Global Steel Manufacturing Ltd is a family-owned business that was established over 30 years ago by Jim O Connor in County Wexford, Ireland. He still plays a hands-on role with his management team in running the business which employs 40 people.
The company offers a variety of services including: fibre laser cutting, waterjet cutting, plasma cutting, stainless and mild steel fabrication, CNC press break folding, powder coating and site installation.
Operating from a new, purpose-built premises on the outskirts of Enniscorthy, and fitted out with modern fabrication and machine shop equipment. Global Steel offers a wide range of specialised engineering products and services to all sections of industry, particularly food processing, pharmaceutical, telecommunications and related sectors.
The company has embarked on a five-year plan to grow the business by double digits year-on-year with turnover reaching 3 million euros in 2020. To underpin this rapid expansion, Global Steel is actively creating new jobs.
The company’s business model is based on quality of product, just-in-time delivery and a repeatable service experience.
A Bystronic BySmart 3kW fibre laser cutting machine — the first of its type in Ireland – was purchased in 2020 from Coventry-based
Bystronic UK Ltd along with a 4m press brake to meet the demands of its customers.
The company then placed an order for a second Bystronic fibre laser machine in June this year due for delivery next month. This 4kw machine will significantly further increase the company’s ability to penetrate the contract cutting and folding market.
Bystronic was selected as being a top quality supplier of lasers and press brakes equipment with a knowledgeable and prompt support service team. The BySmart Fiber offers outstanding cutting performance for high-component output and excellent cutting quality with thin to medium sheet metal thicknesses.
Installation of the first Bystronic laser took place in March 2020. The introduction of the fibre laser machine presented a technical solution in the expansion of the business, particularly in the context of a shortage of qualified welders.
The company is currently reorganising to expand laser run time by introducing a new shift pattern in its laser department which will significantly increase capacity.
Led by production manager Paul Cullen, training was provided to a group of highly motivated individuals who have been cross trained on the key requirements of this department, namely drawing, laser machine operation and folding.
Meanwhile, a new factory extension has been completed to not only cater for the laser machine, but also a relocation of the fabrication shops and the creation of a material storage area. In addition, Global Steel is currently pursuing a site earmarked for future expansion necessary to fulfil the company’s expansion plans in two to three years time.
Global Steel enhanced capabilities are targeted to better meet the needs of its existing customers as well as increase its customer base. General manger Hugh O’Byrne emphasised the expansion with new customers will focus on laser cutting and folding while also providing complementary services for fabrication and powder coating/painting where required.
In the waterjet area the company has the ability to cut heavier/specialised materials up to 150mm and will target customers with these specific needs.
In fabrication the company plans to primarily target customers requiring fabrication
who have repeat products which the company believes will lend itself to automation
where this is possible.