Steel fabrication is the process of converting raw steel to an end product/component ready for installation. It can range from a simple bracket all the way to structural steelwork for a building project. No two fabrication jobs are identical, though most fabricating work contains four broad steps: cutting, drilling and/or welding and finishing.
Cutting
Cutting is the process in which steel cuts and shapes to drawings. Depending on the work done, fabricators might utilise saws, shears or even plasma or laser cutting. Against that, accurate cutting is crucial because it governs everything else – if the parts are out by a couple of millimetres here and there then this can lead to delays (and additional cost) on site.
Drilling (and forming)
For bolts, fixings or other types of connections many steel components will require a hole. They are drilled to certain diameters where the pieces will line up in an assembly. Some projects will partially involve joining or bending steel to achieve angles, curves and folded sections.
Welding
Welding is a process of joining steel pieces, so they stick together to form strong seams. A quality fabricator will select an appropriate welding process for the substrate and application, then measure things like alignment, even balance and strength when forming. You see, clean welds are not just a matter of aesthetics – they’re to do with reliability. For a Fabrication Company Gloucester, visit https://www.mber.uk/steel-services/fabrication-gloucester
Finishing
Finishing takes care of the steel and adds a coat for aesthetic quality. Common options include:
Galvanising for outdoor corrosion resistance
Durable coloured finish in powder coating
In-expensive protection with priming and paint
If asking for a quote, ask what is included at each step. Transparency of specs from the beginning allows you to receive accurate pricing and a seamless installation.