While fabricate and weld sound the same, they have different roles. Fabrication makes parts from raw metal. Welding joins those parts together. At Orthman Conveying, we manage both processes. Because we do both in one shop, you receive strong, ready-to-use metal parts.
What Does It
Mean to Fabricate?
At the start, we plan and design parts. After planning, we cut metal with CNC machines or lasers. Then we bend or roll metal into shapes. Next, we bolt or tack-weld these pieces together. Finally, we paint or coat surfaces for protection.
Steps to fabricate parts:
- Review blueprints and material lists.
- Cut metal to exact sizes.
- Bend or roll metal to shape.
- Bolt or weld parts together.
- Paint or coat for protection.
Because we follow each step closely, good fabrication makes parts fit well. Therefore, machines run smoothly.
How Welding Fits into the Fabrication Process
To begin, we clean metal surfaces carefully. Then, we use a torch or electrode to melt metal at the seams. Once melted, the metal cools and fuses pieces together. Finally, we inspect each weld to check its strength. Also, we wear full safety gear because protection matters.
Key welding steps:
- Clean surfaces for strong welds.
- Heat metal to melting point.
- Fuse parts as metal cools.
- Check welds for quality.
- Wear safety gear at all times.
Strong welds keep fabricated parts secure. Consequently, products last longer and work better.
Why Fabrication Matters
Fabrication powers many industries. For example, in construction, we make beams and supports. In manufacturing, we build machine parts. In automotive, we form frames and panels. With aerospace, we meet tight specs. With agriculture, we craft conveyors and augers.
Moreover, good fabrication ensures parts last longer. Meanwhile, it boosts performance and safety.
Fabrication in Action: Convey
or Frame
Our team recently fabricated a new conveyor frame for a client. We began by designing it in CAD based on their specs. The next step involved cutting and bending steel tubes to size. Afterward, our crew tack-welded and bolted each section carefully. Finally, we fully welded, painted, and tested the completed frame.
Results:
- Conveyor ran 20% faster.
- Maintenance dropped by 30%.
- Investment paid off in months.
The client saw real value from precise fabrication and welding.
Choosing a Fabrication Partner
When you need to fabricate parts, f
ollow these tips:
- Check their experience with similar projects.
- Confirm they cut, form, weld, and finish in-house.
- Ask about their quality control steps.
- Verify they meet your deadlines.
- Ensure they provide support after delivery.
At Orthman Conveying, we do it all under one roof. So, you save time and money.
Tips for Effective Fabrication
Use these simple tips:
- Plan each project in detail.
- Prep metal surfaces before welding.
- Select the right tools for cutting and bending.
- Inspect parts and welds frequently.
- Maintain your equipment regularly.
Also, train your team well. Because of that, you avoid mistakes.
Why Fabricate with Orthman?
At Orthman Conveying, we excel at fabrication and welding. We offer:
- Complete design and engineering.
- Precise cutting and forming.
- Skilled welding and joining.
- Professional finishing and inspection.
Furthermore, our in-house process means faster delivery. As a result, you meet your project goals on time.
Conclusion
In summary, fabrication shapes metal into parts. Welding then joins those parts. Together, they build strong and reliable products. At Orthman Conveying, we deliver both services with expertise. Contact us today to start your next fabrication and welding project!
