The Difference Between Welding and Metal Fabrication

ALEXANDRIA, VA-

Businesses can benefit from welding and metal fabrication. These processes yield strong and reliable custom materials for the workplace. However, newcomers to the subject frequently confuse the difference between welding and metal fabrication. Below, we’ll explain exactly how these two processes differ. That way, you can use the right method for manufacturing workplace equipment.

Intro To Welding

Welding is the process of melting two metals together to form a strong, clean workpiece. Certain mistakes can lead to weak structural integrity or a messy appearance, but a good weld should be as presentable as it is reliable. Construction, automotive, aerospace, and food production are just a few industries benefitting from welding regularly. For example, if you’re repairing an automobile or aircraft, the strong bond of a good weld can successfully bring broken components back together.

Likewise, welding steel structural components together is essential for building a safe, reliable skyscraper. There are different types of welding methods, with TIG, MIG, and stick being the three most common. Each method has its ups and downs depending on the application. That said, TIG, MIG, and stick welding benefit each of the aforementioned industries, but for different jobs.

Understanding Metal Fabrication

If you read through the history of welding, you’ll see this process has been around for quite a while, evolving in significant ways over the years. However, welding is one part of a larger process—metal fabrication. The term “metal fabrication” refers to the comprehensive process behind building a metal structure for workplace needs. Metal fabrication helps companies design and build custom structures such as desks, light fixtures, and even hospital beds.

So, if you’re speaking to a metal fabricator, you’re speaking to someone who can help you design, manufacture, and assemble metal structures. That said, there are various fabrication methods depending on the application. Besides welding, fabricators can build structures through cutting, bending, extruding, folding, and punching.

As you can see, the difference between welding and metal fabrication is very straightforward. Welders will help you complete one very specific part of the metal fabrication process. On the other hand, a professional fabricator will offer a more comprehensive means of finding custom workplace solutions. Now that you know the difference, you can seek the right services for your specific needs.