Have you ever wondered what exactly custom metal fabrication is used for? With its ability to create tailored metal components and structures, the possibilities are endless. From hand railings to industrial equipment, custom metal fabrication delivers specialised solutions across countless industries. With this handy guide, you’ll discover some of the most common and creative uses of custom metal fabrication. From architectural features to custom enclosures, we’ll showcase the versatility of this process. You’ll gain insight into how custom metal fabrication can bring your unique visions to life. So read on and let your imagination run wild with the capabilities of custom metalwork.
Architectural and Structural Components
Custom Staircases
Custom staircases are a great way to make a statement in any building. Metal fabrication allows you to create one-of-a-kind staircases tailored to your specific space and needs. Want a spiral staircase? No problem. Curved steps? We can do that too. Metal stairs can be designed to suit any style from sleek and modern to ornate and decorative.
Structural Steel Beams
For large structures, steel beams provide essential support and framework. Metal fabrication is used to cut and weld beams to precise specifications based on the building plans. Steel beams can span greater distances than wood and support significantly more weight, allowing for open floor plans and fewer columns. They are also highly resistant to warping, rotting, and pest damage.
Decorative Facades and Accents
Custom metal fabrication allows architects and designers to create signature accents that give buildings a unique character. Facades, canopies, railings, and cladding can all be crafted from metal to enhance a building’s appearance and style. Perforated metal panels, for example, provide visual interest while still allowing light and air to pass through. Metal accents are limited only by your imagination.
Whether for architectural support or pure aesthetics, custom metal fabrication unlocks a world of possibility for distinctive and long-lasting building components. With the right design and high-quality fabrication, metal elements can transform the functionality and beauty of any space.
Interior Design and Decor
Lighting
Custom metal fabrication allows you to create one-of-a-kind light fixtures and chandeliers. Whether you want an industrial look with exposed beams or a more delicate design with intricate metalwork, the options are endless. Have a vision for a stairwell sconce or foyer pendant light? Metal fabrication can bring your unique lighting concepts to life.
Decor Accents
Metal artwork and sculptures are popular home decor accents that often require custom metal fabrication. Maybe you have an idea for a freestanding metal screen, decorative wall grating or a table centrepiece. Skilled metalworkers can cut, weld, grind and finish metal to achieve the exact look you want.
Hardware
Customised hardware like handles, knobs, brackets and more can be fabricated from metal to suit your specific needs. If you’re looking for hardware that perfectly matches your decor style or dimensions, custom metal fabrication is key. APT’s metalworkers are able to create hardware in a range of styles, sizes, and metal types including stainless steel, brass, copper, and black iron.
With custom metal fabrication, you’re limited only by your imagination. Whether you need a one-of-a-kind chandelier, a decorative metal wall sculpture or simply matching hardware, skilled metalworkers can bring your vision to life using cutting, welding, grinding and finishing techniques. For custom metal projects of any size or complexity, APT has the experience and expertise to deliver tailored solutions to meet your needs.
Industrial and Manufacturing Equipment
Machine Frames and Enclosures
Custom metal fabrication is essential for constructing the frames and enclosures that house industrial equipment. The size, shape and material of these structures are tailored to the specific dimensions and requirements of the machinery they contain. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Aluminium is also commonly used when weight is a concern.
Tooling and Fixtures
To improve efficiency and productivity, many manufacturing processes rely on custom tooling and fixtures made of metal. These include jigs to hold parts in place, gauges to check that parts meet specifications, moulds to shape materials into the desired form, and stamps or dies to cut or form sheet metal. The tooling and fixtures are designed around the particular parts or materials they are meant to shape, form or manipulate.
Conveyor Systems
Conveyor belts and the structures that support them are also commonly fabricated from metal. Conveyor systems are used in manufacturing and warehouses to automatically transport materials, parts or finished products between different stages of a process. The belts and frameworks are custom built to suit the sizes and weights of the items being conveyed and the required speed of transport.
Whether for heavy-duty industrial equipment or highly specialised tooling, custom metal fabrication provides tailored solutions essential to productivity and efficiency. Skilled metalworkers are able to construct the frames, enclosures, tooling, fixtures and conveyor systems needed for manufacturing processes of all kinds.
Marine and Aerospace
Within marine and aerospace industries, custom metal fabrication is crucial for building essential components that can withstand harsh operating conditions.
