Match top local vendors for metal fabrication

Crafting precision-engineered solutions tailored to your needs. Order metal fabrication parts with unmatched speed and reliability. From concept to production, our expertise ensures your vision becomes a reality. Discover seamless collaboration, precise execution, and products built to elevate your projects.

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Why SOURCIX is the smarter choice for your metal fabrication

AI data driven matching
Self-managed vendors
Access to a vetted global network
Multi-Ofer comparison
Best combined quote
Full transparency
Cost efficiency
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spent issuing bids and managing files

Save 85% of the time spent issuing bids and managing files.

Reduce the time spent on arranging the bill of materials, choosing relevant vendors, and issuing the bid.

Upload multiple files all at once.

Upload your own spreadsheet; we will extract the information from there.

Communicate with the relevant engineer in your organization.

Local & Global quotes comparing (1)

Local & Global quotes comparing.

Gain best-in-class matchmaking, either from your vendor network or our global vetted marketplace.

Your production files are analyzed and compared to our big data.

We expose the bid only to the most compatible vendors.

Compare item prices, including shipping, for point-to-point delivery.

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Manage your projects 10 times faster.

Manage your projects more efficiently with our advanced team collaboration tools, ongoing status updates, and comprehensive production management.

Each team member is responsible for their role in the project.

Get full live updates on the progress or changes during production.

Access all necessary documents on-site; no need for hard copies.

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AGD has been very satisfied with SOURCIX's support, prompt responses, and attention to detail. We’ve decided to move forward with more projects and make SOURCIX our main service for development and prototypes, with plans to expand to full production soon.

Alberto Guerra

CEO at AGD PRODUCTIONS, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA USA

Trusted by leading companies for metal fabrication

Looking for new metal fabrication vendors? It’s simple as that

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Get several quotes based on your requirements, including shipping and any additional costs, and choose the one that best suits you.

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A touch of technical expertise

Manufacturing process Type Type of items Common materials Typical tolerances

CNC

Milling

Complex 3D shapes
Enclosures and housings
Custom brackets
Prototypes
Mold and tooling

Aluminium 6061 / 7075
Steel 1018 / 4140
SST 304 / 316
Brass / Copper
Plastics (POM, ABS, Nylon)

+/- 0.01 mm to +/- 0.05mm

Turning

Cylindrical components
Shafts
Sleeves and bushings
Fittings
Custom threaded parts

Steel 4140 / 1045
SST 316 / 303
Titanium
Plastics (PTFE, PEEK)

+/- 0.01 mm to +/- 0.05mm

Sheet metal

Enclosures and chassis
Brackets
Panels
Covers and guards
Structural frames

Aluminium 5052
Steel
SST 304 / 316
Copper
Polycarbonate

+/- 0.5 mm to +/- 1mm

Comprehensive Guide to Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication is a critical process in modern manufacturing and engineering, involving the transformation of raw metal materials into precise structures and components. This guide delves into the technical aspects, methodologies, and applications of metal fabrication, catering to professionals and enthusiasts in the field.

1. Overview of Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication encompasses a range of techniques used to shape, cut, and assemble metal into final products. Common metals involved include:

  • Steel: High strength, widely used in construction and automotive industries.
  • Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, ideal for aerospace and consumer goods.
  • Copper: Excellent conductivity, primarily used in electrical applications.
  • Brass: Combines durability and aesthetics, used in decorative and industrial settings

1. Overview of Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication encompasses a range of techniques used to shape, cut, and assemble metal into final products. Common metals involved include:

  • Steel: High strength, widely used in construction and automotive industries.
  • Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, ideal for aerospace and consumer goods.
  • Copper: Excellent conductivity, primarily used in electrical applications.
  • Brass: Combines durability and aesthetics, used in decorative and industrial settings.

