Metal fabrication companies may be eligible for R&D tax credits for performing qualified research activities. For example, the following activities may be eligible for R&D tax credits:
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Performing technical research on alternative metals and chemical compounds to improve product(s) or reduce waste
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Performing technical research on dimensional stability issues (e.g. planar anisotropy)
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Performing technical research into sheet metal thickness, tension and stretching
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Developing new and/or improved welding procedures or processes
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Developing new and/or improved cutting system(s) to enhance product consistency, reliability, or output
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Designing new and/or improved processes to improve metal characteristics
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Designing, developing, and/or testing cost-effective operational processes
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Designing, developing, and/or testing product prototypes (e.g. die-cut tooling)
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Designing and developing cost-effective operational processes
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Designing new and/or improved specialty tools or jigs
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Designing new and/or improved process or procedures to meet unique client specifications
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Evaluating the integration of new materials, equipment, or machinery to improve or reduce costs of product(s) or manufacturing processes
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Testing of alternative materials and/or fabrication processes