Author: @deliverfem

As UK-based specialists in bespoke steel fabrication, the FEM team answers in this blog the most frequently asked questions about how important precision is in the manufacturing industry (especially steel fabrication), and what precision steel fabrication involves.

What is steel fabrication?

 A simple definition of steel fabrication is the use of different processes – including cutting, bending and assembling – to create metal structures. Steel fabrication is essentially transforming steel into a specific shape.

The material’s hardiness is why it is so regularly used for components.

What do we mean by “precision” in steel fabrication?

 Precision steel fabrication uses advanced and highly skilled processes and techniques – including forming, welding, punching and cutting – to manufacture high-precision parts for a multitude of uses. The steel will then be used in the manufacture, assembly or construction of a final product; the precision technique allowing for identical steel parts to be made.

The use of precision machinery in structural steel fabrication ensures the product is formed with extreme accuracy, to precise details and forming exact duplicates.

As a bespoke steel fabrication technique, precision machining is growing as demand for its application increases.

What is precision steel fabrication used for?

When people think of precision steel fabrication, their thoughts almost certainly turn to the aerospace and automobile industries, or in the production of medical equipment.

But precision techniques have a huge influence on other uses for tailor-made steel parts too. From household electronics to home construction, there is precision metal fabrication being utilised across so many industries. Advances in technology means that list is only growing.

Take a look at FEM’s case studies for our recent examples of structural steel fabrication and bespoke steel fabrication.

Why is it important?

 New technology has transformed the way manufacturers form steel parts, with precision being one of the most important outcomes.

Today, the global machining market is predominantly made up of precision machining.

Why? Well aside from the obvious advantages of being able to create something entirely bespoke and made for purpose that can be reproduced exactly… it also saves time, saves on waste, improves quality and puts businesses at a competitive advantage.

What does precision steel fabrication involve?

Precision steel fabrication is achieved through the use of specialist technologies, including, but not limited to, 3D printing, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM). Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machine processes use everything from laser cutting to stamping to physically produce the precise steel products.

What are the benefits of precision in steel fabrication?

 Efficiency, cost savings, improved quality, accuracy… there are endless reasons that precision techniques are useful in steel fabrication.

We’ve already touched on the importance of precision in steel fabrication in this blog. But let’s have a look now at the benefits in more detail:

Time

Thanks to the equipment and software used to create precision steel, production time is reduced when compared to more traditional methods of production. Parts can be made in days rather than weeks, and the precision involved means there is less chance of error.

By choosing a precision steel manufacturer close to you, like FEM in central England, the lead time is also reduced.

Using a UK-based steel fabrication firm like FEM, which is local to you, means you don’t have to factor in overseas logistics, or allow for unforeseen problems with, for example, the transport of your product, or extra time when a prototype isn’t right.

Cost

As we’ve already alluded to, one of the main benefits of precision steel fabrication is a reduction in cost. Here’s why that is the case:

• Less waste – products being made to their exact specifications naturally means there is less waste.
• Accuracy – because parts are made so precisely, extra materials aren’t required to account for inaccurate parts being made.
• Labour – there is less manual labour involved with precision techniques because the machines that are used are highly automated.
• Tolerance guarantee – the precision of CNC machining ensures complex parts are made which achieve tighter tolerances than conventional methods.
• Time – the reduction in production time reduces the overall cost of the project.
• Economies of scale – due to identical products being produced quickly and accurately.

Flexibility

Precision machining can be used across a range of materials. But that’s not the only reason it is a flexible product technique. Custom parts can be made quickly so that prototypes can be produced and tested. Unique parts are made efficiently, and products can be modified quickly, or redesigned entirely, without needing to factor in a lengthy development stage.

Quality

Because of the accuracy involved, precision steel fabrication results in significantly better quality control when compared with manual methods of production.

The end product will have fewer defects; saving costs and improving performance.

A precise steel fabrication will assemble more easily with its component parts – enhancing overall performance.

Testing

Being able to make small adjustments to the precision technology and machinery means prototypes can be quickly and easily altered.