2. Key Steps in Metal Fabrication

The metal fabrication process typically includes the following stages:

2.1 Design and Engineering
  • CAD Software: Engineers use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools to create precise blueprints and schematics.
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Simulation techniques to predict stresses, strains, and deformations in the final product.
2.2 Cutting
  • Laser Cutting: Uses concentrated light beams for precision cuts, suitable for intricate patterns.
  • Plasma Cutting: Employs ionized gas to cut through thick metals.
  • Waterjet Cutting: High-pressure water mixed with abrasive materials for clean, heat-free cuts.
  • Shearing: Mechanically cuts sheet metal along straight lines.
2.3 Forming
  • Bending: Press brakes or rolling machines deform the metal to specific angles.
  • Stamping: Dies and presses create detailed shapes and patterns.
  • Drawing: Metal is stretched into a desired shape without breaking.
2.4 Welding and Joining
  • MIG Welding (Metal Inert Gas): Fast and versatile, suitable for various thicknesses.
  • TIG Welding (Tungsten Inert Gas): Provides cleaner welds, often used for aluminum and stainless steel.
  • Spot Welding: Common in automotive manufacturing for joining thin sheets.
  • Fasteners: Screws, bolts, and rivets are used for non-permanent joints.
2.5 Surface Treatment
  • Powder Coating: Applies a durable, decorative finish.
  • Galvanizing: Adds a zinc layer to prevent corrosion.
  • Anodizing: Enhances corrosion resistance, particularly in aluminum.
  • Sandblasting: Cleans and prepares surfaces for further treatment.
2.6 Assembly
  • Final components are assembled into complete products using various tools and techniques.

3. Types of Metal Fabrication Processes

Metal fabrication methods vary depending on the requirements of the project:

3.1 Custom Fabrication

Tailored for unique applications, often requiring specialized equipment and processes.

3.2 Industrial Fabrication

Mass production for industrial use, focusing on efficiency and scalability.

3.3 Structural Fabrication

Used in construction for frameworks, bridges, and buildings.

3.4 Sheet Metal Fabrication

Focuses on forming, cutting, and joining thin metal sheets for applications like HVAC systems and enclosures.

4. Advanced Metal Fabrication Techniques

Technological advancements have led to innovative fabrication methods:

4.1 Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
  • Metal powder is melted layer by layer to create complex geometries.
  • Common materials: Stainless steel, titanium, and cobalt-chrome.
4.2 CNC Machining
  • Computer-controlled machines ensure precision in cutting, drilling, and milling.
  • Benefits include high repeatability and minimal material waste.
4.3 Robotic Welding
  • Automation improves consistency and speed.
  • Often used in automotive and aerospace industries.
4.4 Laser Cladding
  • Adds a protective layer to surfaces, enhancing wear resistance.
  • Ideal for repairing or upgrading metal components.

5. Quality Control in Metal Fabrication

Ensuring the integrity and accuracy of fabricated metal products involves stringent quality checks:

5.1 Inspection Techniques
  • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Ultrasonic, radiographic, and magnetic particle testing to identify defects.
  • Dimensional Inspection: Verifies measurements against specifications using calipers and coordinate measuring machines (CMM).
5.2 Standards and Certifications
  • ISO 9001: Quality management system for consistent results.
  • AWS Standards: Guidelines for welding procedures and qualifications.
  • ASTM Specifications: Defines material properties and testing methods.

6. Applications of Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication is integral to numerous industries:

6.1 Aerospace
  • Components for aircraft frames, engines, and satellites.
  • High precision and lightweight materials are critical.
6.2 Automotive
  • Frames, panels, and exhaust systems.
  • Emphasis on durability and crash safety.
6.3 Construction
  • Structural steel beams, rebar, and metal roofing.
  • Focus on load-bearing capabilities and weather resistance.
6.4 Electronics
  • Heat sinks, casings, and connectors.
  • Prioritizes conductivity and miniaturization.
6.5 Medical Devices
  • Surgical instruments, implants, and diagnostic equipment.
  • Requires biocompatibility and sterilization compatibility.

7. Conclusion

Metal fabrication is a cornerstone of modern manufacturing, blending craftsmanship with advanced technology to meet diverse industrial demands. From custom components to mass production, the industry continues to innovate, driving progress across sectors. Understanding the technicalities, challenges, and future trends ensures that businesses and professionals stay ahead in this dynamic field.