 seat stadium is widely recognized for its
16
signature guitar-shaped scoreboard – designed,
fabricated and erected by none other than Cooper
Steel. Cooper was recognized by the ULI Nashville
Excellence in Development Awards for the large
project public sector and further confirmed Cooper
Steel’s ability to meet fast-paced deadlines when
the first pitch was right on time in April of 2015.
Small Footprint Pushes Automation
Solutions
In order to complete Cooper’s timely deadlines,
the company credits Peddinghaus technology. With
a small footprint within their 68,000 square foot
facility (6,300 square meters) and limited labor
available, Cooper Steel wanted to grow and knew
automation was going to be their solution. Taking
a ‘leap of faith’, Duff Zimmerman, President, was
tasked with researching manufacturers to invest and
make a commitment to bring Cooper’s processing
into the 21st century.
“No doubt about it,” Duff explained, “the Peddinghaus
equipment has allowed us to do what we’ve done
with the [original] facility that we have here. We’ve
made some minor additions to our building but for
the most part, we still have the same footprint that
we had 25 years ago. We moved into that shop in
IN FOCUS | COOPER STEEL
LEFT: (Front) Kenneth Cooper, Founder
(Back - Le to Right) Jordan Cooper, Secretary,
Gary Cooper, CEO and Cory Cooper, Vice President
RIGHT: (Le to Right) Duff Zimmerman, President,
Clint McCullough, Production Manager and
Rodney Harden, Plant Manager
1990, but the amount of steel we can now produce
has quadrupled in that time.”
Growing with CNC Technology
Aer researching several manufacturers within
the structural steel fabrication industry, Cooper
made their initial investment in Peddinghaus with a
BDL-760 drill line. Since their original acquisition,
Cooper has quite the impressive lineup of CNC
technology. An Anglemaster-643/Q angle line,
a newer BDL-1250 heavy duty drill line, an
Advantage-2 high speed drill line, an HSFDB heavy
plate processor and several structural band saws
have taken Cooper Steel into the next level of
fabrication.
“Peddinghaus has helped Cooper Steel grow,”
Rodney Harden, Plant Manager, confirmed. “We’ve
evolved very quickly with automation over the past
15 years. We used to fabricate everything old school
with just punches and mag drills, everything by
hand. Now with the Peddinghaus technology, we’ve
increased production by three times, if not four.”
“I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again,” Duff
reassured, “it’s really the service that makes the
difference for us. We know that anytime we call,
there’s somebody at Peddinghaus that understands
when your machines are down that it’s a real big
problem. They’re sympathetic and their goal is to get
you back running as fast as possible – whether it’s
overnighting a part or running web diagnostics via the
computer. They’re just concerned about getting your
machine running again and that’s really what sold the
next machine and the next machine…”

Family Values Promotes Partner Success

Recognized as one of the top workplaces in Tennessee
(The Tennessean, 2016), Cooper Steel brings its
home-grown values into the workplace and on to the
customer. With design-build, detailing, estimating,
project management fabrication and erection services,
the family business prides itself on providing exceptional
customer service from start to finish.

“I have noticed similarities between Cooper

Steel’s family-oriented business and Peddinghaus’
family-oriented business,” Duff stated. “Anton

“
[Peddinghaus] and his leadership of the company and
his enthusiasm is very similar to Cooper Steel with Gary
Cooper, his leadership, enthusiasm and what he does for
...we still have the same footprint
the company and the people that surround him; it just
makes for a great place to work.” we had 25 years ago... but the
“It’s been a wonderful family to work for,” explained
Clint McCullough, Production Manager. “Everyone at
Cooper Steel takes pride in their work – from the fab
amount of steel we can produce
“
shop all the way through project management to sales
and to the erectors. Everyone wants to do their best and
that’s something that Cooper’s always pushed for us to
has quadrupled in that time.
do and take pride in our work. At the end of the day, we
want people to notice Cooper Steel’s the best and want
to stay the best. With the Peddinghaus technology, we’ll
continue to put the best product out there.”

