Cutting and precision tool manufacturer and distributor First Cut has recently expanded its cutting and grinding range of product and service offerings to include welding solutions.

This expansion was prompted as the welding process is the next natural step that follows the cutting process in the sheet metal processing and manufacturing value chain in the fabrication and allied sectors. It therefore forms an integral part of the entire process.

“Forming the backbone of the broader South African economy, the steel, fabrication and metal processing sectors are essential, producing critical products required across industries – from power generation, to the petrochemicals sector.

“While First Cut meets the needs of a vast range of industries through a total cutting solutions approach, a subsequent and logical next step in the value chain is the progression to a holistic basket of the latest technology, quality welding products and services to complement our cutting and grinding product ranges,” says First Cut MD Andrew Poole.

As a result of this expansion, Poole mentions that customers not only have access to cutting solutions, but faster and easier access to welding solutions required for their value chain from First Cut.

“This creates an enhanced value proposition for the customers, as they can source what they need, when they need it locally and from a strategically-positioned and situated distributor and manufacturer.”

There will always be an unceasing demand for the manufacturing of new products, machines and systems for new operations and uses within the steel, fabrication and metal processing industries. This includes the requisition of parts and spares for maintenance and repairs, construction or rehabilitation projects.

As such, these industries constantly require a reliable supply of welding equipment and machines; as well as the knowledge to meet sector needs and to ensure smooth welding processes for optimum operational continuity and sustainable construction, maintenance and production. These needs drive the continuous demand for welding solutions.

Service & Product Expansion

This expansion of our service and product offerings has been met with a favourable and enthusiastic response, as First Cut’s existing and new customers are encouraged by the proposition of sourcing a comprehensive supply of welding equipment, consumables and knowledge, in addition to its well-known cutting solutions – all from one consolidated provider.

Through this expansion, First Cut’s customers can leverage off various advantages, which include the convenience and efficiency of consolidated orders from a single and local vendor, as well as enhanced lead times and time savings in dealing with one supplier or provider, notes Poole.

First Cut currently manufactures the high-quality range of Messer Supershield, Fedfina and Fednox stick electrodes under licence from cutting solutions provider Messer Germany. These include electrodes for mild steel, stainless steels, carbon-manganese steels, problem steels, gouging and hard-facing applications.

Recent additions to the First Cut Welding division’s product portfolio include machines such as the portable and compact Messer Hand-Plasma Cutter 70 CT; the full range of oxyfuel equipment for all cutting, brazing and heating applications; as well as hoses, the Tornado oxygen/acetylene regulators, flashback arrestors, welding torches and nozzles.

The Welding division’s offering of Messer products is backed by the principal’s support, its history and expertise going back 120 years, and consequent leadership in cutting systems.

While there were minimal challenges experienced during the company’s expansion of offerings, the Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly presented one of the greatest challenges faced by industry. This challenge was faced in continued and sustainable operations across industries locally and globally. This led to the need to drive a renewed focus on adaptability and innovation, to remain at the cutting edge of business.

“The pandemic, however, has posed minimal challenges during First Cut’s expansion, as we strive to provide a commendable stock availability based on strategically-planned lead and delivery times. In addition, with the local manufacture of Messer electrodes, we can also ensure products are readily and quickly available to our local customer base,” explains Poole.

Further, First Cut continues to operate according to all government and occupational health-regulated Covid-19 protocols, to ensure the safety of First Cut customers and employees.