Fabrication of automated machines and fixtures
Wolf Machine fabricates automated machines and fixtures: welding fixtures, holding fixtures, special-purpose machines and assemblies built from your idea, your drawing or an existing setup. Design assistance is part of the work, from the first sketch to a fixture that does its job on the floor.
- Built from your specifications, drawings or samples
- Free consultations, prompt estimates
- Wolf Machine stands behind the work we perform
- Reno shop, Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm
Stock photo: a welder joining a steel structure, sparks flying
A fixture is what makes a repeat job repeatable. It holds the part in the right place so the weld lands where it should, the hole is drilled where it belongs and the next piece goes in the same way as the last. The shop's own list names this work directly: fabrication of automated machines and fixtures.
At a glance
- Welding fixtures for repeat assemblies
- Holding fixtures and clamps for machining or inspection
- Special-purpose machines and assemblies
- Design assistance from idea to working fixture
I have used Wolf Machine several times over the past few years for fabricating and repair of parts on my ultralight aircraft. [...] These guys are great to deal with. I wouldn't take my projects anywhere else.
What is an automated welding fixture?
A welding fixture is a table or frame with locating stops and clamps that holds the pieces of an assembly in exact position while they are welded. An automated version adds powered clamping or movement so the operator loads the parts and the fixture does the holding and positioning.
We have built automated welding fixtures for the telecommunications industry, with fabrication and design assistance. The work combines machining, for the accurate locating features, with fabrication, for the frame that carries them.
From idea to working fixture
A job often starts with a part and a problem: every unit has to be welded the same way, or drilled in the same place. They may not have a fixture drawing, or even a clear idea of what the fixture should look like. That is where the design assistance matters.
A typical path begins with the part itself. The shop looks at how the part is positioned, which surfaces locate it, where the tools need access, and how an operator will load it. A fixture is then drawn, built and tried with the real part before it goes to work.
- Show the part and describe the operation the fixture supports.
- Agree which surfaces locate the part and where the clamps go.
- The shop designs and builds the fixture.
- The fixture is tried with the real part and adjusted.
- The fixture goes into service, and the part count builds up with it.
Special-purpose machines and assemblies
Some jobs call for a small machine built around a single task rather than a fixture alone: a frame, a drive, a guide, a holder. The photo above shows a grinder unit, a machined housing mounted on plate flanges and coupled to an electric motor, both set on a fabricated base. Work like that combines metal fabrication with machined parts.
If the machine has parts that move or rotate, the custom machining and tool and die work pages cover the pieces that go into it.
Starting a fixture or machine project
Send a photo or drawing of the part the fixture will hold, the number of units you plan to make, and a note on what is going wrong with the current method. A sketch of your idea is welcome. Use the quote request or call (775) 359-5570, Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. Free consultations are available.
Sources
- Wolf Machine & Fabrication home page (2026-10-18)
- Wolf Machine & Fabrication services list (2026-10-18)
What the shop builds
- Welding fixtures that locate and clamp parts for repeat welds
- Holding fixtures for machining operations
- Assembly stands and jigs
- Special-purpose machines built around one task
- Machined and welded components for existing lines
Typical parts
- Welding fixtures
- Locating plates and clamps
- Assembly jigs
- Frames and bases for special machines
How to send us the job
Tell us the material if you know it, the quantity and when you need it, then attach the drawing or photos. We review requests during shop hours and call or email with questions.
Related
Questions about this service
From the shop
Work from the shop
Metal and plastic fabrication
Related services
Straight answers
Automated machines and fixtures questions
Still have a question? Call (775) 359-5570, Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Can you design the fixture for me?
Yes. The shop will work from your part, drawings or samples and can assist you in designing the fixture.
What materials are fixtures made from?
Fixtures are usually fabricated from steel, with aluminum or plastic used where the application calls for it.
Is a fixture only for welding?
No. Fixtures also hold parts for machining, drilling and assembly.
Send us the job
Request a quote
Tell us what you need, attach a drawing or photos of the part, and we will get back to you during shop hours. Free consultations; prompt estimates.
- From your specifications, drawings or samples. We can also assist you in designing your product or part.
- Free consultations and prompt estimates
- Stands behind the work: Our rates are very competitive and our quality is second-to-none. Wolf Machine stands behind the work we perform.
- Company accounts: all major credit cards, or we can open an account for your company
Shop hours Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. Send your request any time and we will get back to you during shop hours.
Stock photo: a lathe turning a bar, hot chips flying