17
 TOOLBOX | RAPTOR SOFTWARE PRODUCT SELECTOR
Find the perfect Raptor 3D CAD/CAM Soware solution for your fab shop by following this simple step-by-step product selector. Now
offering new package options, Peddinghaus makes the soware selection process easier for you! Begin by choosing which modules best
suit your production needs. Not sure which modules are right for you? Flip to page 18 and learn more about each modules’ benefits! Follow
the directional arrows to your final soware package selection. Visit www.peddinghaus.com/raptor to request a quote or begin your free
30-day trial.

RAPTOR LIGHT
3D MODULE
1 TEKLA API IMPORT
SELECT MODULES |

DSTV IMPORT

DSTV EXPORT
POST PROCESSOR

2 RAPTOR RAPTOR
SELECT PACKAGE |

LIGHT STANDARD

Raptor Light allows the soware to be accessed via both the
machine’s CNC control panel for shop floor use and a desktop
computer for programming/administrative purposes. Raptor Light
provides the ability to import DSTV files; open, view, create and
save part files; and generate CNC files transferred to equipment for
operation. This package comes standard with select Peddinghaus
technology.
18
Raptor Standard provides the features of Raptor Light plus
additional functions such as the Tekla API integration and DSTV
Export. The Tekla API module allows Raptor to work directly with
the original design of a structure and acquire information faster and
more accurately than with the use of traditional DSTV files. Tekla
integration is especially important for the import of scribe data and
cope data. DSTV export provides the ability for programmers to
import or create files within Raptor and export a DSTV file that can
be used on third party machinery.
 RAPTOR LIGHT RAPTOR LIGHT
RAPTOR STANDARD RAPTOR STANDARD
RAPTOR PRO
PEDDIMAT IMPORT
EXPORT

PEDDITRACK iDSTV+ & DSTV+ IMPORT

EXPORT

DXF IMPORT

RAPTOR RAPTOR
PRO ULTIMATE

For a more versatile programming experience, Peddinghaus offers
Raptor Pro. Raptor Pro adds to the features and benefits of Raptor
Standard. Track parts production via the PeddiTrack module, import DXF
files from a 2D CAD soware as well as import/export existing Peddimat
files or create new Peddimat files with the Peddimat Import/Export
module within Raptor.
*The Raptor DXF Import Module is an opt-in module currently in beta testing. If you are
interested in becoming a beta site, please contact: myraptor@peddinghaus.com
Raptor Ultimate enables all features of Raptor Pro with the additional
capacity to integrate with third party MRP programs via the import and
export of DSTV+ and iDSTV+ files. These file types play an important role
in the automated development of cut sheets for production. Raptor
Ultimate is capable of importing these files, thus eliminating the need to
manually batch nest files which have already been batch nested within
a third party MRP platform.

