Business Details
16 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Automation & Mechanical Partner in Hastings, MI
Founded in 2010 by Robert D. Forbes, RDF Concepts brings over 28 years of industry expertise to deliver cutting-edge automation and mechanical solutions. Our mission is to enhance client competitiveness through customized control systems that improve quality and productivity. We specialize in turnkey projects, from concept to implementation, serving diverse industries including food & beverage, composites, environmental, and industrial applications. Our team of integrators, designers, and project managers collaborates with skilled tradesmen to deliver sustainable, state-of-the-art systems tailored to each client's unique needs. With a focus on innovation, we provide PLC/HMI programming, AutoCAD design, and advanced equipment installation.Our commitment to 24/7 customer support and nationwide service has earned us a reputation for reliability and technical excellence. Safety is paramount, with all team members certified in rigorous standards including OSHA10 and confined space operations. We distinguish ourselves through transparent project management, detailed scope adherence, and a client-centric approach that prioritizes long-term partnerships. From plant shutdowns to annual maintenance contracts, RDF Concepts ensures projects remain on time, on budget, and aligned with evolving industry demands.
Services
Automation Integration
Control Systems Design
Mechanical Installation
Project Management
Maintenance Services
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 customer support for urgent automation needs.
- Our team has 28+ years of combined industry experience.
- We provide tailored control systems for diverse industrial applications.
- We maintain OSHA10-certified safety standards across all projects.
- Our nationwide service network supports clients beyond Michigan.
Services
Automation Integration
We design and implement customized automation systems that streamline industrial processes. Our solutions combine PLC/HMI programming, real-time monitoring, and scalable controls to enhance operational efficiency. Clients benefit from reduced downtime, improved data accessibility, and seamless integration with existing infrastructure across food & beverage, composites, and energy sectors.
Control Systems Design
Our engineers create precision control systems using AutoCAD and industry-leading software. Services include electrical schematics, communication architecture, and panel layouts tailored to client specifications. We ensure compliance with safety standards while optimizing system longevity and adaptability for evolving industrial requirements.
Mechanical Installation
We handle complete mechanical installations, from foundations to heavy machinery rigging. Our OSHA-certified team specializes in crane services, millwright work, and precision equipment setup. Projects maintain strict safety protocols while meeting deadlines for operational readiness in manufacturing and processing facilities.
Project Management
Our project managers oversee every phase from scope development to final approval. We provide transparent cost reporting, weekly progress updates, and risk mitigation strategies. This structured approach ensures alignment with client goals while maintaining budget and schedule integrity for complex industrial projects.
Maintenance Services
We offer preventive and emergency maintenance programs to sustain system performance. Services include remote monitoring, component testing, and outage support. Our rapid-response teams minimize downtime through 24/7 availability and annual service contracts tailored to facility operational needs.
People
Robert D. Forbes
Owner / Systems Integrator
With 28+ years in automation, Robert founded RDF Concepts in 2010 to deliver innovative control systems. He oversees technical strategy and client partnerships, ensuring solutions enhance productivity while meeting industry standards.
Shelba J. Forbes
CAD Designer
Shelba manages CAD design operations, creating detailed schematics for automation systems. Her expertise in technical drawings ensures precision in electrical layouts and communication architecture for industrial clients.
Questions
What industries do RDF Concepts serve?
We specialize in food & beverage, composites/plastics, environmental, metal forming, agricultural, and industrial applications.
Do you offer nationwide service?
Yes, while based in Michigan, we provide automation and mechanical services across the United States.
What safety certifications do your teams hold?
Our staff maintains certifications in OSHA10, rigging, confined space operations, and CPR.
Can you handle both small and large-scale projects?
We manage projects ranging from individual machines to complete plant automation systems.
Is 24/7 support available?
Yes, we provide 24/7 customer service for emergency maintenance and system troubleshooting.