UK steel fabrication specialists…

Above all, choosing the right company for your business’s needs is vital to the success of your precision steel fabrication requirements.

FEM is a specialist, central-England based, steel fabrication company with more than 20 years’ experience in producing specialist steel parts for customers seeking assured quality. Family-owned and run, FEM prides itself on delivering a friendly, solution-focussed service that sets it apart from other steel fabrication companies.

Want to know more? FEM is passionate about finding ways to support your business with fabrication, welding and machining projects. Give us a call on 01909 774 836 for a free, no-obligation quote.

 

As a bespoke fabrication company based in Sheffield, FEM delivers quality metal fabrication products not just to companies in the northern Midlands, but across England, the whole of the UK, internationally, and even offshore.

What makes us a trusted fabrication company is our assurance and delivery of quality. So in this blog, we explore what that means to us, and why you should always seek out a bespoke fabrication company near you that priorities quality…

What do we mean by ‘quality control’ in metal fabrication?

 Quality control in metal fabrication means producing products to a high standard.

The International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) defines quality as the “degree to which a set of inherent characteristics of an object fulfils requirements”.

Quality within a fabrication company will be met and maintained using a Quality System – ensuring all elements of production, and all those involved in the production process, are working to the requirements of the same quality manual.

For quality fulfilment, metal fabrication firms will create a Quality Management programme to ensure Quality Control (completion of the process) and Quality Assurances (requirements of the process being met).

Quality Control is not a ‘one size fits all’ system, with each bespoke fabrication process requiring its own standards of quality to meet specifications. Unique quality control measures are identified by a specialist during the design part of the fabrication process.

How is quality control maintained in metal fabrication?

Quality control is maintained with the inspection of the product at each stage of its production.

This starts with a pre-production check of the materials; followed by an in-process inspection; completing quality control with a final inspection of the finished product.

How is quality control implemented in metal fabrication?

A considered quality management programme ensures quality control is implemented at every stage of the production process.

This includes:

Time – ensuring the timeline of production is kept to so that deadlines are met.

Safety – that the production team has safety training and codes of conduct are adhered to.

Cost – keeping to budget by limiting errors and delivering on time.

Compliance – making sure staff are trained on product compliance.

Maintenance – keeping equipment well maintained and regularly checked.

Communication – putting a system in place where any issues with quality are reported.

Automation – smart technology means quality control data can be monitored and stored.

Review – regularly reviewing quality control practices to be sure standards don’t slip.

Why is quality control important?

 Quality control is important not only for the customer, but also for the integrity and safety of the finished product.

That’s why FEM – a bespoke fabrication company in Sheffield – puts so much into quality control, as it’s vital to our reputation and why so many of our clients choose us time and again.

For us the quality control measures we put in place for metal fabrication projects mean our clients receive a finished product that is quality assured, free of defects and meets the brief and need they gave us at the design stage. And by putting in quality control measures at every stage of the process, issues are picked up quickly.

In conclusion, quality control is vital to the fabrication process because it: prevents defects, ensures functionality, guarantees safety, keeps products uniform and delivers projects to time and on budget.

What are the benefits of quality control to the metal fabrication process?

As the team here at our fabrication company in Sheffield have touched upon already in this blog, there are multiple reasons quality control is important in the metal fabrication process.

But here are a few other benefits brought about by quality control:

• Significantly reduces the risk of recall and all that comes with that.
• Enhanced measures improve safety.
• A reduction in liability risk.
• An increase in customer satisfaction.

What quality assurances should you look out for when choosing a fabrication company?

 

Following on from the quality control measures put in place during production is the quality assurance of not just the manufacturer, but of recognised third bodies such as ISO.

ISO defines quality assurance as “part of quality management focused on providing confidence that quality requirements will be fulfilled”.

Here at FEM we are accredited with ISO 9001 Certification, which sets out the criteria for a quality management system, helping to ensure our customers get consistent, high-quality products and services.

FEM’s ISO 9001 Certification helps us to comply, inspect and manage our quality control methods, and is the accredited quality assurance our customers look for when choosing us.

