Metal fabrication helps humans live better lives. Today, metal fabrication is an important sector of our economy that plays a vital role in manufacturing many products in the market. For example, car manufacturers require numerous metal fabrication processes to make vehicle bodies and other parts.

Thanks to modern technology, metal fabrication today is more refined than it was, enabling intricate designs and minimizing mistakes. However, due to the complexity of modern metal fabrication, fabricators must ensure the highest levels of precision and accuracy.

While a single mistake in metal fabrication can lead to huge losses or injuries, most mistakes are avoidable if you know about them. Below are some common fabrication mistakes to look out for when planning or actualizing your projects.

1. Wrong Choice of Material 

Since different metal types have varying properties, fabricators should choose a metal depending on your project's needs. For example, if you choose the least expensive metal available, your client may experience problems with the product down the line.

In addition to the effectiveness of the final product, your choice of material can significantly affect the fabrication process. For example, if you choose the strongest material for complex designs, you might overwork your machines, leading to frequent breakdowns.

2. Uninformed Decisions

Pseudo assumptions can lead to huge losses in fabrication, especially when making parts for a machine with many components. For example, a car's door will not fit properly during assembly if you use the wrong measurements when fabricating. Such differences can significantly affect a product's performance.

Therefore, metal fabricators should follow their clients' specifications and measurements meticulously to avoid manufacturing defects. So, if you doubt the correctness of a client's measurements or specifications, reach out to them for more details instead of making assumptions about it.

 3. Improper Material Storage

As a metal fabricator, you need a sufficient stock of various materials to minimize lead times. However, to avoid damage to materials, consider the natural properties of your raw materials when designing your storage area.

For example, light materials that can easily break should have a safe storage area with less traffic. Also, store ferrous raw materials, like fillers, indoors and away from water and moisture to prevent corrosion.

Damage to raw materials can lead to defective final products, or the damage could render the materials unfit for use.

4. Poor Scheduling

Like any other form of manufacturing, metal fabrication requires proper scheduling for the best results. To meet deadlines, you must plan for the timely delivery of supplies. Also, ensure that you have enough time to complete the fabrication process and allow the filler and binders to settle before delivering the finished product.

If you fabricate in a hurry, you might compromise the quality of the finished product or even hurt yourself.

5. Unrealistic Designs

Though most modern fabrication tools can enable complex fabrications, each material has its limits that you must respect when designing your products. Unrealistic designs can lead to issues like material wastage and poor structural stability of the final product.

If you are unsure about the feasibility of your designs, seek other fabricators' opinions or start with a prototype for better assessment.

Some metal fabrication mistakes can make your project costly and frustrating. Use the information above to do the right things that help your projects go smoothly. Moreover, if you outsource your fabrication projects, hire a reputable fabricator for flawless products.

At Schorr Metals Inc, we have the experience and equipment necessary to offer a wide variety of quality fabrication services. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services. We look forward to helping you with your metal fabrication needs.