What file do I send for laser cutting?

A DXF or DWG of the flat outline together with the material and thickness. For anything with bends, add a drawing that shows the bend positions and angles.

Is painting or powder coating included?

Only if you ask for it. Say what finish you need in the requirement, so workshops can include it or tell you who does it.

Can a fabricator work from a sketch?

Some can, but a dimensioned drawing gives the most reliable quote. If you only have a sketch, add the important dimensions and photos.

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Fabrication

Sheet-metal cutting and bending, welded structures, frames and assemblies.

Fabrication turns sheet, plate, pipe and sections into finished items by cutting, bending, welding and assembling: enclosures, frames, brackets, tanks and machine structures. Clear drawings and a clear finish requirement save the most time.

Fabricators cut with laser, plasma, shearing or punching, bend on press brakes, and weld using MIG, TIG or arc welding. They may also assemble, paint, powder-coat or galvanise, or work with partners who do.

Some fabricators focus on thin sheet metal enclosures, others on heavy structural work. Check that the workshop's size and equipment suits the job.

Materials commonly used

Mild steel sheet and plate
Stainless steel (304, 316)
Aluminium sheet and sections
Galvanised and pre-coated sheet

What to send with your requirement

A drawing with dimensions, thickness and weld details, and a 3D model or DXF for flat parts
The material and grade
The finish: painting, powder coating, galvanising or plating
The quantity, and whether it is repeat work
Where it will be used, and any standards or tests that apply

What affects the cost

Material, thickness and weight
Cutting and bending operations and welding time
Tolerances and the amount of fit-up and finishing work
Surface treatment and painting
Quantity, since programming and jigs are spread across the batch

Common mistakes to avoid

Not specifying weld type and quality
Forgetting the finish, then finding it is a separate cost
Leaving out bend radii and material thickness
Expecting sheet-metal workshop capacity on heavy structural work, or the reverse

Need Fabrication done?

Post your requirement free. Workshops that take your kind of job see it and get in touch. You only talk to the ones that fit.

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Frequently asked questions

What file do I send for laser cutting?: A DXF or DWG of the flat outline together with the material and thickness. For anything with bends, add a drawing that shows the bend positions and angles.
Is painting or powder coating included?: Only if you ask for it. Say what finish you need in the requirement, so workshops can include it or tell you who does it.
Can a fabricator work from a sketch?: Some can, but a dimensioned drawing gives the most reliable quote. If you only have a sketch, add the important dimensions and photos.

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