What quality control means to FEM…

 Quality control isn’t just a box-ticking exercise for us here at FEM. We believe it is integral to the integrity of our business and the reason we are so highly reviewed as a fabrication company in Sheffield.

We want every product we produce to be fit for purpose, delivering each project within budget and in a timely manner.

It’s the value we place in quality control which is why we are so well regarded in our industry, putting quality at the heart of everything we do, from an initial client consultation to the arrival of the finished product at its destination.

Where can I find quality control maintained fabrication near me?

Based in Rotherham, just outside of Sheffield in the north midlands of England, Fabrication Engineering Maintenance Ltd (FEM) is centrally based in the UK to easily meet the needs of customers across the length and breadth of the British Isles. We’re open Monday to Friday and always keen to have a chat about how we can fulfil your bespoke fabrication project.

 

 

Sheet metal fabrication is a fast-growing, innovative industry, and in this blog, we’ll look at what it is, current processes and industry outlook, and what the future holds for sheet metal fabrication companies like FEM…

What is sheet metal fabrication?

 To define sheet metal fabrication, it is a process that uses cutting, punching, folding and assembling to transform flat sheets of aluminium or steel into metal structures or products. The metal is bent, stretched and shaped via cutting and welding to create the finished product.

This process can be used to make all manner of metal products, from garages and lockers to surgical instruments and kitchen accessories.

What are the benefits of bespoke sheet metal fabrication?

 For bespoke metal fabrication, a highly specialised service like that provided by FEM is required.

Tailored products that are the result of bespoke sheet metal fabrication can benefit companies by allowing them to stand out from the crowd, differentiating their product from competitors with metal fabrication work that is unique, rather than standard.

A bespoke sheet metal product also supports efficiency, as compromises aren’t required to ensure a standard option adapts to the needs of a one-of-a-kind product. And the detail allows optimum solutions for all who use and work with it.

Another benefit of sheet metal fabrication is that standards for that specific product are met.

What are the processes in sheet metal fabrication?

 Working with a bespoke sheet metal fabrication company near to you, like FEM, will allow for a tailored service at every stage of the process.

However, as a guide, these are the usual processes involved in sheet metal fabrication:

• Designing
• Programming
• Cutting
• Punching (CNC punching)
• Bending
• Welding
• Assembly
• Powder coating

Remember, final products should always be signed off and certified to BSEN 1090.

The current outlook for sheet metal fabrication…

 The sheet metal fabrication industry is incredibly fast growing as it keeps pace with increasing demand, and as more sectors look to sheet metal fabrication for solutions to new problems.

In fact, it is one of the fastest growing industries in the world; the recent replacement of traditional methods with enhanced technology allowing efficiencies that have hugely supported that growth.

Demand for sheet metal fabrication is coming from a number of sectors, including large-scale industries like automotive, aerospace and construction; right down to everyday item manufacturers such as those who make household products.

With an eye on cost and waste, more is being asked of the sheet metal fabrication industry by its clients to improve operational efficiencies and ensure the lifespan of the products it produces.

 How will advancements in technology change sheet metal fabrication?

There are a number of advancements heading our way here at sheet metal fabrication companies like FEM in Sheffield. So with our finger on the pulse of all things ‘sheet metal fabrication’, here is a look at some of the main technologies which are soon to, or already starting to, support the way we deliver high standards:

Automated Machinery

So the use of automated machinery has already been around a good while thanks to the advancements brought by Industry 3.0. But how and when it is used is becoming more advanced, with the tasks automated machinery can perform increasing in their complexity, and the technology itself faster and cheaper to run.

Cyber Security

As technology improves and is integrated into the fabrication of sheet metal, so too does an increased risk of cyber attack.

Automation (above) and digitization (below) mean that hacked technology can expose private data and sensitive information.

Therefore the future advancements of sheet metal fabrication must keep pace with enhanced cyber security.

As most breaches are a result of human error, keeping our team trained on cyber security is something we are really passionate about at FEM.