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 Renewable Energy Powers South Africa
Country-wide rolling blackouts have plagued worth an estimated $14.4 billion USD.
the African population in recent years due
South Africa is now experiencing a boom
to poor planning and maintenance on an
in renewable energy – a concept that was
underdeveloped electrical grid. In 2011,
nonexistent just a few years prior. Solar plants
desperate for more power and a long-term
span the country’s northern sunny regions and
solution that didn’t rely on coal, the renewable
wind farms operate along southern coasts; both
energy program looked to investments within
putting a current stop to the blackout crisis. The
their energy infrastructure. The newly executed
Khi Solar One – the first solar tower plant in
program attracted private solar and wind
20 South Africa - and a wind-turbine tower factory
producers creating more than 102 projects
by GRI Renewable Industries – the second in
the country - can both be accredited with
enhancing clean energy and also the economy.
LEMCO, a thriving force within the South African
steel fabrication industry, was able to complete
the steel structures for these renewable energy
projects with rapid turnaround.
$30 Million Wind Tower a Breeze with
Peddinghaus
Just outside of Cape Town, a popular South
African tourist destination, you’ll find the
GRI wind tower factory. The massive 15,000
square meter (161,000 square feet) facility to complete 19,600 holes in the columns of
directly employs 200 people building 50 South the building structure and all profiles fit up
African wind towers per year. LEMCO completed correctly in the field.
fabrication for the wind tower project that
“If there’s one specific Peddinghaus machine
included lattice columns with zero tolerances
that we can nominate as being the star on the
for the 20 mm (.79 inch) holes in the beams
work shop floor, it’s the [Advantage-2] drill
and 20.5 mm (.81 inch) holes punched in angle.
line,” Andries explained. “My father always
The need for timely projection completion
has a saying that ‘there’s one of the old school
was vastly important, but Andries Laubscher,
machines on the work shop floor that pays for
Managing Director, wasn’t worried. Crediting
itself on a weekly basis, and that’s a welder’; I
the Advantage-2 drill line from Peddinghaus,
think when you’re talking about CNC machines,
Andries and the team at LEMCO were able
it’s our Advantage-2.”
 FABRICATOR SPOTLIGHT | LEMCO
The Company DNA
LEMCO began as Pieter Laubscher Construction
in 1967 with small scale metal working in the
Northern Cape, South Africa. The company
established a solid foundation within the steel
construction industry and in 2007, Pieter’s sons,
Andries and Pieter, Jr., joined the company.
Setting their young ambitions on company
growth, the family business became dedicated
solely to structural steel and operating under
the new name: LEMCO (meaning Laubscher’s
Engineering Manufacturing Company).
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Serving mostly the Western Cape with a
specialization in large industrial buildings,
LEMCO recently added versatility to their
company resume with Peddinghaus CNC
machinery. The introduction of renewable
energy markets in the Northern Cape allowed
LEMCO to showcase their new cutting-edge
technology within the record-tight timeframes.
“It’s difficult to say exactly how much
[Peddinghaus] CNC technology has contributed
to our company’s growth,” Andries stated. “But
it would not have happened without it. It’s
impossible. It’s just keeping up with the times.”
Putting Peddinghaus to the Test
With young blood driving the company,
Andries and Pieter, Jr. knew investing in CNC
technology was required in order to grow
LEMCO. Andries and Pieter, Jr. recognized the
Peddinghaus brand from growing up within the
industry and from their father. Aer seeing the
technology, they instantly knew the machinery
would advance their firm’s processing.
LEMCO invested in the Advantage-2
drill line, the DG-1250 band saw, the
Anglemaster-643/Q, the HSFDB plate
processor and most recently, the PeddiBlast
 IN FOCUS | LEMCO
LEFT: The Advantage-2 drill line provides LEMCO
with versatile capabilities to drill, mill, scribe, tap
and countersink profiles for maximum capacity.
RIGHT TOP: Andries Laubscher, Managing Director
and Pieter Laubscher, Jr., Co-owner of LEMCO
RIGHT BOTTOM: Peddinghaus CNC technology
gives LEMCO the competitive edge needed for the
Southern African market.

shot cleaning solution from Peddinghaus at
their Keimoes facility in the Western Cape.
“When we started investing in Peddinghaus
machines, our production skyrocketed,”
Pieter Laubscher, Jr., Co-owner explained. “I
remember the first week we bought the drill
line. We were busy with a massive plant.
Before we started using the machine, we did
approximately 80 columns per week. Aer the
Advantage-2, we went up to 500 columns per
week so it made a massive difference.”
Growth in an Unpredictable Market
Andries confirms that LEMCO is still growing
despite the tough South African economy
of the past nine years. The South African
steel market is still fairly unaware of what
modern fabricating equipment can offer. For
this reason, LEMCO is placing a strong focus
on their “design and supply” projects where
technology in combination with cutting-edge
designs provide customers with optimized and
cost-efficient solutions.
Crediting innovation investments, Andries,
Pieter, Jr. and the LEMCO team continue to
evolve amidst the structural steel business
cycle. Relying on CNC to meet timely deadlines
and provide a solution to local labor shortage,
LEMCO pushes forward as a market leader.
“The work we’ve done in the renewable energy
market the last three years is comparable
with top international companies,” Andries
confidently stated. “To get compliments that
our standard of work is up there with the best
in the world is really satisfying.
Our relationship with Peddinghaus and what I
really enjoy is that it’s a family environment.
It’s very personal and good service all the way.
I cannot think of any other brand of machinery
in South Africa that can provide the same
service.”
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 TOP TEN | WAYS PEDDINGHAUS HAS REVOLUTIONIZED THE STRUCTURAL STEEL INDUSTRY

1903  PEDDINGHAUS ORIGINATES 1914  PRODUCT EXPANSION TO MEET

1 2 MARKET DEMANDS

Founded by Mr. Paul F. Peddinghaus, initial product lines introduced

include drop forged anvils and hammers.

