With the right tools and expertise, metal fabricators can create almost anything you can imagine, from tiny machine parts to large-scale prototypes. Because welding is the most common example of metal fabrication, many people assume that they’re two terms for the same aspect. While welding is an important part of any machine shop’s work, metal fabrication actually involves much more.

The Difference Between Metal Fabrication & Welding

What Is Metal Fabrication?

Metal fabrication is the process of cutting, bending, and shaping materials to create the desired product. To fulfill the needs of their clients, metal fabricators might use milling machines to create cylindrical objects, or advanced grinders to shape small, intricate parts. Many machine shops now employ advanced lasers that cut shapes out of sheet metal, which can then be shaped, joined or bent to a client’s exact specifications.

Before work can begin, metal fabrication shops also offer advice on the design and shape of the object, based on their fields of expertise. They may be able to recommend changes to reduce production time or come up with ways to create the same object in fewer steps. This valuable insight can save fabrication clients a great deal of time and money.

A Guide to Welding

Most simply, welding is the process through which two different pieces of metal are joined. Depending on the project, welding can be a crucial part of the fabrication process, especially when constructing large frames or complex shapes. Most welding equipment uses an electrical current to heat the materials past their melting point, after which the objects are fused. Once the seam has cooled, the welder uses a grinder to shave off excess material, creating a smooth seam and strong joint.

No matter what metal fabrication project you’re working on, the experts at C & C Machine have the equipment and expertise to deliver the results you need. Over the years, they’ve provided effective advice and a wide range of metal fabrication services to businesses and private clients throughout the La Crosse, WI area. Visit their website for more on their advanced capabilities, follow their Twitter for more tips and advice, or call (608) 784-4427 to discuss your project and request an estimate.