How Niagara Produces Aerospace Grade Specialty Steel with Precision

Built for the Skies

Producing parts for aircraft and defense systems demands materials that can withstand pressure, stress, and extreme environments. That’s why manufacturers count on aerospace grade specialty steel, metals engineered for high performance and reliability.

At Niagara Specialty Metals, making that kind of steel isn’t just about equipment. It’s about people, experience, and attention to detail. Located in Western New York, this 100% employee-owned company takes pride in every inch of steel it processes.

From Thick Slab to Finished Sheet

The process starts with large steel blocks, some weighing over 1,700 pounds and measuring several inches thick. Niagara cuts those blocks into smaller pieces and begins hot rolling them using powerful mills and expert handling. As the steel is rolled thinner, it’s reheated and shaped through multiple passes to reach the desired gauge.

After rolling, the steel undergoes an annealing process. Several of our furnaces are AMS 2750 certified for the Aerospace industry. This step is crucial to remove stress and make the steel easier to handle.

From there, the material is cleaned, flattened using high-precision levelers, and cut into final sizes using band saws, lasers, or waterjets. Every step is done in-house, allowing Niagara to keep tight control over quality.

Aerospace Alloys That Are Tough to Handle

Not all metals are created equal. Some of the alloys used in aerospace grade specialty steel, including titanium and high-strength stainless, are difficult to process. They can be brittle, hard to flatten, or tough to cut.

Niagara has developed processes and tools to handle these challenges. Their shop includes advanced Blanchard grinders, flattening presses, and high-powered saws that allow them to work with even the most demanding alloys. Whether it’s a single sheet or a high-volume order, they take the same care with every job.

A Team That Knows Their Craft

What truly sets Niagara apart is their people. President Bob Shabala began on the shop floor and worked his way up. He shared on The Josh Smith Show that most employees stay for decades. That long-term experience means the team understands the materials, the machines, and the mission.

Training takes three to five years, and the employee-owned model encourages everyone to take pride in the work. With a profit-sharing system and shared ownership, each person has a stake in the quality that goes out the door.

Aerospace Grade Specialty Steel That Goes the Distance

If you’re producing aerospace components that need strength, precision, and consistency, you need partners who know the steel and the stakes. Niagara Specialty Metals is proud to deliver aerospace grade specialty steel that performs where it matters most.