About FlexArm
About FlexArm
FlexArm traces its origin to 1971, when Richard Kennedy launched Midwest Specialties, Inc. as a government contracting manufacturing business in Wapakoneta, Ohio. Kennedy designed and built a tapping arm to speed up threading operations, and as word of the design spread through the small town, the business evolved into FlexArm Inc., a dedicated manufacturer of ergonomic machine tool arms since 1984.
FlexArm built its specialty around tapping arms, assembly and articulating arms, torque arms, counterbalance arms, and lift-assist arms, products designed to reduce operator fatigue and improve precision on repetitive drilling, tapping, and assembly tasks. The company has operated as Flex Machine Tools for more than 50 years, continuing to design and build solutions tailored to specific production-line ergonomic challenges.
The product line has grown from its original tapping arm focus to include hundreds of machine tool variations, including vertical machining centers, waterjets, beam drill lines, and custom electromagnetic drill press solutions. Now in its third generation under Richard's grandson Nick Kennedy, FlexArm remains based in Wapakoneta, Ohio and continues to produce its original water can brackets alongside its expanded product range.
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Frequently asked questions
What was FlexArm's original product?
FlexArm's original product was a tapping arm designed by founder Richard Kennedy in 1971 to speed up threading operations, which became the foundation for the company when it was formally established as FlexArm Inc. in 1984. The tapping arm category remains central to the company's product line today.
Does FlexArm make electromagnetic drill press solutions?
Yes, FlexArm offers custom solutions for electromagnetic drill presses in addition to its tapping and assembly arm products. Tell us your drilling application and mounting surface and we'll confirm whether an electromagnetic solution fits.
What ergonomic arm products does FlexArm manufacture?
FlexArm manufactures tapping arms, assembly and articulating arms, torque arms, counterbalance arms, and lift-assist arms, all designed to reduce operator fatigue on repetitive tasks. Let us know your task type and reach distance and we'll match the right arm.
Is FlexArm still family-owned?
Yes, FlexArm is now in its third generation of family ownership, run by Nick Kennedy, grandson of founder Richard Kennedy. The company remains based in Wapakoneta, Ohio, where it started over 50 years ago.
Has FlexArm expanded beyond its original tapping arm products?
Yes, FlexArm's product range has grown to include vertical machining centers, waterjets, and beam drill lines in addition to its original tapping arm and ergonomic arm solutions. Tell us your machining need and we'll confirm which current product line applies.