There's a wide range of raw materials that are needed for metal fabrication and knowing which items to keep on hand can help speed up the fabrication process and make sure that workers are always supplied with what they need. Here are a few basic materials that are needed in metal fabrication and a bit about each.
- Plate metal- this is a necessity so that those that are creating can shape the pieces they are working with and so that they have a better range of what they can do.
- Fittings- these are also necessary so that pieces can be created and completed.
- Castings- castings add visual interest to the fabrication and keeping them on hand may help speed the creation process.
- Formed and Expanded Metal- expanded metal is grate-like so it is perfect for things like outdoor furniture that need to be able to let moisture flow off and through. This is also great for sculpture and for those that want to create shape and movement.
- Hardware- some types of hardware that may be necessary for metal fabrication are things like wires, chains, keys, latches, locks, handles, corners and other interesting pieces.
- Sectional Metal- some types of sectional metal that are commonly used are things like "I beams", these are structural beams that resemble the letter “I”. Z shape, that resemble the letter z, are also used as well as bar metal and rod metal.
- Flat Metal- flat metal like sheet metal, foil and leaf metal, and plate metal are all great for fabrication and can be added to pieces to create visual interest and texture. These are perfect for making shapes as well.
- Welding Wire- since fabrication requires that pieces be welded together, it is essential to keep various thicknesses and types of welding wire on hand so that pieces can be fixed to one another to create the final product that is being made. Welding wire is a must.
If you're looking for any assistance with construction design or steel contractors, contact Midwest Steel today!