1930  PEDDINGHAUS MODERNIZES

3 INDUSTRY WITH 1ST MOTORIZED
UNIVERSAL IRONWORKER

Peddinghaus grows with the development of hand operated

punching and shearing machines.

Peddinghaus releases the first-ever motorized universal

1985  A MATCH MADE FOR CNC: DRILLING MEETS
ironworker and advances industry processing methods.
5 SAWING
1974  ANGLE IRON PROCESSING & BEAM
4 DRILL LINE EXPANSION

The third generation of family management enters

with Dr. Carl U. Peddinghaus, and Peddinghaus
expands their structural fabrication product lines. The concept of combined drill and sawing fabrication is introduced.

24
 1987  THE INDUSTRY’S 1ST CNC COPING MACHINE IS BORN
6

Peddinghaus pioneered the structural steel industry’s first-ever coping machine.

1991  NEW PLATE PROCESSING METHOD PROVES 2001  MEET THE 4TH GENERATION
7 PRODUCTIVE 8 OF FAMILY MANAGEMENT

Mr. Carl G. (Anton) Peddinghaus, current CEO,

expands U.S. manufacturing facilities to-date
Peddinghaus releases the first-ever combined punching and cutting with over 500,000 square feet (50,000 square
one-pass plate processing line. meters) for 21st century innovations.

2011  MAKING THE 1ST MARK WITH AUTOMATED 2016  THE PEDDI XDM PUSHES THE
9 LAYOUT 10 PROCESSING ENVELOPE

The Peddi XDM drill/saw is the first of its kind to

combine carbide drilling, miter sawing, 4-axis
Peddinghaus presents the first-ever dedicated CNC layout marking scribing, tapping, countersinking and milling (slot
machine. and cope) into one, space-saving machine.

25
 GETTING TO KNOW | DUANE BATES

Meet Duane – Peddinghaus’ Pre-Installation

and Training Department Manager
Production is only as good as your weakest or
unskilled operator. Professional training is vital to
the success of your CNC investment. At Peddinghaus,
we understand that a well-trained employee
helps increase productivity and profitability while
promoting maximum workplace safety. By taking a
proactive approach to training, resolve issues before
they become one.
Duane is an 11-year member of the Peddinghaus
family of employees who is your resource from
the time your machine sale is completed until a
technician is scheduled for installation. Duane
oversees everything in between, answering any
technicial inquiries and making certain your facility is
ready to receive the technology without any delays.
As the training department manager, Duane schedules
all customer-related and field service technician
training to provide partners with the tools necessary
for CNC machinery and soware success. Duane also
heads the new PeddiUniversity training and education
programs at the world corporate headquarters in
Bradley, Illinois.
“I help Peddinghaus customers succeed by
being a problem-solver,” Duane explained. “With
pre-installation, I am helping the customer navigate
through the process of getting their machinery
installed. Frequently, I am able to identify potential
problem areas they didn’t even realize they were
going to have.”
With the grand opening of the new PeddiUniversity,
Duane is looking forward to teaching larger class
sizes. Modern technology paired with an advanced
learning environment will further confirm operators
receive the best training opportunity while at
Peddinghaus.
“When you have larger class sizes,” Duane described,
“you get more opinions and viewpoints. The customers
not only learn from me, but from each other as they
share individual experiences and practices they
utilize.”
When Duane isn’t cheering on the Chicago Cubs
professional baseball team, you can find him cycling,
hiking and dabbling in photography. Next time
you’re in Bradley, be sure to ask Duane about his
hole-in-one experience!
“With the different training opportunities Peddinghaus
offers and the different methods for delivering that
training, I believe we are well-positioned to address
the need of our customers today and for many years
to come.”
 PEDDIPICTURES

JPW Structural located in Syracuse, New York is currently fabricating an 1,100 ton amphitheater in Chautauqua, New York
with the use of their Peddinghaus BDL-1250/D heavy duty drill line and DG-1250 structural band saw in tandem. 27
 TOOLBOX | WELCOME TO PEDDIUNIVERSITY

