From towering skyscrapers and bridges to more quaint homes and small buildings, all of these structures rely on steel shaping to make supports. The two main ways to shape steel are metal fabrication and welding. Sometimes the two processes are used interchangeably, but there is a big list of differences between the two.
As a construction professional, you likely understand the difference between them, but that leaves the question, which will help you complete your job?
Just to provide some background information, the best explanation is that metal fabrication makes an entire product from start to finish, whereas welding is often just part of the fabrication process.
Welding is fusing two or more metal pieces together, while fabrication involves bending, cutting, morphing, and of course, welding to make the end product. After fabrication, you have a complete frame, structure or item, whereas after welding, you may just have two connected pieces of steel.
So now that fabrication vs welding 101 is covered; let’s dive into which one you should rely on for your construction project.
When To Use A Metal Fabricator
A metal fabricator is who you call up to get your job started. They will make and provide you with complete, custom structural frames and structures for your construction job. A metal fabricator needs to read and interpret blueprints, cut, weld, assemble, and perform quality control checks on the design before sending it off. The end product is a tested and sturdy structural steel support or item.
Several industries rely on metal fabrication to kickstart their project. Construction and infrastructure are the leading consumers of structural steel, so companies in this field predominantly need a trusted metal fabricator to partner with. These organisations use steel because it is the most versatile, flexible and affordable metal for fabrication work.
At the baseline, fabricated structural steel supports need to be durable and reliable because they are the frame for the whole project. E M Steel is a team of super-experienced metal fabricators who have been in the industry for over a decade. We are knowledgeable in all forms of steel fabrication, including welding, so no job is too complicated when you come to us. We will deliver great quality structural steel products that will likely outlast the other materials of your build.
When To Use A Welder
Welders can cut, fuze and repair beams, columns and other metal structures on a construction job. They can also create parts for buildings, bridges and other structures to a lesser extent than fabricators.
Calling in a welder is great for onsite projects that are separate from the initial fabrication order. They can help attach features that need to be added after the fact. Welding is often reserved for large building projects that may need metal joints to be attached at various stages of construction. Small buildings often have all structural needs covered with the initial fabricated frame and have no need for welding.
In building construction, a welder may be utilised to set up handrails, stairs, pipes, etc. They often help set up systems late into the construction and furnishing process.
Need A Structural Steel Fabricator?
At E M Steel, we are renowned for fabricating and designing high-quality and durable steel building or architectural supplies. We are a full-service steel fabrication company and have the ability to meet job requirements in a timely and affordable manner. Get in touch with our team today to see how we can help you!
