5 Main Differences Between Welding and Metal Fabrication

Welding and metal fabrication are two processes that are often used together to create metal products. Welding is a process of joining two pieces of metal together by heating them to a high temperature and then cooling them so that they fuse together. Metal fabrication is the process of shaping and assembling metal parts to create a finished product.

The two processes are often used together because welding can be used to create metal parts that are too difficult or expensive to create using other methods. For example, welding can be used to create metal pipes that are used in construction or to create metal sculptures. However, while they are used together, they’re not actually the same thing!

1. Materials

One of the main differences between welding and metal fabrication is the type of materials used. Welding typically involves joining two pieces of metal together, while metal fabrication can involve working with a variety of metals, as well as other materials such as plastics and glass.

2. Process

Welding is generally a more streamlined process than metal fabrication. In welding, two pieces of metal are joined together by melting and fusing them. In contrast, metal fabrication can involve a variety of processes, such as cutting, bending and assembling. That’s because the final result is a finished product, which may or may not require multiple processes.

3. Equipment

Welding and metal fabrication both require the use of specialised equipment. However, the type of equipment used can differ depending on the process. For example, welding typically requires the use of a welder, while metal fabrication might require the use of a lathe, mill, plasma cutter, or any other piece of equipment to do the job.

4. Skills

Both welding and metal fabrication requires a high level of skill. However, the skills needed can differ depending on the process. For example, welding generally requires more of a focus on precision, while metal fabrication might require more of an ability to work with a variety of materials, tools, and processes.

5. Applications

The final products of welding and metal fabrication can differ depending on the application. Welding is often used to create structures or products that need to be very strong and durable, such as bridges or buildings. Metal fabrication, on the other hand, is often used to create products that require a high level of precision, such as medical devices. But of course, metal fabrication can have welding as part of its process.

Conclusion

As you can see, welding and metal fabrication aren’t exactly the same thing. Welding focuses on the processes of welding two pieces of metal together, while metal fabrication covers a broader range of processes to turn metal items into final products. So, if you’re looking for welding jobs, then welding alone would be enough. However, if you need to put metal through multiple processes to shape, form, and turn them into finished products, then metal fabrication is the way to go. But of course, always be sure to work with professionals for the job. Whether it be metal fabricators or welders, the right experts will ensure that your expectations are thoroughly met!

CSM Fabrication Welding offers welding and metal fabrication services in O’Conner, Perth. If you are looking for sheet metal welding and fabrication services offered by professionals, reach out to us today!

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