CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Flexible manufacturing line at Tarter.

Scaling production is one challenge. Keeping quality consistent while doing it is another. At Tarter, both came together in the move from manual welding to automation. A tailored robotic solution supports scalable gate and kennel production while maintaining strict quality standards across high-volume manufacturing.

Customer

Industry

Manufacturing

Application

Flexible manufacturing line

Product

Gates corrals, and dog kennels

Location

Dunnville, KY, USA

Scalable production

Increase output without adding labor

Consistent quality

Uniform welds and smooth finishes

Reliable up-time

Robots perform with minimal issues

About Tarter

Tarter is a U.S.-based manufacturer specializing in farm and ranch equipment, with expanding operations in pet, fencing, and lawn & garden products. The company produces a wide range of metal-based products, including gates, corrals, and dog kennels. Known for its focus on manufacturing innovation, Tarter continues to invest in technologies that support growth, product quality, and operational efficiency across multiple business lines.

The challenge

Manual welding processes limited production capacity and created dependency on skilled labor, which was increasingly difficult to source in rural regions. Variability in manual work also impacted product consistency. As demand fluctuated, scaling production required overtime or additional hiring, both of which introduced operational strain and limited responsiveness to market needs.

The solution

A customized robotic welding solution was introduced to automate gate and kennel production. Built in collaboration with AWL, the system was designed around Tarter’s production complexities. The solution combines precision welding with integrated material handling, leaving only the need to stock the machine with parts and removing finished products from the end of the line in stacks.

Robotic welding integration
Automated loading and unloading operations
In-line bending of metal tubes

Results

Robotic automation at Tarter reduced reliance on manual labor while increasing production flexibility. Tarter can now respond more quickly to changes in order volume without operational disruption. Product quality has improved through consistent welds and controlled processes, strengthening competitiveness in a market where many competitors still rely on manual methods. The system has also proven reliable, with minimal downtime and strong long-term performance.