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How Garford Farm Machinery cut manual work in securing AI electronics with Fibox

 

For an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) like Garford Farm Machinery, the environment is the ultimate test of quality. Their equipment operates in a world of vibration, dust, and moisture, but the real challenge often comes after the work is done. Agricultural machinery is routinely cleaned with high-pressure jet washes, a process that can easily destroy sensitive electronics if the enclosure is not up to the task. 

We spoke with Nathan Brown, Mechatronics Manager at Garford, about why they chose a partnership with Fibox and the use of the ALN aluminium enclosure series to safeguard one of their newest generations of technology. "I would always look at Fibox boxes first before looking anywhere else, because I know the product is good," Brown says. 

 

From standard enclosures to a fully integrated solution

 

Garford has used Fibox products for years, but the development of their Robocrop AI system brought an even higher need for precision, customisation, and a more streamlined manufacturing process. Robocrop AI uses cameras and AI to recognise individual plants, allowing the machine to remove weeds mechanically with high precision. At the centre of this system is an Electronic Control Module (ECM), which processes data and controls the machine in real time.

Their latest technology required a heavy-duty housing that was perfectly sized for the ECM, and they needed a more efficient way to handle the customisation of the units. Garford recognised that moving away from manual, in-house modifications would allow them to integrate the enclosure more effectively into their production line.

Project overview

 

Project: Fibox customisation services

Location: Garford Farm

Solution: Fibox ALN aluminium enclosures

Removing manual work and improving production efficiency

Instead of drilling and modifying each unit themselves, Garford now send design files directly to Fibox, who machine and prepare the enclosures to exact specifications. Garford receives fully finished components ready for installation.

This change has had a clear impact on their day-to-day operations. It reduces manual work, removes the risk of misalignment, and ensures consistency across every unit. For an OEM managing multiple configurations and ongoing product development, this level of precision and repeatability is essential.

"By having Fibox take over the customisation process, we no longer have to worry about drilling holes or ensuring everything lines up," Brown explains. "It allows us to focus entirely on building our own systems rather than spending time on secondary processes."
— Nathan Brown, Mechatronics Manager at Garford

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Built for vibration, contamination and high-pressure cleaning

While efficiency has increased, performance in the field remains just as important. Garford’s machines are exposed to constant vibration during transport and operate in environments filled with dust, moisture and debris. The robust aluminium construction and high IP rating of the Fibox ALN series provide the heavy-duty protection required to keep sensitive electronics safe in these conditions.

However the biggest challenge often comes during cleaning. Agricultural machinery is regularly washed using high-pressure water, which can expose weaknesses in enclosure design. Unlike standard flat seals, the Fibox design cups around the joint to create a more secure barrier that prevents water from being forced inside under pressure. "We have had no issues with water ingress at all, which is vital because electronics and water are obviously a very poor combination," Brown explains.

Support that extends beyond the physical product

Beyond the product itself, Garford values the way Fibox operates as a partner with good communication, clear lead times, and a responsive supply chain.

“Dealing with Fibox is really easy, their delivery times are quick, and they are very efficient," Brown says. “They've always looked after us. The product itself is second to none, really.”

With regular contact and updates, Garford does not have to deal with uncertainty around deliveries. This reliability supports their own production planning and reduces pressure on internal teams.

Looking for a more efficient way to protect your equipment?

If you are an OEM building for demanding environments, the right enclosure partner does more than just provide a box. By working with Fibox, you get the heavy-duty protection your electronics require, combined with predictable lead times and personal follow-up that removes the friction from your supply chain.

Whether you need fully customised, ready-to-install units or a more reliable way to manage your inventory, we help you streamline your production and focus on your core technology. Get in touch with us to see how we can support your next project.


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