Most used material in this sector?
Since we see a variety of requests, there’s no one material that is best to use when working for the engineering and fabrication sector. As enquiries can vary drastically, a material that is perfect for one application might not be as well suited to the next – we speak to our customers to determine what they want, we manufacture their parts exactly to requirement and deliver directly on the agreed date.
However, we’ve found that the most common material we work with is mild steel: mainly S275, but also S355, as these are structural grade steels, so they are able to withstand the requirements of the industry as they are both able to cope with significant pressure, whilst being able to be machined and welded relatively easily!
What processes do you carry out most often for the Engineering/Fabrication sector?
Since the engineering and fabrication industry is so all-encompassing, it really varies project to project as to which processes are needed. We use a number of laser cutting processes during any given project: most commonly flatbed laser cutting, tube laser cutting, and even secondary operations such as press braking, machining and bright zinc plating.
Flat Laser Cutting
Flatbed laser cutting is a highly efficient and versatile technology widely adopted in engineering and fabrication businesses for precision cutting of various materials, including Steel, Aliuminum, Brass & Copper. Utilizing a focused laser beam, this method allows for intricate and accurate cuts with minimal material waste and high repeatability, which is essential for producing complex parts with tight tolerances.
The non-contact nature of laser cutting reduces the risk of material deformation and contamination, ensuring high-quality finishes. Additionally, flatbed laser cutters are highly programmable and can be integrated with computer-aided design (CAD) systems, streamlining the transition from design to production. This technology not only enhances productivity but also offers flexibility in handling custom and batch production runs, making it an invaluable asset for businesses aiming to maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Tube Laser Cutting
One of our larger projects involved tube laser cutting, amongst a whole load of other processes such as flatbed laser cutting, box section laser profiling and also cutting circular hollow section and angle.
We manufactured pallets for transportation purposes for a large petrochemical company. Since it is imperative for these pallets to withstand impacts at certain temperatures, we worked with a high spec material (up to K2) to meet our client’s specifications and to ensure that the product is safe for use. This material is tested to -20 degrees at 40 joules, to determine what energy the material is capable of absorbing before it reaches fracture point. Once we receive certification that the material meets all requirements, we move forward with processing.
Laser Cutting Box Section
Components were produced for this isolated leg press by laser cutting box section. Our laser cutting machines allow us to easily cut tube and square box sections. Here, accuracy is of the utmost importance in order to keep users safe and the machine in fine working order. This method also allows clients to tab and slot box sections which improve the speed of the manufacturing process, which avoids setting out measurements and removes the need for jigging and tooling.
Folding
Our 7-axis machine allows us to create complex folds, in minimal lead times, so that we can deliver your parts to you in impressive timeframes.
Mild steel is often used within the engineering and fabrication industry, in order to keep costs low wherever possible. We laser cut to our client’s exact requirements and fold the materials into shape using our press brake machine. The client will then paint the parts before dispatching to their customers.
However, producing parts for the engineering and fabrication sector isn’t all balustrades and cappings.. a slightly different project we’ve manufactured components for recently really demonstrates the vast capabilities of our amazing laser cutting machines.
We worked with a company that specialises in decoration and design for venue unveilings, providing mild steel strings, which were later lit up at the Unit London art gallery. We think it looks spectacular, if we may say so ourselves!
We’ve also contributed to the development of BBC Cardiff, Cheltenham Racecourse, the redevelopment of Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol, and the redevelopment of Anfield, home of Liverpool FC – producing steel balustrades, metal components and decorative pieces.
Get in touch
Need help or a quote?
SSC Laser, Hangar 5 New Road, Hixon, Stafford, ST18 0PJ
sales@ssclaser.co.uk
01889 270 241
Mon - Thurs : 8am - 5pm
Fri : 8am - 3pm
