How Starland Metals is Doing Automation Right
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FROM ONE USED ROBOT TO A FULLY AUTOMATED SHOP
When brothers Colin and Jadon Decker set out to automate Starland Metals in 2020, they didn’t start with a massive investment. They found a pre-owned CLOOS robot online. It was a gamble, but it worked.
Today, around 98 percent of their production runs on automation. The majority of robots on their floor are CLOOS systems.
“CLOOS is one company that does everything, and that’s pretty rare.”
— Colin and Jadon Decker, Owners, Starland Metals
THE PUNCHLIST
The Customer: Starland Metals, Minnesota
The Need: A dependable way to boost throughput, improve weld consistency, and reduce pressure on skilled labor, without the overhead of a large automation investment.
The Fix: CLOOS delivered immediate ROI even on a pre-owned system. When it came time to expand, the Deckers doubled down, choosing CLOOS for reliable equipment, direct service, and responsive support.
-98% of production now automated
-Reduced downtime through a direct OEM service model
-Delivered a high-quality weld finish with less operator fatigue
The Bottom Line: Repeatable quality. Easier troubleshooting. One partner for design, support, and service.
THE CHALLENGE
Before automation, Starland Metals relied heavily on manual welding. While their team was skilled, the strain on operators and the pressure to increase output were mounting. Like many small job shops, they didn’t have the luxury of a large capital outlay or an in-house automation engineer.
They needed a partner who understood weld quality, operator safety, and the day-to-day pressures of running a growing shop.
“CLOOS was very helpful, even when we bought a used system… They were a one-stop shop with all the service stuff, the machine, the welder, the robot – everything.”
-Colin and Jadon Decker, Starland Metals
THE SOLUTION
Even before they were a customer, CLOOS helped. The Deckers bought their first CLOOS system used, and still received guidance on setup, programming, and maintenance.
That early trust paid off. As the Deckers scaled their business, they chose to standardize on CLOOS for every system that followed.
– A system architecture that’s scalable and serviceable without redesign
Increased Productivity:
Automation allowed Starland Metals to double their output, without expanding their labor force.
Skilled Labor Retention:
By improving work conditions and reducing manual strain, CLOOS helped lower welder turnover.
Responsive Support:
From setup to service, CLOOS responds fast—often within the hour. That keeps downtime short and productivity high.
Let’s Talk Shop
Get in touch with one of our product specialists. We’ll walk you through the options, answer your questions straight, and help you choose the welding automation that fits your shop – and your goals.
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