28
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Enroll at the New State-of-the-Art added benefits. It improves performance, Peddinghaus takes training one-step further
Training & Development Center satisfaction, safety, morale and reduces the by making the trip to Bradley, Illinois easy
As the old saying goes, ‘the more you know,
the more you grow’. This statement holds true
to the operation of your CNC technology. Aer
purchasing a new vehicle, would you let just
anyone drive it? Probably not. When investing
in CNC, it is imperative that your operators be
well-equipped to handle your investments. At
Peddinghaus, we are dedicated to providing
the tools for our partners’ long-term success.
Introducing PeddiUniversity – a brand-new,
state-of-the-art training and development center
located at our world corporate headquarters in
Bradley, IL, USA.
While it is oen neglected, training is extremely
valuable to the all-important bottom line. It can
be considered preventative maintenance for
your employees - ensuring they have the tools
and knowledge they need to regularly perform
tasks to the best of their ability. The ongoing
development of your employees also has many
amount of supervision they may require.
Of course, besides the benefits for the employee,
what about the employer? Three key areas of
training are improved productivity, increased
profitability and the all-mighty competitive
advantage. As your employees’ performance
increases, so does your productivity and in
return, profitability. Training can also provide
added flexibility in your staff, giving the
employer the ability to move people around as
needed.
As the structural steel fabrication industry
advances, so does processing and the
Peddinghaus technology. Maximize your
production and profitability with a variety of
programs available. To meet your training
needs, we are currently updating our curriculum
to provide a more comprehensive training
experience.
for trainees, operators, programmers or
production management to attend Peddi-U.
With airport transport to/from campus, local
ground transportation available and hotel
accommodations, all you have to do is show up
ready to learn! While at PeddiUniversity, we’ll
even provide meals at the PeddiCafe dining
hall made by our own, Chef Marc. You’ll also
enjoy a tour of the Peddinghaus campus, where
you’ll experience a behind-the-scenes look at
our innovations and experience the company
culture that is the Peddinghaus family of
employees.
To learn more about the Peddinghaus training
programs available at PeddiUniversity, contact
Duane Bates duane-bates@peddinghaus.com
29
 TOPPING OUT
Lyle
LLyyle
le Menke
Meennke
ke
CSO
CCS
SSOO | Peddinghaus
Pedd
Pe
edd
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ingghhau
in aus Corporation
Corp
Co rpoorraattio
tio
ion
Are You Ready for 2017?
As I write, we have settled into 2017. Every New
Year is always met with hopeful expectations
and the desire for a brighter future. Well, 2017
already is showing a BIG upside – especially for
steel construction in North America. Let’s just
look at three facts for this year:
1. In the January 2017 Modern Steel Construction,
the AISC seer, VP John Cross, anticipates an
overall growth of 4% in 2017 for the prime
building sector market on a square foot basis.
Subsequent years may not match this growth,
but 2017 looks promising.
2. The American Institute of Architects confirmed
the year end billings report score increased
from 50.6 to 55.9% depicting the highest
monthly increase in 2016. This means that
architects are extremely busy working on new
construction projects which directly translates
into new business.
3. Infrastructure construction is being promoted
by both parties of Congress, and is a “sweet
spot” for the new administration. Yeah, we’ve
heard of “shovel ready” projects in the past,
but the new administration confirms their
commitment to meeting this national necessity.
At Peddinghaus, we continually survey our
customers on activity, and many fabricators
– both large and small – confirm increased
bidding, better margins and more steel
construction projects on the horizon.
30
NASCC…San Antonio…March…Perfect!
Start making your travel plans now to attend the
NASCC Conference March 22 – 24 in San Antonio.
The NASCC is an annual rite of spring, and San
Antonio is the perfect location for 2017.
Many of you remember that San Antonio hosted
the NASCC in 2006. Want to take a little walk
down memory lane?
Remember The Alamo…I mean... 2006
San Antonio NASCC
Scott Melnick, AISC V.P. shared his favorite
NASCC memory from 2006. “We had a big jump
in attendance in San Antonio, which set the
state for continued growth of the NASCC.”
“For the first time, the AISC brought in a keynote
speaker and he absolutely wowed the audience.
Gene Kranz was the mission control specialist
from the Apollo 13 mission and he really
resonated with the attendees.”
Fab Shop of the Future
In 2006, Peddinghaus introduced the
“Fabrication Shop of the Future”. A totally new
multi-spindle drill line, and a new concept in
band sawing technology called “SPEED SAWING”
was introduced. A fully integrated material
handling system was displayed which depicted
the money saved by eliminating unnecessary
crane handling.
Peddinghaus announced the FPDB 2500 - the
“Powerhaus”. This was the first machine to
combine both punching and drilling technologies
for heavy plate processing.
Fast Forward to 2017 – Today’s
Technologies
Today’s drill lines now feature carbide
technologies for high speed hole making,
tapping, countersinking and even milling of
copes and cut outs. Band sawing is produced
even faster through improved techniques.
PeddiMatic intelligent material handling systems
are rewriting the book on handling steel.
Automated plate processing – the HSFDB series
– are the high speed standard for processing
thick or thin plate in minutes with minimal need
for manual labor. Add parts discharge conveyors
to plate systems to further streamline the
production process.
What do you love about the NASCC?
Everyone has a special reason to attend
NASCC annually. Experiencing new technology,
watching machines in action, earning PDH
credits, learning from expert speakers,
networking with peers are all valid reasons
to attend. But for me, it’s a little different. To
me, attending the NASCC is kind of like a
homecoming or class reunion at your old high
school – a celebration of industry friends.
Stop by Peddinghaus booth 5016 for a visit to
catch up on all things past, present and future.
From past friendships to tomorrow’s technology,
we have a lot to talk about. See you there!
 COUNTERSINK

