Updated 15/10/2023
Steel is a versatile material that lends itself to many kinds of projects and is easy to customise. Steel has unique properties that make it the best choice across many industries, including building, infrastructure, and much more.
Are you searching for a custom steel fabricator? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we discuss what a custom steel fabricator is and how they can help you with your next project.
What Does a Custom Steel Fabricator Do?
Steel fabricators use different techniques to turn steel sections into predefined shapes ready for construction. Fabricators work with steel detailers and drafters, who create detailed drawings and designs that fabricators “bring to life.”
The work of steel fabricators requires a wide range of tools, techniques, an extensive knowledge of steel properties, and an eye for detail. Once steel products are finished, they arrive ready to install at the site. That means the steel fabricator must work with precision.
The Steel Fabrication Process
The steel fabrication process has evolved over the years since it was first done in the 17th century. The process has mainly seen such advances due to computer technology, which monitors and controls the machines used by steel fabricators, including routers, welders, and more. 3D modelling has also made the process easier, even when dealing with complex components.
Here’s a list of the most common techniques used by steel fabricators:
- Short blasting: blasts steel sections with tiny steel beads that remove impurities and prepare the metal for fabrication.
- Cutting: steel cutting involves cutting the steel sections into pieces before fabrication so they’re easier to work with. It can also mean cutting steel down in size to create customised steel projects.
- Bending: creates steel shapes and elements; the process can involve many tools and techniques.
- Welding: is the process of using high heat to melt material with whatever is being attached.
- Coating: steel may require coating for practical and aesthetic purposes. Coating stops or slows corrosion, adds custom colours, and more.
With this short background about steel fabricators, we’re ready to move on!
How to Know Whether You Need a Custom Steel Fabricator
It may not be evident that you need a custom steel fabricator. To make things easy, some people choose ready-made products for their metalwork. These may be OK for uncomplicated, generic projects, but sometimes they’re not the right choice.
If you need a specifically designed metal product, you need a custom steel fabricator. They will be able to help develop a design that’s right for your project. Custom steel fabricators work with a wide range of residential and commercial projects, including shipbuilding, mining, product manufacturers, and more. They also work directly with customers who would like customised steel for their residential projects.
Types of Custom Steel
Custom steel fabricators offer a broad range of products, including the following:
- Universal beams
- Universal columns
- Bar joists
- Platforms
- Ladders
- Pipe racks
- Frames
- Skids
- Steel stairs & balustrades
- Steel enclosures
- And other customised steel products
Reasons to Work with a Custom Steel Fabricator
There are several reasons to consider working with a custom steel fabricator, including the following.
Eliminates Wasted Time
Working with one fabricator rather than several companies eliminates problems such as delays and miscommunications. Wasted time means money lost and project delays.
On the other hand, working with a custom steel fabricator can mean better communication, plenty of space, a wide range of tools and technology, and more. They’re better able to meet your needs and ensure your project is completed on time.
Freedom of Design
Working with a custom steel fabricator also means you have more architectural freedom. Custom fabricators can create a wide range of steel product solutions to meet your needs. In addition, you can also obtain custom steel components.
A custom steel fabricator can bring your ideas to life.
More Advanced Methods
Working with a custom steel fabricator also means accessing more advanced methods. Steel fabricators have specialised equipment to create more advanced designs with their wide range of machinery and tools. How does this help you? You get the metal needed for your project and it meets your needs.
Normal fabrication is done with traditional methods, such as metal welding. However, the custom fabricator uses more advanced methods, such as waterjet cutting, which is done with highly precise tools.
Get Exactly What You Need or want
When you go to any steel shop, you may not be able to buy the precise metal parts you need. This could result in a delayed or ruined project.
However, with a custom steel fabricator, they specialise in customizable parts that allow you to get precisely what you need or want. These are experts in their field, and they have the ability to fabricate metal parts that are bespoke for your project.
It’s also possible to discuss your requirements with an expert. They may be able to offer advice and guidance on what you may need.
Work with Skilled Workers
Customised metal fabrication is a specialised industry, which means you will work with custom steel fabricators who are highly skilled experts in their field. The fabricators usually have years of experience, so they can easily help with any extra assistance your project requires.
And if you’re unsure about what metal is needed or the size of a metal part, the fabricator can help you with their knowledge and expertise.
Quality Materials & Products
Working with a custom steel fabricator also means your designs are made with quality materials. Some customised metals are made with alloys. These are resistant to temperature, corrosive chemicals, and high forces. The end result is that your design will be more durable and last longer.
Summing It Up
Working with a custom steel fabricator offers many benefits, including saving time and money when you get the right parts for your project.
And if you’re unsure whether your project needs it, a custom steel fabricator can help. They’re experts who can provide the right information on what the project requires and they can create a bespoke piece for your project.
FAQs
What makes custom steel fabrication different from standard steel production?
Custom steel fabrication is all about tailoring steel components to specific project requirements, whereas standard steel production creates generic, mass-produced items. The custom approach allows for unique designs and precise fits, making it ideal for specialized projects.
Is custom steel fabrication suitable for small-scale projects?
Absolutely! Custom steel fabrication is versatile and can be applied to projects of all sizes. Whether it’s a large-scale industrial project or a small, intricate design, custom fabricators can handle it with precision.
How can I ensure that my project stays within budget when working with a custom steel fabricator?
Custom steel fabricators work closely with clients to determine project needs and budget constraints. By collaborating on the project’s scope and materials, you can ensure that it remains within your budget.
Can custom steel fabricators work with non-steel materials?
While their specialisation is in steel, many custom fabricators have the expertise to work with other materials. If your project requires a combination of materials, it’s best to discuss this with your chosen fabricator.
How long does it typically take to complete a project with a custom steel fabricator?
The project timeline can vary based on the project’s complexity and size. However, custom steel fabricators are known for their efficiency and timeliness, ensuring your project is completed as quickly as possible without compromising quality.
What should I look for when selecting a custom steel fabricator for my project?
When choosing a custom steel fabricator, consider their experience, reputation, and portfolio of past projects. It’s also important to ensure that they can meet your specific project requirements.