Metal fabrication is a broad term for various techniques and processes that build or repair a component or other item. Welding is a type or category of metal fabrication. The two work together within a well-run shop to increase the shop’s profitability. When it comes to production, while some shops prefer to restrict their practices, those who combine welding and metal fabrication are capable of providing a broader range of services. This can increase their customer base and effectiveness.
Defining Metal Fabrication
Metal fabrication involves the construction or repair of a particular item or workpiece. It involves the use of various types of metal –frequently sheet metal. To achieve the required results and meet customer and industry specifications, a metal fabricator can utilize any of the following techniques using a variety of tools and methods.
* Metal Shaping: This involves forming or shaping the metal into the desired shape. Form bending using a metal brake or other device is one technique
* Metal Cutting: Work of this nature is done either manually or using specialized equipment. Shears are a common tool employed in this task. An angle grinder or plasma cutter ups the sophistication level over even power shears. Plasma cutters come in manual automatic and CNC controlled formats. Pipe beveling and cutting machinery is also common for certain fabrication shops
* Metal Shrinking: Heat shrinking and using a shrinker are two common ways of achieving this result
* Metal Stretching: Devices such as an English wheel or a stretcher can accomplish this
* Fusing or Joining Metal: Welding and metal fabrication meld in this task. Equipment and techniques employed from the older method of oxy acetylene welding to the more precise and professional TIG welding to the more common MIG welding
* Machining: Machining involves removing unwanted metal pieces for a part. It can be a finishing process. Some of the more common pieces of equipment are as horizontal and vertical machining (milling) centers
These comprise the basics methods and tools of a fabrication shop that includes welding as an integral component of its operation. Automation and CNC operated equipment currently play a strong role in a full-service and highly functional and flexible fabrication shop.
Welding and Metal Fabrication
Today’s manufacturing industries rely on various other shops to provide them with the components to complete a product or a contract with a larger manufacturer or client. Fabrication shops for the basis of a network where they act as jobbers or contract manufacturers for larger manufacturing concerns. For those shops that wish to cater to a broader audience or improve their shops capabilities, various options exist. One of the more common and versatile methods is to combine the skilled of welding and metal fabrication together.