Robotics

While there is no call for robotics to replace the skill and experience of a highly-trained sheet metal fabrication worker like those at FEM, the future for our industry will no doubt see the introduction of repetitive, un-skilled jobs, and those that are high-risk, handed over to ‘Co-Bots’ in years to come. This will free up time for our human team to concentrate on areas of production that require thought and expertise; such as bespoke sheet metal fabrication.

3D Printing

The current cost of 3D printing for steel fabrication is too high for most companies in the industry to buy and maintain the machines.

But as those with larger budgets have proved – like NASA – using 3D in the fabrication industry can be practical and flexible. So it’s likely that 3D printing will become a viable production tool in the metal fabrication industry in the future.

Digitization of data

Allowing data to be collected and stored has been transformative for many industries, and it will continue to improve efficiencies in sheet metal fabrication.

The digitization of data means information can be accessed by individuals anywhere, anytime and in real time. Thus allowing different areas of the business to communicate and utilize data quickly.

As this technology allows industries like ours to do more, processes will become increasingly equipped with data storing sensors.

Collecting, measuring and analyzing that data has already, and will continue to have, huge effects on the productivity, efficiency and transparency for sheet metal fabrication companies around the world.

So how will Industry 4.0 change the future of sheet metal fabrication?

Here at FEM, we don’t predict that the wants of our customers will change in the future; they will still seek quality sheet metal fabrication delivered to time and within budget.

However, how we meet those demands is likely to change:

1. Technology will expand the realm of projects we can undertake.
2. Efficiencies will reduce the time fabrication projects take to deliver.
3. Reductions in cost brought on by new technology will be passed on to the client.

For us, new technologies that will enter the sheet metal fabrication industry, like automation, will allow us to be more flexible, fast and scale our production. With a reduction in waste, we can be more sustainable too.

Why use a bespoke fabrication company like FEM for fabrication projects?

 Using a business which specialises in custom metal fabrication services like FEM can be hugely beneficial to the outcome of your project. Want to know more? Have a read of our blog post here. Whether it’s a new staircase or a raised platform, it should answer your FAQs about bespoke metal fabrication.

Alternatively, call us direct on 01909 774 836. Our team loves to find solutions to all metal fabrication problems, and give you bespoke ideas and a tailor-made quote for sheet metal fabrication near you.

What Is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is an alloy of several different types of metal that, when combined, are more resistant to corrosion than any of the metals used individually. This makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, from cladding to commercial kitchens.

Stainless steel is an alloy of iron with a minimum of 10.5% chromium. This forms a thin passive layer on the surface which protects the metal from corrosion and oxidation. It is this passive layer that gives stainless steel its name, as it is truly resistant to staining and corrosion.

There are a number of grades of stainless steel, each with different properties, but all with the common denominator of high resistance to rusting and staining. This makes stainless steel an ideal choice for a wide range of applications where hygiene is paramount, such as in the food and beverage industry, healthcare or pharmaceuticals. It is also often used in more corrosive environments such as marine engineering or chemical processing.

As well as being highly resistant to corrosion, stainless steel has a number of other advantages which make it an ideal choice for many applications. It is a very strong metal, making it perfect for fabricating into products which need to withstand high levels of wear and tear. It is also very easy to clean, as it is non-porous, meaning that bacteria and dirt cannot penetrate the surface.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of stainless steel:

Strong and Durable

Stainless steel is a very strong metal, making it ideal for fabricating products which need to withstand high levels of wear and tear. It is also very difficult to break or bend, making it perfect for products which need to be strong and durable.

Long Lifespan

Stainless steel is a very long-lasting material, meaning that products made from it will have a long lifespan. This makes it perfect for items which need to be used on a daily basis, such as cutlery or sinks.

Corrosion Resistance

One of the most important benefits of stainless steel is its resistance to corrosion. This makes it an ideal material for use in many different environments, including outdoor and marine applications.

The chromium in the stainless steel reacts with oxygen in the air to form a thin layer of chromium oxide on the surface of the metal. This layer protects the metal from further oxidation and corrosion.

