Metal fabrication involves transforming sheet metal and other flat metals into predefined shapes. The process starts with metal sheets no thicker than a quarter inch, which are malleable enough to be shaped into various forms. Fabricators then modify these sheets using techniques such as cutting, stamping, shaping, folding, and welding. Custom fabrication, a related practice, involves creating unique parts through innovative combinations of these processes.

Designing

During the design stage, an item's design is reviewed and adjusted as needed for manufacturing. This may involve either a general design or a custom design created by a metal fabricator. For custom designs, this stage often involves working closely with the customer to meet specific requirements, with the fabrication service provider contributing their expertise to unique projects. 

Designing

During the design stage, an item's design is reviewed and adjusted as needed for manufacturing. This may involve either a general design or a custom design created by a metal fabricator. For custom designs, this stage often involves working closely with the customer to meet specific requirements, with the fabrication service provider contributing their expertise to unique projects. The manufacturer's design team uses CAD (computer-aided design) software to develop designs, collaborating with the customer to define project needs, manufacturing strategies, and areas for improvement. The designer and fabricator must work together to resolve any discrepancies between the original design and the fabrication methods, a process known as steel detailing.