Tag: metal fabrication

High Precision Machining Methods Ensure High Quality Parts

Post author By Glenn Metalcraft
Post date October 8, 2022
No Comments on High Precision Machining Methods Ensure High Quality Parts

At its bare bones, machining removes excess raw material from a bar stock, typically metal. High-precision machining uses high-performance cutting tools combined with sophisticated software and engineering talent to achieve highly accurate levels of machining.

Modern tools with incredibly tight tolerances reach mind-blowing limits of design feature creation. The materials used in these precise machining processes allow engineers to produce parts that meet specifications and tolerances. These high tolerance levels make high-precision machining stand out from every other machining process.

Learn more about high-precision machining methods from Glenn Metalcraft. The company is a leader in the precision machining industry.

Their collection of modern tools uses the latest software, and the manufacturing atmosphere is regulated to enable the production of precise prototypes and production parts. Some high-tech machining methods include robotic welding, metal spinning, cutting, and other machining tools in their extreme heavy metal spinning processes.

Defining High Precision in Machining

High-precision machining is critical in developing most machines, equipment, and parts today. In principle and execution, the process must ensure machined parts meet specifications and fit precisely. The quality of the machined parts forms the core parts of the process – perhaps even more important than the speed and volume of production and costs.

Modern CNC technology in high-precision machining has significantly evolved over the past decade. The industrial engineering tools required to produce high-precision parts use advanced software and are produced using ultra-precise tools. These machines follow particular engineering blueprints made using computer-aided design or manufacturing (CAD or CAM) programs such as TurboCAD and AutoCAD.

The sophistication of modern-day CNC and other high-precision machining tools makes it easy to produce parts by feeding the machine with a ready-design blueprint. The blueprints are typically 3-dimensional diagrams or outlines of the tools, parts, or objects to be machined. In some cases, engineers can feed hand-drawn sketches and rough designs of precision parts directly into the machine and still produce exact details.

Tools Used in High-Precision Machining

There are various types of milling and cutting tools used in precision machining. These tools are designed and made to meet strict tolerance stress resistance requirements.

The most common tools used in precision machining today are:

Robotic welders
Lathes
Saws
Punching
Grinders
Waterjet cutting
Electrical discharge machines (EDMs)
Milling machines

Modern precision machining is done using a heavy CNC machine. CNC stands for computerized numerical control. As the name hints, this is a computerized manufacturing process that uses programmable software and code to control the movement of machining tools. It is because of the computerization of the process that modern precision machining can produce high-precision results.

Common Applications of High-Precision Machining?

The subtractive process of precision machining is used to create a wide range of items, products, and parts from different materials. Since the parts require strict tolerance ranges, there is no room for error. The components of small and large objects we rely on in our day-to-day lives are prototyped and produced through precise processes.

Products, parts, and components that need incredibly tight tolerances are the driving forces for precision machining. The process of precision engineering and machining ensures that only parts that meet the set manufacturing tolerances are produced.

CNC high-precision engineering is also used to repair tools and components that wear out over time. For instance, machine components with moveable parts may wear out and get loose over time. Engineers may use re-calibration, welding, and grooving processes to restore the parts to their original state.

Another common application of high-precision engineering is producing automated production lines and test fixtures. This application is more prevalent in the electronics, medical machine production, and automotive assembly industries.

Quality Inspections on High-Precision Machining Methods

The primary reason to choose CNC high-precision machining is that it ensures high productivity and fewer errors than traditional machining. However, despite the system’s reliability and processes, quality inspection is still a necessary part of the process. Engineers must carry out inspection and quality control at all stages of the machining process.

There are three quality inspection levels in the production process:

Checking machine tool accuracy – This includes optimizing the accuracy and centering of the machining tool. It also covers testing other tool parameters, such as the orientation of the axis and spindle.
Testing part or product size and position – This test also includes checking geometric and dimensional tolerances and may vary based on the requirements of the tool or application.
Monitoring and controlling the machining process to avoid errors – Many factors can influence the precision and accuracy of the machining process. Process monitoring must be carried out at every stage of the product lifecycle, from ideation and design to prototyping and mass production.

