Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Marietta, Pa., R&T Mechanical has transformed from a millwright service provider into one of the most respected metal fabricators and industrial service partners in the industry. The company, now boasting a dedicated team of 75 employees, manages a diverse array of projects – everything from production work to custom orders – using materials such as steel, aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic, urethane and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW).
R&T Mechanical serves a broad spectrum of industries and customers, providing specialty design work, fabrication and installation, industrial ductwork and machining services. To meet these varied needs, the company employs plasma and waterjet cutting technologies, leveraging the unique advantages each method offers.
The journey into cutting-edge technology began in 1994 when R&T Mechanical made a strategic move to enhance its production capabilities by investing in plasma cutting technology. The company partnered with Alltra Corp. as its chosen equipment and service provider in the early years, and the partnership continues today. R&T further expanded its technological prowess in 2019 by incorporating waterjet technology, significantly enhancing efficiency and versatility.
Part of R&T’s plasma investment included acquiring an 8-ft.-by-20-ft. plasma cutting table in the year 2000, primarily to increase capacity and efficiency in metal cutting, especially for duct work and piping projects. Over the years, the company has utilized Hypertherm HPR400 and XPR300 plasma cutting systems, continually upgrading to stay at the forefront of technological advancements. The technology has allowed R&T to handle thick materials with high precision, meeting the exacting standards required by its diverse clientele.
Implementing waterjet
The addition of waterjet technology in 2019 marked another milestone in R&T’s commitment to innovation. Inspired by the precision of laser cutting, the company evaluated waterjet technology to deliver unique capabilities, such as cutting different materials like urethane and UHMW with thicknesses up to 8 in. The introduction of an Omax waterjet machine enabled R&T to insource cutting services and improve the efficiency in machining operations by producing near-net shapes. The latest waterjet purchase, a Omax 120X with an EnduroMax 50-hp direct-drive pump and Ajet cutting head provides 5-axis cutting capability, further enhancing the company’s ability to handle complex projects.
Despite not having a sales team, R&T has built a successful business through word-of-mouth and referrals. The company takes immense pride in its high-quality part aesthetics and timely service delivery. A robust millwright division supports shop operations and provides field services, reinforcing the R&T’s reputation for reliability. The millwright division is integral to ensuring seamless coordination between shop operations and field services, maintaining the high standards that customers have come to expect.
R&T’s commitment to quality is evident in every project the team there undertakes. This ensures that all parts meet stringent quality standards with a particular focus on aesthetics and functionality. Timeliness is another cornerstone of success. The team understands the importance of delivering projects on schedule and has built its reputation on meeting and exceeding customer deadlines. This commitment to quality and timeliness has earned a loyal customer base and numerous referrals.
A team effort
One of the company’s greatest assets is its skilled and experienced workforce, boasting low turnover and high retention rates. Many employees have been with R&T for more than seven years with some serving more than 20 years. This longevity is a testament to its commitment to a safe, professional work environment and its dedication to exceeding customer expectations.
A focus on creating a positive work environment has resulted in exceptional employee retention rates. The company fosters a culture of safety, professionalism and continuous learning, ensuring that employees feel valued and engaged. This commitment to employee satisfaction translates into high-quality work and a stable, experienced workforce that customers can trust.
Dean Burkholder, a company project manager, who joined R&T in 1995, has been a driving force behind the company’s growth and technological advancements. Working together with other team leaders at R&T has been crucial in evaluating and adopting new cutting technologies, including the procurement of the Omax waterjet machine and Hypertherm plasma cutting systems. The leadership team’s efforts at R&T have significantly expanded the capacity for handling a diverse range of materials and complex projects, positioning the company as an industry leader.
Continuous improvement
Clearly, R&T is committed to continuous improvement and investment in cutting-edge technology. In 2008, Hypertherm’s ProNest software was implemented to optimize plate utilization for duct fittings, streamlining production processes and reducing waste. The most recent equipment acquisition in 2024, the Alltra HG 16 Series plasma/waterjet table with contour bevel and Hypertherm XPR460, has further enhanced processing speeds and versatility. This new system allows for faster hole cutting, bevel cutting and production of slag-free parts on thick plates, significantly improving overall efficiency.
The strategic addition of advanced cutting systems has enabled R&T to reduce secondary operations and rework, thereby minimizing reliance on subcontractors. The introduction of the Alltra HG 16 Series has provided the company with greater flexibility in handling custom and emergency work. This versatility is essential in meeting the varied and often urgent needs of a diverse clientele.
The advanced cutting technologies adopted by R&T have not only improved operational efficiency but they have also elevated the quality of company services. The team can now tackle intricate projects with greater confidence, ensuring high-quality results that meet or exceed customer expectations. This capability has enhanced customer satisfaction and strengthened the company’s reputation as a reliable and innovative metal fabrication partner.
By integrating advanced technologies, R&T has successfully addressed several operational bottlenecks. The reduction in secondary operations and rework has streamlined production workflows, leading to faster turnaround times. This efficiency translates into cost savings for both R&T and its customers, making the company a preferred choice for high-stakes projects requiring precision and reliability.
Looking ahead
With a steadfast commitment to quality and continuous improvement, R&T is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company’s ongoing investment in advanced technologies and the maintenance of a dedicated, skilled workforce ensure that it will continue to excel in the metal fabrication industry for years to come.
A forward-thinking approach positions the company for sustained growth and development. By continually upgrading its technological capabilities and fostering a culture of innovation, R&T remains at the forefront of the industry. The focus on quality and efficiency will undoubtedly drive future successes, allowing the entire team to meet new challenges and seize emerging opportunities.
A commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of R&T’s operations. From leadership and workforce development to technological investments, the company prioritizes quality and customer satisfaction. This unwavering dedication ensures that R&T will maintain its status as a trusted and innovative partner in metal fabrication.
Overall, leadership, continuous improvement initiatives and strategic investments in advanced technologies have positioned R&T for ongoing success. With a focus on quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction, the company is set to remain a leader in the metal fabrication industry for the foreseeable future.
