Welcome to Smart Solutions
Smart Solutions case studies highlight how MCAA contractors and Manufacturer/Supplier Council members collaborate to improve productivity, manage costs, and solve real‑world project challenges. Each case study focuses on practical applications of products, technologies, and processes that deliver measurable results across mechanical construction, service, fabrication, and operations.
Through real project examples, Smart Solutions provides insight into how contractors are applying innovative solutions to streamline workflows, improve coordination, and enhance overall performance. Explore the case studies below to identify ideas, approaches, and proven practices that can be adapted to your own operations.
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Dramatically Increase Efficiency
With a large project on the horizon and more on the way, AMS Industries, Inc. invested in a Watts Specialties, LLC pipe cutting machine and immediately reaped benefits. “Pipe cuts that were previously taking one man 40 hours to complete are now being cut in 8 hours—including olets!” said Beth Thullen, fabrication shop superintendent at AMS.
Going Big: Adding a Second Pipe Cutter Leads to More Efficiency with Watts Specialties & Alexander Mechanical, Inc.
Alexander Mechanical, Inc. purchased its first Watts pipe cutting machine in 2020 and immediately increased efficiency and decreased material costs. So as business grew and fabrication jobs started calling for bigger pipe, Alexander Mechanical bought a second, larger Watts pipe cutter that again increased efficiency and also offered more flexibility.
Harris Realizes Immediate ROI With Watts Specialties Pipe Cutter
Harris saw an immediate return on investment (ROI) from their Watts Specialties automated pipe cutter, with improved efficiency in cutting and handling and no need for hand-cutting for olets or saddles. Based in St. Paul, MN, Harris has 15 regional offices with more than 300,000 square feet of fabrication shops.
Additional Pipe Cutter Increases Capacity & Trims Waste with Watts Specialties, LLC & Progressive Mechanical, Inc.
Progressive Mechanical, Inc. added a second Watts pipe cutting machine to keep up with shop demand, gaining capabilities and cutting waste. Progressive Mechanical has fabrication shops in Clawson and Bay City, MI.