Note that quality control and inspection differ from quality assurance in machining. The latter refers to the efficiency of the quality inspection set by the company carrying out the machining process. Quality assurance often includes external non-machining factors such as related documents and product delivery.

What to do to Ensure Quality Precision Machining

Here are five critical things every engineer, designer, or company must do to ensure quality high-precision machining:

Choose the best precision machining tools for the job at hand
Use the right high-precision machining methods for the part
Set and maintain a quality assurance system at every stage of production
Establish tight tolerances in all operations from design to machining
Check the raw materials before beginning the machining process

Get the Highest Quality Parts

The rapid evolution of CNC high-precision machining technologies has empowered manufacturers to put higher precision requirements for their prototypes and products in place. In recent years, the machining industry has been developing faster, making it possible for anyone with design software to access high-precision machining wherever they are.

Are you interested in high-precision machining? Need a prototype or a full production run that would benefit from high-precision machining methods? If so, go to GleenMetalcraft.com to get the right answers from the experts.

Tags CNC machining, machining processes, machining with tight tolerances, metal fabrication

Welding

What Is a Weldment Fabrication?

Post author By Glenn Metalcraft
Post date June 28, 2022
No Comments on What Is a Weldment Fabrication?

Have you ever sought a one-stop metal fabrication shop that offers machining, heavy metal spinning, cutting, welding, fabrication, and finishing services but didn’t know where to look? You’re in the right place.

Among the wide-ranging metal manufacturing techniques and disciplines is a service referred to as weldment fabrication. Keep reading to find out:

What weldment fabrication is
Different metal fabrication processes
Various types of welding in metal manufacturing
List of industries that commonly use welding in their fabrication process

Contact Glenn Metalcraft if you need weldment fabrication services.

What Is Weldment Fabrication?

In metal production, welding is the process that applies heat to metal parts and then uses a filler to form a joint. Weldment fabrication is joining two or more metal pieces into one cohesive piece. Having an adequately tested design prototype helps determine the kind of weldment required.

The performance of a welded structure is tested by checking and correcting common faults, such as:

Improper metal fusion
Porosity in the weld metal
Undercutting on the base metal

Typical Metal Fabrication Processes

Raw metal passes through a few operations before the final product is client-ready. For example, before an automobile frame reaches the assembly plant, it typically goes through some, if not all, of the following metal fabrication processes:

Cutting freshly-made pieces of metal or pre-shaped bars into desired sections using such items as high-tech laser cutting machinery or plasma torches.
Folding sheet metal using a press brake or an auto-robotic bending machine that manipulates it into specific angles for the desired shape.
Welding is a process that uses heat application to join metals and separate pieces of sheets or panels.
Punching involves sandwiching sheet metal between a die and punch-through to create customized contour shapes or holes, sometimes using a process referred to as nibbling.
Shearing utilizes a blade controlled by a squaring arm to create precision cuts on metal materials like iron, steel, aluminum, copper, and bronze.
Stamping fabrication uses a die to form intricate shapes, images, or letters on a metal panel, as seen in coins.
Casting is where molten metal such as gold, silver, steel, or iron is poured into a pre-formed mold and allowed to solidify into a specified form.

Some fabrication facilities may offer specialized metal finishing services, including blackening, cladding, grinding, plating, and powder coating. They are often the last machining operations based on aesthetics.

Commonly Used Welding Methods in Metal Manufacturing

Welding involves a few moving parts to ensure the longevity, integrity, and aesthetics of a weldment centered on industry codes and standards. Depending on the project, some welding facilities apply high-tech lasers, electromagnets, and microwaves. They may also use a simple torch or forge method.

