Steel fabrication involves various manufacturing processes to transform steel components into expansive structures.
This means that structural steel fabrication must be accurate and efficient in order for it to be effective.
However, like any sector, not all is plain sailing within fabrication, and fabricators can meet challenges along the way.
This post looks at some of the most common steel structure problems and solutions to put in place to reduce the risk of these occurring.
Steel fabrication
The processes involved in structural steel fabrication include bending, shaping, welding, forming, and assembling sheets or plates of steel to create various steel structures and products.
These fabrication processes are used in structural steel, bridges, construction, architectural projects, and more.
Using numerous techniques, methods, and equipment, steel fabrication is specific and complex, so you must have the right checks in place to avoid mistakes and errors.
Steel problems
Some of the most common structural steel challenges fabricators encounter include:
Scratching of the steel surface – scratches on the steel surface can lead to corrosion and ruin the appearance of the steel, affecting its strength and reliability. We recommend implementing robust handling procedures and mechanical cleaning methods to avoid this.
Distortion – Steel expands rapidly when heated, which, in some instances, can result in distortion. To avoid this, implement the most appropriate steps during the welding process.
Improper cleaning – before the steel is ready for use, you must remove all surface contamination and imperfections to ensure its integrity.
Some of the most common issues with the steel fabrication process itself include:
Inaccurate measurements
Inaccurate measurements or problems with steel fabrication tolerances typically occur when measurements have been produced and taken manually or using traditional drawing methods.
Yes, these processes are still a part of the fabrication process; however, now, with digital advances, we use technology to ensure precision and accuracy and avoid steel components not fitting together correctly.
For example, CAD designs and 3D modelling increase the level of precision and help to show a visual representation to ensure everything works. Reducing errors and the need for reworks, with CAD technology and modelling you can carry out adjustments with ease to ensure better accuracy and quality when final production starts.
Lack of communication
Multiple stakeholders are often involved during the fabrication process, from architects to engineers, welders, fabricators, contractors, and project managers. Everyone and everything must be coordinated if the project is to be a success.
All key requirements, data, and information sharing are key to avoiding delays and errors.
Complex design changes
Design changes are inevitable but challenging in structural steel fabrication, making it important that you manage revisions and materials specifically and communicate these revisions to all parties concerned.
Applying updates consistently across all documentation and communication will help to save time in the long run and reduce the risk of errors.
Storage problems
Steel components must be stored and handled correctly to avoid damage, which in turn can affect the structural integrity of the steelwork.
Incorrect installation
Things go wrong when instructions aren’t followed, resulting in a poor end product.
Project managers and professional fabricators should conduct regular inspections and checks to combat this issue.
Poor project management
Project management throughout a fabrication process is essential, and this should be effective in ensuring the efficient use of resources to help streamline processes and improve cost efficiencies.
Embracing of technology
Not everyone is open to change, and certainly not the introduction of new technologies. However, by working with technology and learning and developing skills, you, as structural steel contractors, can also improve your processes, tackling challenges with ease.
Helping to keep everything running smoothly, using the right technology can be to a fabricator’s advantage.
Structural steel fabricators
In addition to understanding the common issues within steel fabrication processes, it’s also important to remember that choosing your preferred steel fabricator is of key consideration.
You need to check their:
- Craftsmanship – are they using the right machinery, and is this well maintained in order to produce a high-quality job? Do they meet the latest industry standards, and do they have the right certifications to demonstrate this?
- Attention to detail – structural steel fabrication tolerances must be perfect and exact if you are to avoid structural weaknesses and flaws.
- Level of experience – often, people will choose the cheapest option; however, cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Experience and the quality of work that they can show you are what is better.
A good steel fabricator will work closely with you, taking the time to understand your requests and requirements.
Steel structure problems
Structural steel fabrication tolerances are complex and require precision planning, which is why it’s essential to put the right measures in place to reduce this level of complexity.
At Morfabrication, we use the right technology and communicate with all stakeholders at every stage to ensure accurate, high-quality structural steel components.
We have experience across a range of industrial projects, both large and small, and all of our teams are highly skilled in specific areas of fabrication.
Providing you with accuracy, efficiency, and quality, do you have a steel project coming up that we can support you with?
Call 0191 816 2718 or email our team today on info@morfabrication.com; we’d be happy to help.