The Power of Peddinghaus is in its People!

March 2017
1st – Istok Budic, Advanced Soware Engineering Manager, 10 Years
5th – Bryan Huffines, Assembly Technician, 10 Years
5th – Daniel Lahners, Engineering, 10 Years
12th – Cathy Little, Scheduler/Expeditor, 10 Years
12th – Darlene Priest, Stock Room Associate, 10 Years
19th – Thomas Williams, Field Service Technician, 10 Years
19th – Ben Turner, Field Service Technician, 5 Years
19th – Joshua Thacker, Inside Sales, 5 Years
April 2017
13th – Todd Cordes, International Sales Manager, 5 Years
21st – Paul Milk, CNC Machinist, 20 Years
21st – Christopher Stueck, CNC Machinist, 20 Years
24th – Cheryl Werner, Credit & Collections Manager, 15 Years
28th – Jeff Tisdale, Production Control, 20 Years
May 2017
7th – Gregory Denault, SSSL Technician, 5 Years
12th – Rob Ganzer, Field Service Technician, 15 Years
13th – Mark McDermott, Engineering, 20 Years
26th – Darren Hawkinson, Inside Service, 10 Years
June 2017
8th – Karl Riechers, CNC Machinist, 10 Years
18th – Nick Pickering, Engineering, 5 Years
25th – Shane Lamie, Export Coordinator, 10 Years
30th – Israel Rodriguez, Paint Technician, 20 Years

Congratulations to our Peddinghaus family of employees on achieving

these milestone anniversaries!
 PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE

UP AND COMING PAID

PERMIT NO. 169
JOLIET, IL

March 22nd -24th North American Steel Construction

Conference
gÓ- 2""Ó3GDÓ2SDDKÓ"NMEDQDMBD
gÓSan Antonio, Texas, USA
Booth #5016

May 2nd - 4th Mexico’s Metal Forming,

Fabricating, Welding and
gÓ% !3$"'Ó,DWHBNÓ Finishing Event
gÓMonterrey, Mexico
Booth #1517

May 9th - 12th Australia’s Premier Advanced

Manufacturing & Machine Tool
gÓ TRSDBGÓ Exhibition
gÓMelbourne, Australia
Booth #855

June 6th - 9th Poland’s International Innovative

Technologies & Machines Fair
gÓ(3,Ó/NK@MC
ÓgÓPoznan, Poland

IN THIS PHOTO: Distribution center project in South Africa by LEMCO

www.peddinghaus.com

32