Capital Machine Expands Its Industrial Automation Business
Capital Machine has acquired KC Robotics, an industrial robotic systems integrator based in West Chester, Ohio. The acquisition expands Capital Machine’s industrial automation capabilities and strengthens its position in engineered manufacturing systems. The companies have not disclosed the financial terms.This transaction marks Capital Machine’s first add-on acquisition since partnering with Rotunda Capital Partners in March 2025. Moreover, it supports a broader strategy to deliver complete automation solutions. Manufacturers can combine machinery, engineering, system integration, installation and ongoing technical support through one supplier.
KC Robotics Brings More Than 35 Years of Robotics Expertise
KC Robotics has over 35 years of experience designing and integrating custom robotic automation systems. The company serves manufacturers across North America with solutions for welding, cutting, finishing, material handling, machine tending, assembly and machine vision.Its in-house capabilities include engineering, fabrication and robot programming. In addition, KC Robotics holds integration credentials from major industrial automation suppliers, including FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa Motoman, KUKA, Fronius, ESAB and Miller. These capabilities support projects that require coordinated robotics, production equipment and application-specific engineering.
Integrated Automation Connects Machinery and Control Systems
Capital Machine distributes and services metal fabrication equipment, including press brakes, metal cutting machinery and robotic welding systems. The company operates showrooms in Tampa, Atlanta, Dallas, Indianapolis and Harrisburg. Its field service network also covers 22 states.By integrating KC Robotics, Capital Machine can address more stages of an automation project. Customers can work with one provider to define requirements, select equipment, engineer robotic cells and coordinate installation.This approach can reduce the coordination burden associated with separate equipment suppliers and system integrators. Furthermore, integrated projects can align robot programming, machine interfaces, production processes and operator requirements more effectively. PLC-based control systems may also form part of these projects, depending on each application's technical scope.
Capital Machine Targets Growing Factory Automation Needs
Manufacturers increasingly seek automation solutions that extend beyond individual machines. They need systems that support production efficiency, consistent processes and changing manufacturing requirements.Dan DeBickero, CEO of Capital Machine, highlighted this shift in customer demand. He explained that KC Robotics brings the engineering expertise needed to design and deliver complete automation systems. Meanwhile, Capital Machine contributes its equipment portfolio and aftermarket service capabilities.Together, the companies aim to provide a more coordinated route from equipment selection to automation implementation. As a result, manufacturers can access machinery, robotic integration and ongoing support through a broader service offering.
KC Robotics Retains Its Brand and Existing Team
KC Robotics will continue operating under its current name within Capital Machine. Kyle Carrier will remain in leadership, and customers can continue working with their existing engineering and project management teams.In addition, KC Robotics customers gain access to Capital Machine’s wider equipment range and aftermarket service network. This structure preserves established customer relationships while expanding the resources available for future projects.Kyle Carrier, CEO of KC Robotics, said the combination would help the company reach more manufacturers. He also emphasized the value of Capital Machine’s service network and broader business resources. Therefore, the acquisition combines KC Robotics’ specialist integration expertise with Capital Machine’s established machinery business.
What the Acquisition Means for Industrial Automation
Capital Machine has supplied and serviced metal fabrication machinery since 1984. Its portfolio includes press brakes, metal cutting equipment and robotic welding systems. The acquisition adds further engineering and robotic integration capabilities to this established business.For manufacturers, the combined offering could simplify the delivery of factory automation projects. However, the technical benefits will depend on each project's requirements, system design and implementation.The acquisition also reflects a wider industrial automation trend. Equipment suppliers increasingly combine machinery, robotics, control systems and lifecycle services to meet manufacturers' project needs. For facilities planning new production lines or upgrading existing equipment, integrated engineering support can help coordinate multiple technologies within one manufacturing environment.As industrial automation requirements continue to evolve, the combination positions Capital Machine and KC Robotics to pursue projects that require both fabrication equipment and custom robotic systems.