Although there are numerous welding methods, the four most common include:

MIG Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) – utilizes an electric arc to heat metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper to their melting point to form a permanent bond. MIG welding is employed in automobiles’ manufacture, repair, and maintenance.
TIG Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) – uses a consumable tungsten electrode, a rigid metal material that doesn’t burn off or dissolve. Because welding TIG also utilizes helium or argon as an external gas supply, it’s primarily applied in the aerospace and automobile industries.
Stick Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) – uses a protected welding electrode covered with a thick coating of flux that burns while creating a protective cover between metal pieces. Stick welding is ideal for creating hard surfaces on farm equipment.
Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) – combines a base metal power supply and a continuous hollow flux-filled electrode fed through a welding gun into a weld pool. Given that this type of welding provides exceptional penetration, it’s applied in industrial machining to thick weld steel.

Industries That Commonly Use Welding in Their Fabrication Process

Below is a list of industries that rely on welding for their fabrication process:

The automotive industry turns to MIG welding to manufacture, assemble, and repair all types of vehicles.
Aerospace depends on laser MIG, plasma arc, or electronic welding for manufacturing aircraft and performing precision work during the repair and maintenance of all flying crafts.
Infrastructure and construction use plasma arc, shielded, and flux-cored welding for building roads and bridges, including commercial and residential properties.
The shipping and railroad industry employs electric arc, gas pressure, and thermite welding processes in constructing, repairing, and maintaining cruise liners, ships, railroad tracks, etc.
Manufacturing is another industry that utilizes MIG as a standard welding process to produce computer components, furniture, mining machinery, and agricultural tools.

Final Thoughts

With raw material versatility and the assurance of strength and permanence, welding provides numerous benefits that outweigh other methods for joining or fastening disparate elements.

As you search for metal services minus the inflated costs of doing business with several establishments, consider a one-stop shop like Glenn Metalcraft. We are a full-service shop where you can leverage multiple metal manufacturing solutions under one roof to ensure precision, high quality, and value at competitive rates.

Contact our expert team to ensure your fabrication and welding project is completed according to your standards and specifications.

Tags metal cutting, metal fabrication, metal finishing

CNC Machining

How to Overcome Precision CNC Machining Challenges

Post author By Glenn Metalcraft
Post date February 7, 2022
No Comments on How to Overcome Precision CNC Machining Challenges

At Glenn Metalcraft Inc, we take pride in serving the OEM industry under the direction of our parent company, Elemet Group. We have the privilege of working alongside other companies in the Group that specialize in a variety of manufacturing processes, including precision CNC machining.

Glenn Metalcraft is unique. We are one of the only companies well-versed in precision CNC spinning. The acronym CNC stands for computer numerical control, a method for automating control of machine tools through microcomputer software located in the tool.

Precision CNC spinning is an extremely effective and accurate way to approach metal fabrication projects. As with any approach, CNC spinning presents challenges. However, these challenges are also solvable. We have composed a list of possible challenges and remedies that you may face when utilizing CNC machining.

If you have a project in mind and want to take advantage of our efficient and accurate technique, fill out an estimate request now for a free consultation.

5 Common Challenges of Precision CNC Machining

The most common issues with machined parts arise with improper maintenance and usage. Below are 5 of the most common errors you may encounter when using CNC machinery.

1. Applying Wrong Settings and Tools

Using an inappropriate cutting tool or setting will present challenges and errors. If the cutting tool is not sharp and there is not an appropriate cutting coolant used, a poor surface finish will result. Additionally, this causes a cutter mark on your material and unnecessary wear on your tool.

Damages occur when the machine settings are wrong. When the feed rate is too high, rough edges and marks appear on your piece. Setting the feed rate too low will burn your workpiece. Wrong settings may even burn your tools.

2. Machine Vibrating and Chattering

CNC Machine vibration and chatter are related to tools and settings. If your CNC machine is vibrating or chattering, something needs changing. When the issue goes unfixed, tools will lose durability, the accuracy of dimensions will be affected, and the quality of the workpiece will diminish.

3. Choosing Inappropriate Raw Material

The material chosen for your project is an important factor. Some machinists will have an easier time working with certain metals. Moreover, some materials require certain strengths when used for specific functions.

Each metal responds differently to CNC machining. Some metals need extra steps to produce high-quality products, such as deburring. Note how CNC machining affects different metals and parts.

