Reaching Operational Efficiency Goals in the Manufacturing Industry

Steel Fabrication: How Much Time Is Involved?

14 December 2019

Terrence Hayes

Steel fabrication is an extensive process, and as a result, it's not the type of project you can expect to be completed overnight. However, understandably, when you have a tight deadline, you need your project finished as soon as possible. Learning more about the fabrication process can help you better plan and know what to expect.

Automation

In recent years, automation has begun to play a larger role in the steel fabrication process. With this type of technology, many of the fabrication steps that were completed by a technician are now completed by a robot. Automation is growing in popularity because it produces more precise fabrications that are free of the risk of human error. 

However, more importantly, it's popular because it takes considerably less time to complete a project than when done by hand. Contact the production manager to find out whether or not they perform their fabrication by hand or automation to get a better grasp of how long the project will take.

Heavy Fabrication

The type of project to be completed is another factor that will impact the length of time it takes to perform steel fabrication. Traditionally, heavy fabrication takes longer than traditional projects. 

Heavy fabrication is generally defined as an oversized project or a complex project, such as those with precise designs that involve a number of parts that must move and function together. Given the complexity of these projects, it's safe to assume that it will take much longer to complete your project if this is what you need.

Precise Planning

When it comes to steel fabrication, it's important to remember that the production manager will work hard to meet your deadlines, but there are some things you can do to help ensure you stay on schedule. The best thing to do to go about accomplishing this goal is to have a precise plan. 

For example, spend plenty of time at the drawing board before you bring your design plan to the fabricator so that you don't have to make any last-minute changes that can slow down the project. Sitting down with the production manager and discussing your design plans, as well as, your goals can also help, as the technician can quickly identify any issues within your design plan on the front end to help complete the project faster.  

If you have a steel fabrication project that you need to be completed by a particular deadline, it's important to convey this information to the fabricator you work with. The production manager will be more than happy to work with you, so make certain you make your needs clear. 

For more information, contact companies such as John's Welding and Tool.

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