Working with metals always brings forth the two major processes in our mind — metal fabrication and welding. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they are distinct procedures with unique roles in manufacturing, various industrial applications and construction. However, they also share some similarities that contribute to their widespread use in designing metal components and structures. In this blog, we will understand the nuances that can help you select the right procedure for your particular needs.

What is metal fabrication?

Metal fabrication is a broad term that includes multiple procedures such as shaping, cutting, and assembling metal to design parts, structures, or finished parts. The term fabrication is attached with this process as it features customization. Fabricators fulfil the unique requirements of their clients with the process of custom metal fabrication. It is a comprehensive field that begins with raw materials and finishes with a completely formed product. Metal fabrication usually includes techniques as follows:

• Cutting: Utilizing tools for example lasers, plasma cutters and water jets to achieve particular shapes and dimensions.
• Bending: Utilizing press brakes or rollers to shape the metal sheets into desired forms.
• Forming: Molding or reshaping metal to meet the specifications of projects.
• Assembly: Putting together different components through riveting, welding or other methods.

Fabrication is important in industries including automotive, aerospace, construction and heavy equipment manufacturing, as it produces the required parts and components for different applications.

What is welding?

On the other hand, welding is a particular procedure within metal fabrication. It includes joining two or more metal pieces through applying heat, pressure or both to create a permanent bond. Unlike metal fabrication, that includes multiple techniques, welding focuses particularly on fusing materials.

This blog is originally published here: https://crescocustommetals.com/differences-between-metal-fabrication-and-welding/