If you do not take time to consider what metals are best for your project, you may face avoidable issues had you used a different type of material.

4. Processing and Programming Data

CNC machining relies on software. This software can easily affect a machine’s performance. Sometimes, issues may arise when the computer software is not productively communicating with the device. For example, the software may dictate machine instructions too slowly.

CNC machines are programmed and have a programming language. Lack of knowledge of coding and programming data will lead to errors in production and problems with the machines.

5. Purchasing and Repairing CNC Machines

CNC machines are expensive and require a hefty investment. CNC machine repairs are also costly. The machines are notoriously complex and require specific mechanical and programming knowledge to repair. The knowledge required takes years to develop and does not come easily.

Remedies for Common Precision CNC Machining Challenges

Fortunately, each challenge has a corresponding remedy. Most of the solutions require educating yourself on how CNC machinery works. Knowledge will allow you to take preventive measures to avoid precision CNC spinning errors.

Deal with Setting and Tools

Setting and Tool issues are relatively easy to fix. Consider the following solutions:

Examine the material and decide what tool and setting is appropriate
If a tool is blunt, replace the tool with a sharpened tool
Examine the tool type and adjust the settings accordingly

Listen for Chatter and Vibration

When these noises appear, something is wrong. Check these areas if you notice chattering or vibrating:

Adjust the RPM
Use tool holders that are balanced
Check if there is enough lubricant
Look at CNC machine part positioning
Check hydraulic pump and pressure

Know the Correct Material to Use

Knowing your metals will help you avoid issues linked to the material. To avoid issues:

Know what material you and your staff can machine well
Know the project
Consider what material will be most efficient based on part function

Address Process and Program Issues

Processing and programming pitfalls are not easy for new operators to address. An experienced operator that knows coding is best at fixing data issues. However, there are some steps you can take yourself:

Make sure the machine is aligned mechanically
Try turning off the machine and reboot
Technical upgrades
Invest in programming training

The most beneficial fix for an ineffective CNC machine is to upgrade hardware and computer software.

Take Preventive Measures to Reduce Repairs

Upfront, CNC machinery is expensive. Small companies may struggle to adjust to the costs of CNC machinery. In the long run, investing in CNC machining will yield profit.

Repairs are costly and require expertise. To reduce the cost of repairs, make sure you are proactive. Follow these suggestions:

Invest in preventive machine maintenance programs
Make sure technicians know how to operate CNC equipment correctly
Regularly check hardware and software
Clean and perform regular maintenance on the machine, often
Check airflow and lube levels

CNC Machining Solutions

There are many challenges presented when operating CNC machinery. However, understanding possible difficulties will help you fix them.

It is feasible to operate precision CNC spinning smoothly. The right information and materials are needed. If you are interested in an in-depth review of the benefits of CNC machines, check out this article.

To keep away from CNC machinery complications altogether, hire Glenn Metalcraft Inc for your precision CNC spinning needs. Our staff are adept at addressing issues that arise while operating CNC machines. Our highly skilled team is dedicated to fulfilling project needs and providing excellent customer service. Reach out to Glenn Metalcraft today!

Tags CNC machines, metal fabrication, reduce CNC repairs, tool settings, vibrating and chattering

Subtractive Manufacturing

INTRO TO SUBTRACTIVE MANUFACTURING

Post author By Glenn Metalcraft
Post date May 24, 2021
No Comments on INTRO TO SUBTRACTIVE MANUFACTURING

Subtractive manufacturing can be performed manually by a machinist. More commonly it’s a highly complex process used by a CNC machine.

It is a decades-old practice with a demonstrated history of effectiveness in the prototyping process and manufacturing products. The goal for your project will determine if it is the correct process for your needs.

Subtractive manufacturing is like the process an artist uses to create a sculpture. The machinist or CNC programmer, like the artist, uses specialized tools to carve metal materials into the desired shape.

The different techniques used by the craftsman or artist create the specific details requested by the client.

If you want to understand subtractive manufacturing further and whether it aligns with your needs, consider Glenn Metalcraft Inc. They are an industry leader with a customer service focus.

