4 Steps of Custom Metal Fabrication

Custom metal fabrication is the process of taking raw materials and cutting, welding, molding, and assembling them into a final, functional product. Metal fabrication is overwhelmingly present in our lives—you can find products of fabrication in every room of your house, for example. However, although it’s a common need for life’s most necessary products, many are unsure why they need a metal fabrication service and what the process entails.

When considering a metalwork project, here is what you can expect from your local metal fabrication service.

When You Need a Metal Fabrication Service

Every metal product that you come in contact with during your day has been fabricated. This means, whatever the need—business, residential, industrial, personal—a metal fabricator can help you make your plan a reality. From a commercial roofing project to a sign for your business, your local fabrication service can create a custom product to fit your specifications. Keep in mind also that working directly with a fabrication shop, rather than through a more specific service (e.g., a commercial sign company), could streamline your project and cut costs, as you would be removing a middleman.

Here are a few more examples of products produced by metal fabrication:

• Roof flashings
• Wall flashings
• Ornamental metalwork
• Custom architectural features
• Spires
• Finials
• Weathervanes
• Cornices
• Gutters
• Column covers
• Metal logos and signs
• HVAC curbs and adapters
• Industrial products (hoppers, containers, safety guards, etc.)

4 Steps of Custom Metal Fabrication

1. Design—The metal fabrication process begins with design. This step is arguably the most important because it gives you and the fabricator a chance to thoroughly discuss your project and map out a plan. If you already have a design in mind, you can begin with your own CAD plans or blueprints.

Once the design is clear, the fabricator will identify the materials needed. Common types of metals used in the fabrication process are aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and pre-finished and galvanized steel. They will then finalize the design and provide you with a timeline. This step in the process is also an opportunity for the fabricator to ask a few questions and ensure that the plan is sound and aligns with your goals.

2. Fabrication—Next, the fabrication process begins, as the team uses the design to cut and shape the pieces needed for the final product. Metal fabrication involves a variety of techniques, including cutting, welding, bending, and machining. Your product type and materials used will determine the specific techniques necessary to fabricate your project. 


3. Assembly—The newly-fabricated pieces will be assembled to create your final product. This phase in the process is the moment of truth—quality assurance. If the assembled product meets the fabricator’s expectations and the customer’s goal, it will move on to the finishing step. 


4. Finishing—Once the product has been assembled, it goes through a finishing process that prepares it for the final delivery. This phase includes adding protective layers and finishing treatments to improve the product’s durability, look, and function. The finished product will then go on to the customer.

Ready to get started? Contact Formwell Industries today to learn more about the metal fabrication process and how we can bring your metalwork plans to life.