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Want to create a new metal part? Why not try metal fabrication? Although standard ‘off-the-shelf’ products are often cheaper, they’re unlikely to meet your exact needs – and investing in a specialist fabrication service, such as that offered by Special Metals, is usually the best way to proceed.
What is metal fabrication?
Metal fabrication is the process of creating a metal part from raw refractory metal (e.g. molybdenum, niobium, tantalum, tungsten, zirconium, titanium). Rather than being assembled from ready-made components, the end product is created via the fabrication process itself. That’s why it’s known as a ‘value-added’ process – value is added to the part throughout the process. The process of sheet metal fabrication starts with a sheet of metal, approximately ¼ of an inch thick or less. In this form, it is highly pliable and can be manipulated into different shapes and sizes using the fabricator. This can be done using a range of metal fabrication techniques – such as cutting, bending, welding etc – and the exact methods employed will depend on the metal chosen and the desired end product.
What can be made using metal fabrication techniques?
Most metal parts can be made via a metal fabrication process. It’s often used for the mass production of metal products (e.g. screws, cans, cutlery). Most companies will offer a range of standard parts, such as metal bars, plates, rods, tubes, sheets, billets, crucibles and more. However, it’s also possible for custom metal parts to be made-to-order, in line with your specific needs.
How much does metal fabrication cost?
This depends on several factors, including:
- the type of refractory metal chosen
- the part’s exact specification
- the volume of parts ordered
It’s usually worth doing a little research into metal fabrication companies in your area. Finding someone who can fulfil all aspects of your order can help and staying local will cut down deliver charges. You should also choose a company with cutting-edge fabrication equipment. Not only does this ensure a high-quality product, but it can also streamline the process and reduce the final cost.
Who can help with metal fabrication?
Companies who specialise in metal fabrication are commonly known as fab shops – and one of the UK’s leading ‘fab shops’ is Special Metals. Their team have over 120 years’ experience in this industry and all products are made in-house at their state-of-the-art facility in Essex.
They offer a comprehensive metal fabrication service, with both standard and non-standard components available. These can be created from a diverse selection of refractory metals and, thanks to their commitment to quality, they are always finished to the highest possible standard.
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