If you’re familiar with the manufacturing world, you’ve definitely heard the terms “fabrication” and “welding,” but are you familiar with fabrication welding? 

If not, you might wonder: Is metal fabrication the same as welding? What is a welding fabricator? What does a metal fabricator do? And why is fabrication welding important? Let’s illuminate this industry term by exploring all there is to know about welding fabrication and what these professionals do. 

 

What is Fabrication Welding?

Fabrication welding is a term used to describe the complete cycle of both fabrication and welding that metal pieces or structures go through during the manufacturing process.

You might be familiar with the term “welding” used alone to describe the joining or connecting of metal components with a high-temperature torch. In mig welding, the welding unit melds two metal pieces together with the assistance of filler metals, once the object has cooled. Welding can also describe bending and shaping metal to create a precise shape or form needed for production or construction. “Fabrication Welding” is a term that includes the welding process but essentially describes the whole metal manufacturing process from start to finish. 

Fabrication welding is an all-encompassing design and build process that includes planning, manufacturing, welding, and installing metal structures without the use of fixturing. 

Both ferrous and non-ferrous metals are used for fabrication welding throughout the metal production process. These metals include steel, aluminum, iron, and zinc. Dependent on the manufacturer, these materials might be introduced in their pure form and then cut by machines and molded into any size and shape that is needed for the manufacturing process.

While the process of fabrication welding might seem abstract and niche, the applications of this metal work spread wider than the walls of a factory. Without the work of fabrication welders, we would not have many modern buildings, gates, kitchen appliances, and even space engineering – so it’s fair to say that it’s a valuable technique on a large scale. 

 

What Do Fabricator Welders Do?

A fabricator welder – or welder fabricator – constructs metal components, pieces, and structures essential for metal production within the manufacturing industry. They have to be skilled in multiple areas, including planning, metal fabrication, consistent production that follows industry standards, careful handiwork, testing components, and metal-making industry knowledge. 

In their job, a fabricator welder will likely be responsible for: 

  • Machine fabrication of various materials and components
  • Fitting, setting, and installing fabricated structures
  • Cutting and welding metal
  • Metal manipulation, including bending, forming, and finishing
  • Machine Repair
  • Fixture building
  • Other industry or trade-specific responsibilities

 

With a diverse set of skills and integral knowledge of the metal fabrication and production industry, it’s fair to say that fabricator welders offer essential skills that are key in the manufacturing industry. 

 

Fabrication Welding Capabilities at American Manufacturin

Fabrication Welding is demonstrably an occupation that takes skill and time to develop and perfect. American Manufacturing aims to play a part in increasing industry standards for the health of your workers and the productivity of your business. The entire welding fabrication process often involves standing for long periods of time, moving in tight spaces, and positioning that requires bending and positioning oneself at awkward angles. Unfortunately, the static standing, bending, turning, and stooping required for professional welding can become hazardous for welders. We offer custom fabricated ergonomic equipment designed especially for the fabrication welding process. Check out the complete list of our top-of-the-range ergonomic manufacturing equipment here.

For ergonomic solutions, safe industry standards, and high-quality equipment, get in touch with American Manufacturing to discover our products and services. We are always available to answer your questions and keep you informed of the latest news, products, and developments in the manufacturing industry.