There are steel fabrication companies in nearly every American state, with projected industry growth of about 6% in the coming years. Meanwhile, innovative technologies, automation, and advanced machining techniques have made the CNC manufacturing sector extremely competitive across the globe. And although that’s great for business, it can also make the average project manager’s job a living nightmare.
How to find a reputable steel fabricator in 5 easy steps
Most large-scale metal fabrication projects require an expert’s touch to get it right. That’s because many of the machines, tools, and techniques used to manufacture steel are heavy-duty and potentially dangerous. However, that element of danger may discourage hopeful project managers who don’t realize how helpful a skilled machinist can be.
By finding a reputable CNC facility with large and small metallurgy capabilities, you essentially reduce your risk on several fronts while seeing your design concepts turn into realities. So, here’s how to have a more fruitful search when looking for a dependable steel fabricator:
Step #1: Find out which grades of steel the facility uses.
Step #2: Determine the quality of the shop’s machines and tools.
Step #3: Calculate the cost of labor and materials.
- Parts with complex geometries typically cost more to produce.
- Your chosen steel grade may change the overall fee.
- The required tools also affect how much money you spend.
Talk to a shop expert to get more information on the total price of your project.
Step #4: See what kind of prototyping they can provide.
Step #5: Review their specialty services.
BONUS STEP: Submit information to get a quick project estimate and timeline.
Your manufacturing concepts deserve special attention from a steadfast and trailblazing partner. So for even better results, try to work with a steel fabrication company that’s considered a pioneer in their field.
Tips for starting a new project with a steel fabrication company
It’s easy to feel stuck when choosing the right steel fabrication company. So, here are some quick tips to help you take off running:
- Try to gain a general understanding of the CNC steel machining process.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re concerned about something.
- Remain open to using different materials and/or inventive techniques.
- Ask a machinist how you can save even more money on labor, parts, and materials.
Steel fabrication can be pretty expensive, especially if you approach the project with little knowledge and no basis of comparison. That means you must hold these companies accountable with your savvy choices and refusal to accept anything but the best.
Cut to the chase
Let the experts at Pioneer Cuts turn your raw material into something truly marketable. With a quick 6-hour project quote, you can take advantage of our intuitive software and advanced machines to develop precision steel parts at an impressive pace. Contact one of our 12 CNC machining experts today and enjoy the convenience of a full-service machine shop that’s affordable, accessible, and available when you need it the most.