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TG Industries Navigates Key Equipment Decision with CIRAS Guidance

Author: gmallen

When evaluating a significant equipment investment, TG Industries turned to CIRAS for objective guidance to ensure the decision aligned with its operational needs and long-term strategy.

TG Industries Logo, features the words "ARM LIFT" in red and black.

Company Overview

TG Industries Inc., founded in 1973 and based in Armstrong, Iowa, employs 22 people and specializes in high-quality telescoping aerial lifting devices.

The company designs, manufactures, and installs aerial lifting devices on 19,500 GVWR truck chassis, tandem and single-axle trailers, fiber-optic splicing units, and heavy-duty Toro and John Deere utility vehicles.

Serving commercial customers, municipalities, and golf courses throughout the United States, TG Industries has earned a strong reputation for durable designs, dependable performance, and a continued commitment to innovation and improvement.

Situation

As TG Industries prepared to replace its aging plasma cutter, the company faced an important capital investment decision. A vendor was promoting a fiber laser as an alternative, and during a temporary period of outsourcing, the company observed differences in cut quality produced by laser systems.

With a major investment under consideration, company leadership wanted to fully understand the operational, financial, and workforce implications of each option. The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Manufacturing 4.0 Technology Investment Grant Program was available at the time, and an Industry 4.0 assessment was required as part of the application process.

Solution

TG Industries engaged CIRAS to conduct the Industry 4.0 assessment. Rather than simply validating a vendor recommendation, CIRAS provided an independent, unbiased evaluation of the advantages and tradeoffs between purchasing a fiber laser and replacing the plasma cutter.

The assessment examined the potential for cost savings, insourcing opportunities, workforce readiness, maintenance requirements, and the long-term return on investment. While a laser system offered certain quality and efficiency advantages, the analysis also outlined the operational requirements and ongoing technical support necessary to implement it successfully.

Through a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation, TG Industries assessed what was technologically feasible and what was operationally appropriate for the company.

Results

After reviewing the findings, TG Industries chose to replace its plasma cutter rather than invest in a laser system. The decision restored in-house production capacity and aligned with the company’s current workforce expertise and operational structure.

The project resulted in:

  • $75,000 in cost savings associated with the IEDA Manufacturing 4.0 Technology Investment Grant Program
  • $142,314 in plant and equipment investment
  • In total, the engagement generated $217,314 in reported economic impact.

By leveraging CIRAS as an objective advisor, TG Industries navigated a complex technology decision with confidence. Access to unbiased expertise allowed the company to make a practical, forward-thinking investment that strengthens operations and supports long-term competitiveness.

Contact Ty Hill for more information on an Industry 4.0 Assessment for your business.

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