As another example, Bedrock Stone, a concrete recycling facility, replaced its oxy-fuel setup and other plasma cutter for one Miller Spectrum 1000 plasma cutter and saved $52,000, while solving equipment portability and dirty power issues. The Spectrum paid for itself in 1.3 months.

It's important to note that Patrick, as well as AZCO, Bedrock and Apex steel, already had equipment on hand that would do the job. But they sought solutions that would work even better. The lesson here doesn't just concern the virtues of a Spectrum plasma cutter or PipePro 304. The larger lesson concerns the need to constantly reevaluate existing processes to see if a better solution  one that addresses your KBIs - exists.

That's where the MillerWelds.com/Results site comes in. It's designed to be a tool that prompts readers to reexamine their welding operations in ways they may not have considered before. It's also designed to present a forum, through the Viewpoints Blog, where these issues can be discussed. If you're wondering where you're going to find your workforce in the coming years or whether it makes more sense to rent or buy equipment, you're not alone. Visit Viewpoints and add your thoughts.

Just because your existing equipment isn't broken, doesn't mean it's still the best tool for the job. Read a few of the executive summaries on the MillerWelds.com/Results site and let them help you look at your welding operation with fresh eyes. A few moments of your time spent there twice a month, may be one of the best investments you make this year.

Neal Borchert is a certified welding inspector and businesses development manager with Miller Electric Mfg. Co. In his 30 years at Miller, he's been a welding instructor, coordinator of weld process training and product manager. He's been involved in the training of and the introduction of new technologies to the construction trades. Neal also leads Miller's training efforts with educational institutions. You can email Neal at INFO@MillerWelds.com