RITCHIE AGRICULTURAL
We’re proud to have our own onsite hot-dip galvanising facility. Now read why it makes us a sensible choice!
We are the only fabricator with an on-site plant in Scotland and one of a very small number in the UK. Featuring the UK’s only fully automated product handling system. Meaning faster processing times, consistent coating quality, and maximum safety for our operators.
The plant’s advanced handling system minimises damage during processing while maintaining a constant flow of material.
The facility operates with a strong focus on environmental responsibility. The galvanising process is meticulously controlled by experienced and highly skilled supervisors and operatives.
Having this capability in-house strengthens our manufacturing process and supports close collaboration between our engineers and fabricators. Ensuring efficiency and quality at every stage.
It has an immediate impact for the client
Our on-site galvanising plant allows for accurate project planning, rapid resolution of unforeseen issues, and strict project timelines.
The operations manager and the galvanising plant manager communicate directly. Providing swift decision-making and smooth adaptation for a range of product requirements.
From a cost perspective, in-house galvanising eliminates additional transport requirements, external supplier charges, and the risk of damage during transit between facilities.
Beyond operational efficiency, the arrangement also safeguards confidentiality; sensitive designs remain within Ritchie’s facilities. Reducing supplier involvement, minimising handling, and mitigating potential risks to data security and project integrity.
Collaboration improves outcomes
Ritchie upholds the principles of quality, innovation, integrity, and performance.
Close collaboration between teams fosters new solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and overall product performance.
Our engineers identify and address potential issues or design developments early (before they impact project outcomes). Galvanising expertise informs design decisions from the outset.
By working closely across both the machine shop floor and the galvanising plant, engineers refine designs and resolve fabrication challenges prior to production, reducing the risk of costly errors.
The integrated workflow ensures continuity, with modifications to designs, finishes, or specifications managed swiftly in-house, free from external supplier delays.
By retaining responsibility from concept through to delivery, Ritchie provides clients with assurance of control, consistency, and reliability.
At every stage of the project lifecycle, products are optimised for durability and long-term performance in demanding industrial environments.
For example, we sometimes collaborate directly with our galvanising team on the suitability of steel for coating. We specify exact chemical ranges for elements like phosphorous (P) and silicon (Si), because if these fall outside the preferred range, the galvanise may not adhere properly. On the rare occasions this happens, we’ll take a cut-off sample from that batch and run a test dip before committing to production. More often than not, even if the levels are slightly outside tolerance, it still galvanises perfectly well – but by checking proactively, we remove the risk entirely before it ever becomes a problem for the customer.
Overall – why Ritchie, with its on-site Galvanising plant is the sensible choice
The ability to share feedback immediately and in close proximity enhances knowledge transfer, streamlines design refinement, and improves manufacturing processes.
In addition, keeping all stages in-house eliminates the need for multiple shipments, reducing handling requirements and minimising transport-related risks.
The result is a more efficient project timeline, with quality safeguarded at every stage of production.
