Industrial & Manufacturing Company
What is the difference between a standard metal fabrication and a custom fabricated solution? A full-service fabricator can answer in one word – value.
Every custom metal fabrication begins with research to assess the appropriate materials and methods to cost-effectively produce each unique fabrication design. From design to delivery, the custom metal fabrication process is designed to produce more durable, quality results that deliver long-term value, from small metal accessories to massive steel silos.
Here are just a few examples of custom fabrication techniques that produce quality fabrications with long-term value.
- Setting Design Intent
- Metal Cutting & Forming
- Custom Welding & Assembling
- Finishing to Add Value
The metal fabrication design is essential to reaching the desired outcome, which is added value. What is the purpose of the fabrication? Maybe it is an industrial solution to provide roof access for two oil tanks with multiple entry points? Or perhaps you have a unique bulk storage design that calls for multiple custom components, such as a fully-insulated skirt with ground access?
A full-service fabricator can take a standard industrial plan or an engineering drawing to flush out a detailed design that will deliver the desired results for even the most complex fabrication. This may require refining and testing the design per industry-specific requirements or regulations, and identifying all the required components to serve as the building blocks for the final project.
A full-service fabricator can take a standard industrial plan or an engineering drawing to flush out a detailed design that will deliver the desired results for even the most complex fabrication. This may require refining and testing the design per industry-specific requirements or regulations, and identifying all the required components to serve as the building blocks for the final project.
Before cutting begins, the metal fabricator must assess what type of method is appropriate for the metal type and thickness. Laser cutting works effectively for delicate metal fabrications or for heavy steel plates that require strict tolerances. Lasers are not ideal for metal composites or materials that have impurities, due to the risk of spray reactions or potential surface defects.
When the fabrication requires complex steel metal shapes, plasma machines with Computer Numeric Control (CNC) can provide exceptional precision. Plasma tables are often used for carving circular holes or complex shapes out of thick metal plates.
Sawing is more appropriate for structural steel projects that require large beams to serve as the backbone for the final fabrication. For cutting simple shapes, plate shears are the most cost-effective option, which are more appropriate for carbon steel ductwork or durable metal bins.
Forming the metal may require bending, plate and angle rolling, or punching. It is critical to select the right machinery to deliver the desired result.
Sawing is more appropriate for structural steel projects that require large beams to serve as the backbone for the final fabrication. For cutting simple shapes, plate shears are the most cost-effective option, which are more appropriate for carbon steel ductwork or durable metal bins.
Forming the metal may require bending, plate and angle rolling, or punching. It is critical to select the right machinery to deliver the desired result.
Custom welding and assembly techniques can ensure each metal fabrication meets specific industry standards. A custom fabricator with certified welders and a documented quality control program (QC) is more likely to meet the industry requirements that add value.
Before partnering with a metal fabricator, ask for documentation of welder certifications. These credentials should include:
All assemblies and subassemblies should be tested together to ensure the final fabrication project functions as intended. The entire assembly process should be photographed and documented as part of a structured QC program.
The fabrication components should be shipped in the most complete form possible, especially for carts or ladders. Larger fabrications should be shipped with large subassemblies that can be assembled quickly onsite. This custom assembly process can dramatically reduce project timelines and labor expense.
All assemblies and subassemblies should be tested together to ensure the final fabrication project functions as intended. The entire assembly process should be photographed and documented as part of a structured QC program.
The fabrication components should be shipped in the most complete form possible, especially for carts or ladders. Larger fabrications should be shipped with large subassemblies that can be assembled quickly onsite. This custom assembly process can dramatically reduce project timelines and labor expense.
From surface preparation to final finishing, we can extend the life of a custom metal fabrication for a tangible return on each project investment. From oil and gas tanks to feed and grain silos, our metal storage solutions can endure punishing outdoor conditions and protect the valuable content inside.
From design to delivery, McSwain Metal Fabrication offers finishing techniques like these and other fabrication services that reduce project labor costs and increase product ROI.
From design to delivery, McSwain Metal Fabrication offers finishing techniques like these and other fabrication services that reduce project labor costs and increase product ROI.