What is Metal Fabrication?

custom sheet metal fabrication
May 9, 2024

The custom sheet metal fabrication process is the backbone of the necessities that we use every day. From vehicles to electronics, complete buildings to home appliances, custom metal fabrication is found in virtually every industry across the board. 

When it comes to manufacturing businesses, the best way to orchestrate  custom metal fabrication to complete the assembly of parts and products can be one of the more challenging aspects of ensuring smooth and profitable operations.  

Indeed, a business that wants to outsource its fabrication needs can do an online search for “metal fabrication near me” or “metal fabricators near me.” However, remember that not all metal fabrication service providers are a good fit. Some service providers may have limitations on the types of metal they can work with, some may not have the best tools for precise results, and some may have slow turnaround times that impede a business’ operations from the inside out.   

When it comes to custom metal fabrication (Philadelphia and all over the country), your best resource is a time-tested organization like Steelway Laser Cutting that has both decades of experience and the best tools, technicians, and facilities available to provide expert results for any metal fabrication projects that you require. 

In the meantime, it’s helpful to take a deeper dive into what custom sheet metal fabrication entails, the different processes that are used to accomplish metal fabrication, and how outsourcing your metal fabrication needs can boost your bottom line. 

More Information About Metal Fabrication  

Metal fabrication is essentially the creation of varying metal structures through the process of cutting, bending, welding, and assembling, which transforms a piece of sheet metal into any number of new applications. Arguably, metal cutting is the most common form of metal fabrication, as it is required for virtually every manufacturing project that turns a straightforward piece of sheet metal into a new part or product. 

How is Metal Fabrication Performed? 

There are many tools available for metal fabrication, especially when it comes to cutting sheet metal. When it comes to larger manufacturing projects or custom sheet metal fabrication, high-tech computer numerical control (CNC) plasma and laser cutting machines are arguably the best tools for the job. 

Cutting machines, like laser cutting machines, have advanced by miles over the past several decades, and today’s cutting machines rely on complete automation to form precise cuts that perfectly align with specifications again and again.  

The drawback to utilizing the best metal fabrication tools and processes available is the cost. Most businesses do not have the funds required to purchase expensive laser cutting machines (as well as build the necessary facilities for these hi-tech machines) and hire highly specialized technicians to oversee the operations. 

Maintenance is another costly issue when it comes to purchasing in-house laser cutting machines and other advanced metal cutting machines, as all the moving parts of this equipment can be highly expensive to maintain for a long duration of time. 

This is why manufacturing companies that need the best custom metal fabrication services often outsource their metal fabrication tasks to ensure the most optimal results. 

The Benefits of Outsourcing Your Custom Metal Fabrication Needs 

There are several advantages to partnering with a metal fabrication resource that uses the best technology possible to perform custom sheet metal projects. These benefits include the following. 

Enhances Precision  

The results are as perfect as possible when the best metal fabrication tools and expertise are utilized. Thanks to CNC and the automation of laser machines and other processes, every design can be perfectly replicated again and again, even if manufacturers require production runs of 1,000 units or more. 

Saves Time  

While it may seem like it would take longer to outsource metal fabrication projects due to shipping, this is rarely the case. Metal fabrication experts like Steelway Laser Cutting rely on automated processes and powerful laser cutters to mass-produce thousands of products or parts quickly. There are no interruptions due to malfunctioning equipment or human error. Additionally, the process can be completed as many times as necessary until the job is done. 

Saves Money  

A common misconception is that outsourcing metal fabrication is a costlier endeavor than performing custom metal fabrication in-house. However, this is not true when the best facilities and technologies are in play. For example, laser cutting machines eliminate waste as the laser simply vaporizes the material, and the detail and size of the cut are so minute and precise that more of the sheet metal can be used in every project. There are also no extra costs due to missteps or errors, and the end product comes out perfect time after time.  

Allows for Expansion, Growth, and Creative Freedom  

Traditional cutting machines can perform simple tasks and are easy to operate. However, more advanced metal fabrication technology has changed the game when it comes to what custom sheet metal fabrication can accomplish.  These metal fabrication technologies can work with tougher materials, perform the most minor cuts or other alterations, and handle the most intricate designs. As such, manufacturing companies have more freedom to improve and enhance their designs, setting their business apart from their competitors. 

Learn More About Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication  

Let Steelway Laser Cutting be your guide and your lifelong resource for better operations. 

Custom sheet metal fabrication can revolutionize your business and operations. However, you won’t know exactly how until you start a consultation and a discussion with an expert. 

The key to enlisting custom sheet metal fabrication to improve your business and your products is to identify your needs, how your needs may evolve in the future, and find the best partner to allow your ambitions to come to fruition. 

Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication with Steelway Laser Cutting  

 Steelway laser Cutting can help you achieve your goals for all your industrial projects.  

Connect with us today to start a conversation. Let’s discuss how you can enhance your operations and efficiency when you have a dedicated resource that is performing the heavy lifting. With an expert like Steelway Laser Cutting as your partner, you’ll be amazed at what new heights your manufacturing projects, processes, and operations can reach. 

Contact us today!