Ease of Maintenance

Another benefit of stainless steel is that it is very easy to keep clean and maintain. This is due to its resistance to corrosion and ability to be cleaned easily.

Stainless steel can be cleaned with a variety of different methods, including using detergents, soap, and water. It is also possible to use specialised cleaning products which are designed for use on stainless steel.

Hygienic Properties

The hygienic properties of stainless steel make it an ideal material for use in many different applications, such as commercial kitchens and hospitals.

This is because stainless steel is non-porous and does not absorb liquids or dirt. This means that it is very easy to clean and disinfect, making it ideal for use in environments where hygiene is of paramount importance.

Applications

The many benefits of stainless steel make it an ideal material for use in a wide range of applications. These include:

• Cladding – Stainless steel cladding is often used on buildings to provide a modern and stylish finish. It is also very easy to clean and maintain, making it an ideal choice for use in commercial and public buildings.
• Fabrication – Stainless steel is often used in the fabrication of products which need to be strong and durable. It is also very easy to work with, making it ideal for use in a wide range of applications.
• Food and Beverage Industry – The food and beverage industry often uses stainless steel due to its resistance to corrosion and easy maintenance.
• Marine – Stainless steel is often used in marine applications due to its resistance to corrosion.
• Kitchens – Stainless steel is often used in the fabrication of commercial kitchens due to its resistance to corrosion and ability to be easily cleaned.
• Hospitals – The hygienic properties of stainless steel make it an ideal choice for use in hospitals and other healthcare environments.

About Us

FEM Fabrication is a leading provider of high-quality stainless steel fabrication services. We specialise in the manufacture, installation, and maintenance of a wide range of stainless steel products.

If you would like to find out more about our services, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We would be more than happy to discuss your requirements with you and provide you with a free quotation.

Free Quote

Our steel ladders are meticulously fabricated to provide safe access to services inside and outside your building. Safety is key here, which is why ladders, staircases and platforms are subject to so many industry-specific regulations, and why you should always use a professional steel fabricator to undertake the work.

Structural steel ladders – an introduction

Steel ladders – fixed or portable – provide a strong and durable way of scaling a height. Mild steel and stainless steel are both weatherproof for use outside, and tough enough to withstand many years of harsh industrial conditions.

At FEM, we can fabricate steel ladders, steps, and staircases using your design or one of our own. We can also add in extra safety features, such as a handrail, an access platform, or a step-over.

For exterior use, cat ladders or vertical ladders are a popular solution. They’re usually fixed to a wall or roof and fitted with a protective cradle, offering a way to safely access hard-to-reach areas.

The consequences of something going wrong while an employee is working at height are likely to be life-altering for everyone involved. Always make sure your chosen provider is following all of the necessary regulations for ladder fabrication.

Why choose FEM for your steel ladders

If you’re looking for steel fabrication services in Great Britain, then where better to find a provider than in the steel city itself – Sheffield. We’re a family-owned business, driven by a determination to offer our clients the very best this renowned city has to offer.

We’re also proud to say that we meet the standards for ISO9001 accreditation. When you choose to work with us, you can expect to receive a consistently high standard of work. Our reputation is everything, and we can confidently say that our approach to handling projects, from start to finish, has earned us loyalty among our clients.

To find out more about our fabrication services or to discuss steel ladder fabrication, call our team, email us, or use our contact form online.

Stainless Steel letter fabrication is a very popular fabrication service. Many business will use fabricated letters when opening a business to create a high quality, professional high end look. They also may be used for residential properties for house numbers. Stainless Steel Letters can be flat cut or built up depending on the desired look or impact you want to create.

Stainless steel is often the leading metal material used for steel letters due to it being fire and heat resistance, sustainable and corrosion resistant. it is a versatile material and typical inexpensive material which can create a big impact for your business. It is also an easy material to clean and maintain.

What can stainless steel letters be used for?

Fabricated metal letters can be used for internal and external use. You may often see them being used for:

• Name Plaques
• Building Names and Numbers
• Schools and Universities
• Shop signs
• Front Door numbers
• Boats
• Hotels

How are stainless steel letters fabricated?