What is subtractive manufacturing?

Subtractive manufacturing is aptly named since it involves removing or subtracting materials to produce the end product. One method of implementing subtractive manufacturing utilizes a computer numerically controlled or CNC machine.

The process begins with a rough slab or bar of material. Then, a machinist removes the excess until it reaches the final shape of the prototype or product being manufactured. You can imagine it like a sculpture. Your piece begins as a rough block but takes on a more complex shape through detailed carving.

Subtractive manufacturing can be further broken down by the machines and manufacturing technologies used.

Conventional machining uses three-axis cutting tools so that the block does not need to be manually flipped or turned. Conventional lathes, milling machines, and drill presses produce basic geometric designs.

Unconventional machining is ideal for working with brittle materials or producing more intricate and complex shapes. It uses a variety of processes to remove excess materials. This method can use a combination of mechanical, electric, thermal, or chemical methods to fashion the block into the desired shape.

What is the difference between additive and subtractive manufacturing?

The difference between additive and subtractive manufacturing is stated within their names. One method adds material; the other method subtracts material.

Additive manufacturing involves adding material to create the desired part. Adding layers to the workpiece forms the designated object.

Like a CNC machine, a 3D printer is programmed to create a 3d printed piece. The printer then builds up the shape from raw materials. Specific industries that utilize additive manufacturing include the medical and dental device industries.

Subtractive manufacturing involves removing material from solid blocks to fashion the desired shape. Manufacturers can use it with many different metals, such as aluminum and brass. A machinist or CNC machine system will remove metal using drilling, milling, or turning. The process will clear away segment by segment until the result is your product or prototype.

However, the two processes are not mutually exclusive. On the contrary, many manufacturers use both together to take advantage of each process’s unique advantages.

Advantages of subtractive manufacturing

There are many advantages of subtractive manufacturing, so it has remained a popular production method after decades of use.

Subtractive manufacturing usually results in much smoother surface finishes than the “stepped” surface, which results from using an additive manufacturing process.

Why does the type of finish matter? If your product needs to slide, you will want the smooth finish that subtractive manufacturing provides.

The texture matters if you use your prototype in your sales and marketing process. Your customers will be more likely to believe that your product is the right fit if it has the right feel.

Computer numerically controlled systems are commonly utilized in the subtractive manufacturing process. First, the CNC software reads the design provided and instructs the CNC machine on creating the product. It then prescribes how to cut, drill, and channel your components.

This level of automation means that larger-scale production can be handled with greater ease and less human involvement.

The tools used in subtractive manufacturing are exact and can create intricate or tight geometric designs. These types of complex shapes may be otherwise difficult to mold or cast.

Subtractive manufacturing techniques

Many subtractive manufacturing techniques are used. However, the main approaches can be divided into three broad categories. Those are:

Cutting,
Machining, and
Abrading.

Cutting involves using saws, blades, or other such tools to remove excess material.

Machining is when tools move around or across the raw material to shape it. CNC machining involves turning, milling, or drilling the item.

Finally, abrading is when the raw material is sanded down or polished using an abrasive substance.

The type of process used is dependent on the type of material used. A manufacturer needs a deep knowledge of metals to apply those processes to create the right design effectively.

Subtractive manufacturing examples

Manufacturers can apply subtractive manufacturing in various industries, including medical, dental, automotive, aerospace, and agriculture.

From gears in an airplane engine to garden tools, subtractive manufacturing can produce many products. This manufacturing technique can even make jewelry! Glenn Metalcraft Inc. uses its decades of industry experience to create items that might otherwise seem impossible!

Subtractive manufacturing has earned its place as an effective fabrication process in most machine shops. Its long history has improved by adding automation and software to allow many additional applications. Moreover, its unique properties mean it can create tight geometric shapes with a smooth and polished finish.

Hybrid Manufacturing, the Future of Subtractive Manufacturing

For a long time, subtractive manufacturing has been the go-to for detail and finish work because it’s simply the best method. But today, additive manufacturing gives us new shapes and structures possibilities.

