How to find work for your machine

[CLSmachining]

I have been in the machining industry for cnc mills and lathes now for 6 years now and i am taking a shine to CNC plasma cutting! i would like to start a business around it but not sure what industries need suppliers. Other than posting what you can do on forums, sending brochures to larger manufacturers. what other techniques are there?
I have found websites like RFQ.com and MFG.com. Wanted some insight on how others do it.

a newbie looking for answers and i will appreciate everyones input!

[magma-joe]

CLSmachining,

I would decide who your target audience is. There are many areas plasma cutting is needed. Some examples are the sign industry, plasma art, furniture, machining industry, automotive aftermarket parts, repair, and general fabrication.

I have dabbled some in all areas however most of my work comes from custom auto parts. I would make some samples of your work in different types of material and show your potential customers what you can do.

Many people are unaware of what a CNC plasma can do and the speed it can do it. Once you plant the seed they will dream up work for you. For instance, a cnc machine shop might seem like an unlikely customer.

I have a customer that I cut large aluminum plate blanks for. When I deliver them they are ready to be bolted on his jig for finish CNC machining. My ability to nest parts saves material costs for him over shearing squares for his jig. My plasma is also much faster than his mill for non critical work.

Large signs can pay good money especially when you compare them to what a sign shop charges. As I said educating people as to what your machine can do will be the best advertising you can do.

Magma-joe