Stainless steel is a highly popular material and heat resistant materials. It is the perfect material to use for metal letters and logos due to the durability and corrosion resistance elements of the material. Using your design, letters are created using CNC tools and machining to create the shape and specifications of the letters from stainless steel sheets.

The fabrication processes used during the creation of letters may involve cutting, forming, shearing, welding, and machining. Once the letters have been fabricated the letters will be buffed and painted if required. Stainless Steel is an ideal material if it needs to be painted.

Painting stainless steel is important as it helps to protect the material and can incorporate your desired colours. After the letters have been welded, the material will be cleaned and degreased. The metal will then be primed and painting the colour you desire. The paint will create a clean and smooth finished to the letters.

Once finished, the letters may have brackets on the inside as a mounting option. The letters will be installed and be set securely in place. Fabricated letters also have the option of having LED lighting behind the letters to illuminate the sign.

If you would like to know more about our stainless-steel fabrication process, you can find more about our services here or you can contact us using the contact form for a bespoke fabrication projects.

In the fabrication industry there is a wide range of different types of fabrication. Cutting, folding, casting, forging, machining, shearing, punching, stamping, and welding are the most common types of fabrication that are performed during the manufacturing process.

Types of Fabrication Processes

Cutting

Cutting involves splitting or cutting the metal material down into smaller sections. When creating large scale fabrication cutting may be used to create the desired sections. Large sheets of metal will be cut down into either halves or thirds before being shaped however, pre shaped metals may also use the cutting process. This can be done through advancements in technology and cutting tools including water jet cutting, laser cutting, CNC (computer numerical computer) cutting machines.

Forming

Forming is a common metal fabrication process to create a shape or a fold in the metal material. The process involves manipulating the piece of metal forming a bend that is usually done at a 90-degree angle. Forming requires high tech equipment to form shapes in the metal such as CNC press brakes or rolling machines.

Punching

Punching is the process of creating holes in metal workpieces by punching them in using specific machinery. Using metal sheets, the punching device will cut and punch desired shapes or holes on the flat surface of the metal. This can be done using CNC Turret Punch Machines for large scale fabrication. Smaller hand powered punching devices may be used for small scale fabrication.

Shearing

Shearing is a similar process to cutting. It involves removing unwanted material or excess metal material by trimming it in one long cut. One long straight cut is achieved by having two blades: One above the piece of metal and one below the metal. It is the perfect tool for cutting smaller lengths or different shape materials as the as the blades are able to be mounted at angles.

Stamping

Another fabrication process that is common and similar to punching. Unlike punching, Stamping will create an indentation as opposed to punching a hole in the metal. Stamping is done to create letters, shapes or images into a sheet of metal. Stamping machines are often used for coining and four slide forming.

Welding

Welding is probably the most popular fabrication procedure used. Welding involves joining multiple pieces metal together through heat and pressure. The welding process can be used for different types of metal to create any shapes and sizes. The most popular types of welding are MIG and TIG welding, stick or arc welding and spot and stud welding.

MIG (Metal Inert Gas) Welding and TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) Welding are two of the most common welding procedures we use at FEM for many of our fabrication projects for all industry needs including the construction industry.

Machining

Machining is the process of removing unwanted material from the metal by shaping it. This is commonly done using CNC Machining to ensure the measurements are precise.

Find out more about or machining service and process offered at FEM.

 

Types of Fabrication of Steel Structures

The structural steel fabrication process begins with the ideation stage. Before the physical labour of fabrication begins, our skilled fabricators will design the structure using specialist software. The design process involves factoring in the requirements, measurements and regulations and compliances needed for the fabrication.

Once the design is finalised the steel metal will involve:

• Cutting
• Forming
• Welding

Once the fabrication processes have been performed the steel structure can be assembled and become operational.

If you would like to know about the structure steel fabrication process, you can find out more here.

If you would like to find out more information regarding a fabrication project or a bespoke fabrication project, you can contact us where are team will be happy to help.