The best of both worlds – additive and subtractive techniques combined on the same machine. This is what we call hybrid manufacturing. With this method, you can create a new part from scratch with 3D printing and then use CNC methods to finish it.

With this technology, you can switch between methods as you please. For instance, start by 3D printing a layer of material, then use subtractive machining on it, and add another layer afterward.

Why Glenn Metalcrafts Inc.?

Glenn Metalcrafts Inc. specializes in assisting the OEM industry in creating prototypes and manufacturing the products that build your success. Our company brings to the table decades of experience, advanced equipment, and the advice of metal industry experts. We manufacture products others would not even consider.

Glenn Metalcrafts Inc. builds solid relationships and grows alongside its customers. It is selective in its clientele to achieve the right fit. Reach out today to find out how Glenn Metalcrafts Inc. can make your manufacturing idea a reality.

Tags CNC machine system, metal fabrication, subtractive manufacturing

Welding

The Differences Between Welding And Metal Fabrication

Post author By Glenn Metalcraft
Post date February 15, 2021
No Comments on The Differences Between Welding And Metal Fabrication

From the cars we drive to the tall buildings we work at all day to the industrial plants that produce everything we use, today’s society owes its infrastructure to metal’s strength and durability. Extreme amounts of heat and pressure and skilled labor give the metal its final form. Two of the most crucial metalworking processes are welding and metal fabrication. Many people don’t understand the distinctions between these two processes. Let’s delve into some of the differences between welding and metal fabrication in today’s blog.

In the meantime, if you have a metalworking project that you need help with, contact us. Glenn Metalcraft’s customer relationships are as solid as the metals we work with, forged on quality service for the highest quality parts.

GMI is an extension of each of our customers. We strive to grow in the right direction, so we are prudent about the work we accept and aim to achieve a good fit above everything.

Welding, Defined

Welding is the process of joining pieces of metal together using fusion. These material pieces must have similar melting points for the welding to be successful at holding them together.

Welders often work with hot metal, specialty tools, and heavy machinery. Therefore, it’s imperative to be trained in proper safety guidelines and use the correct safety equipment to prevent injuring themselves or others.

Welders should always have access to:

an auto-darkening welding helmet
coveralls or a leather apron
flame-resistant clothing
hearing protection
heavy work boots
safety goggles
welding gloves
and often a method for fume extraction equipment.

Workers must understand the importance of safety equipment, meaning the shop should have safety policies defined and communicated to their welders. Both the provision of equipment and the proper training in safety expectations are necessary for a metal fabrication shop to have a thriving safety culture and environment. This safety culture is part of the shop’s overall program of quality control.

Welding involves the fusing of two (or more) pieces of metal. Numerous welding techniques exist, and each has its particular strengths and weaknesses.

Standard welding techniques include:

Shielded metal arc welding.
Gas metal arc welding.
Gas tungsten arc welding.
Flux core arc welding.

All welding techniques have the same goal: to permanently bond metal pieces together.

Metal Fabrication, Explained

Metal fabrication is the process of bringing together metal parts and assembling, or fabricating, something out of the elements. Usually, the process creates metal structures, machines, buildings, or other components.

Metal fabrication is the entire process of creating metal parts, from beginning to end. In comparison, welding is only one part of the fabrication process, which involves using heat to join two metal pieces.

Metal gives structural strength and efficiency. For instance, metal is strong and extends the life of structures. However, despite its strength, it can be manipulated to take on a new shape. Besides, due to its strength, it is incredibly cost-efficient. Metal fabricators can replicate the procedure to create a product, which brings down the cost per unit.

Also, metal is cost-efficient for the owners. Buildings or structures that utilize the fabrication process have a lower risk of fire damage, peeling paint, and even attract fewer pests. Best of all, its resistance to damage means there are lower insurance rates.

