What Is GD&T Cylindricity?
Engineers use CAD software and prototyping to explore possible dimensions for custom components. Some engineers and fabricators use geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to show dimensions in 3-D, including how close an object is to being a true cylinder. GD&T cylindricity is difficult to measure. It requires advanced technology and a lot of time. Keep […]
How to View Engineering Drawings: Design Views Explained
Whether you’re creating a groundbreaking widget or iterating on a tried-and-true part, detailed, concise manufacturing drawings are essential for production. Engineering sketches communicate your ideas to the production team. Not only do these drawings ensure accurate cuts and dimensions, but they also relay critical fabrication instructions like tolerances and coatings. If you have a great […]
Quick Guide to Common GD&T Symbols
Engineers use computer-assisted design (CAD) software to draw models and build manufacturable blueprints. A CAD drawing gets passed from the designer to others in the fabrication and assembly departments. Everyone in the manufacturing process needs to understand the part’s constraints and tolerances clearly. Engineers and designers learn another language: GD&T. Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) […]
7 Benefits of Stainless Steel for Custom Metal Fabrication
What do a refrigerator door and a high-rise have in common? Material. They may both be stainless steel. Stainless steel fabricators produce components for cookware, home appliances, surgical tools, medical implants, bridges, and automotive bodies. Many of our most memorable landmarks are also made of stainless steel—take the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, The Bean […]
Behind Your Estimate: 5 Influences on Custom Metal Fabrication Costs
Whether you’re an automotive, aerospace or consumer goods part supplier, you work with other manufacturers to create a final product—one made up of numerous components. New products or enhanced designs require newly fabricated parts. Before starting a project, you need to know how much custom metal fabrication costs. How do fabrication shops come up with […]
Welding Shielding Gases: Why are Gas Shields Necessary in Welding?
Weld areas need protection from contaminants in the air. Atmospheric gases like oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen and water vapor can impair welds and cause oxidation. All types of arc welding require a shielding gas, whether you’re practicing GMAW (MIG welding) to join thicker materials or GTAW (TIG welding) to fuse thin metals. Welding shielding gases influence […]
The Difference Between Hot Rolled and Cold Rolled Steel
Steel is one of the most popular metals used today. Its strength and durability make it an excellent, cost-effective choice for construction, manufacturing and more. While steel is tough, it’s also flexible and versatile, allowing you to cut and form it into the shape you need. What is steel used for? Take a closer look […]
Get the Best Finish: Powder Coating Types & Materials
Forget wet paint. Try a dry finish. Powder coatings are excellent choices for that final film of color, texture or protection. According to the Powder Coating Institute, powder coating is a more economical and environmentally friendly alternative to liquid paint, and it’s been around since the 1960s. Compared to liquid paint, powder coat finishes are […]
Welding with Robots: Capabilities & Benefits of Robotic Welding
In 1962, General Motors was the first to add a welding robot to a production line. Though robotic welding came on the scene in the mid-twentieth century, it didn’t take off until the 1980s as more and more automotive manufacturers started using the technology for vehicle bodywork. Today, manufacturers across industries employ welding robots to […]
Properties of Metals: Choosing A Type of Metal for Fabrication
The material chosen for a fabrication project affects if it will function as expected. Every metal has properties that determine how it can be processed. Selecting the right metal ensures that component parts can handle their environment and end use. Other factors like finishing processes, the size of the product and the project’s estimated cost […]