Processes Used In Metal Fabrication

Casting. The casting process occurs when molten metal is poured into a mold and is left to solidify into a specific form. Casting is one of the most flexible metal fabrication methods. It’s ideal for a wide range of complex shape-making. The most common materials used in casting include copper, gold, iron, magnesium, silver, and steel.
Cutting. Perhaps the most common metal fabrication processes involve cutting, where sheets split into halves, thirds, or smaller. Welders perform cutting on a range of machines, from lasers and plasma torches to elaborate high-tech machinery pieces.
Folding. One of the more complicated metal fabrication processes involves folding, where a metal surface is manipulated to shape at a certain angle.
Machining. When a machine removes portions from a metal piece, the process is known as machining. The method uses a lathe, which will rotate the metal piece against tools that trim corners and edges, cutting the section down to a desired shape or measurement.
Punching. When holes are formed in metal, the process involved consists of punching. Punching is when a metal piece is placed under a die and submitted to a drill “punch-through.” For the punched hole to be the correct size, the drill’s circumference must be accurate.
Shearing. For long cuts, the process is known as shearing. Shearing can be done horizontally, vertically, or by lowering the blade like a paper cutter. Shearing is used to trim down the edge of sheet metal, but the shearing process may be done anywhere on the metal piece.
Stamping. The metal fabrication process of stamping creates specific shapes, letters, or images within a metal piece. In effect, metal stamping is similar to a relief carving in wood or marble. Coins are a primary example of metal stamping: with words, currency amounts, and presidents’ faces stamped on each side on pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters.
Welding. Welding is easily one of the most popular metal fabrication processes among enthusiasts, along with cutting.

Additional metal fabrication processes include broaching, grinding, honing, and milling. Depending on the needs of a particular metal fabrication application, some metal facilities even perform specially customized fabrication types.

Differences Between Welding And Metal Fabrication

Welding is a metal forming technique necessary in many metal fabrication applications to complete work on a specific part or project.

Not all metal fabrication involves welding, but good welders are essential for a successful metal fabrication business to operate to its greatest potential.

Both welding and metal fabrication uses similar processes like assembling and bending. Many welders can fabricate, and many fabricators can also weld.

Metal Fabrication Encompasses Many Different Techniques

Metal fabrication encompasses the creation of a metal product from beginning to end. It involves everything from layout and design to shaping and finishing. In contrast, welding is simply one activity during metal fabrication.

As we stated above, all welding techniques have the same goal: to permanently bond metal pieces together. Metal fabrication, by comparison, encompasses many different metalworking strategies — welding included.

Welding and Metal Fabrication Use Different Tools

There are various tools used during welding and metal fabrication. Typically, professional welders need equipment such as abrasives, chipping hammers, electrode holders, soapstone, vice grips, vices, and welding clamps.

Metal fabricators, by trade, concern themselves with metal cutting, machining, or bending.

Fabricators accomplish this task using various cutting machines. A fabricator uses a lathe to remove portions of the metal. They can also create holes through which bolts will be able to pass. Bending machines then add necessary angles to the metal piece.

Welding utilizes a diverse toolset, including welding clamps, torches, power sources, and consumable electrodes.

Welding and Metal Fabrication Require Different Skills

Metal fabrication uses various metalworking processes — welding included — to create the structures and components necessary for the modern world to exist.

Most fabrication tools have a tabletop nature. Fabricators place the metal on the relevant device and then carefully manipulate the tool to accomplish the desired task.

On the other hand, welding has a vastly different strategy. While some welders do require stationary tools, welders mainly perform the welding process itself by hand.

While some metal fabricators also possess welding ability, the welding process’s complexity often requires more specialized practitioners. Without intense practice, a welder wouldn’t be able to create strong, neat welds. When creating high-performance metal products, only a welder with experience can operate with the necessary degree of skill and precision.

Why Trust Your Metal Manufacturing To Glenn Metalcraft?

Glenn Metalcraft’s customer relationships are as solid as the metals we work with, forged on quality service for the highest quality parts.

GMI is an extension of each of our customers. We strive to grow in the right direction, so we are prudent about the work we accept and aim to achieve a good fit above everything. Contact us about your project today.

Tags metal fabrication, welding

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