Hull plating and bulkheads
The hulls and bulkheads of ships and submarines are constructed using steel or aluminium plates that are cut, bent, and welded together. Custom metal fabricators work closely with naval architects to translate specifications into the curved plates needed for the vessel.
Aircraft frames and parts
Aluminium alloys are commonly used for aircraft frames, wings, and other parts because they are lightweight yet durable. Metal fabricators cut sheets and tubes of aluminium to precise specifications, then weld and rivet them together. They also produce other aircraft components like landing gear, control surfaces, and engine mounts.
Propellers and turbines
Propellers and turbine blades convert the energy of engines into thrust. Fabricators forge and machine high-performance alloys like nickel alloys into the complex shapes required. Blades are carefully balanced to minimise vibration.
Fuel tanks
Aircraft and spacecraft require specially designed fuel tanks that are impact-resistant, non-corrosive, and able to withstand high pressures. Metal fabricators form tank shells and baffles from aluminium or stainless steel, then weld them together and install necessary valves, pumps, and piping. Rigorous testing ensures there are no leaks before the tanks go into service.
For projects in harsh operating environments, custom metal fabrication is essential for success and safety. Marine and aerospace industries in particular rely on highly specialised components tailored to their needs, produced by expert fabricators using state-of-the-art techniques and technology. The end results are vessels, vehicles and parts that push the limits of performance.
Signage and Displays
Custom metal signs are an excellent way to attract attention and convey information about your business. Metal signs are durable and long-lasting, so they make a great investment for brand awareness and advertising.
Custom Business Signs
Having a custom business sign made of metal, like aluminium or steel, is a great way to display your company logo and information. Metal signs can be cut and shaped however you like, then powder coated in your business colours. They are perfect for mounting on storefronts, in parking lots, or at building entrances. Customers will instantly recognize your brand when they see a metal sign.
Product Displays
Showcase your products in an eye-catching way with custom metal displays. Displays can be built to your exact specifications, with specialised shelving, racks, and product holders. Get a display case with sliding glass doors to keep products secure while still prominently displaying them. Freestanding metal racks are great for bigger products. The options are endless with custom metal fabrication.
Exhibit Booths
Make a statement at trade shows and events with a custom metal exhibit booth. Exhibit booths provide the perfect opportunity to represent your brand and engage with customers. A metal booth will convey a sleek, high-quality image. Have your logo laser cut into an aluminium wall panel or get spotlights and shelving built in. A custom booth is an investment that will serve you well for years at multiple events.
Custom metal fabrication allows you to create signage, displays, and exhibits tailored to your exact needs. When you want to make a lasting impression, metal is the material that will get you noticed. With custom metal fabrication, the only limit is your imagination!
Medical and Laboratory Equipment
Custom Medical Device Housings and Frames
For medical devices, custom metal fabrication is key to providing tailored housings and frames. Whether it’s an MRI machine, X-ray equipment or other diagnostic tools, the housing has to precisely fit the internal components. Metal fabrication specialists work with hospitals and healthcare companies to design and build housings and frames specific to their needs. The materials have to meet strict hygienic standards while also being durable. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its ability to withstand frequent cleaning and sterilisation.
Laboratory Benches and Equipment Stands
In research labs, everything needs a place. Custom metal fabrication is essential for designing and constructing benches, stands, racks and other equipment holders tailored to the lab’s specific instruments and workspace. Stainless steel and aluminum are good options as they are non-reactive and easy to clean. The equipment stands and benches have to be extremely stable and secure to avoid any tipping or shifting of expensive and sometimes hazardous materials.
Sterilisation and Storage Units
Proper sterilisation and storage are crucial in medical and laboratory settings. Custom sterilisation and storage units, like autoclaves, drying cabinets and freezers are fabricated based on the dimensions of the equipment and instruments they need to hold. They must meet strict requirements to keep contents sterile, contained and organised. Stainless steel is the norm for its ability to withstand high temperatures and frequent cleaning.
Whether built for a small research lab or a major hospital, custom metal fabrication provides tailored and purpose-built solutions for the medical and laboratory fields. The fabricated products have to meet the highest standards for hygiene, durability and safety to properly serve their intended functions.
Renewable Energy Installations
Getting your renewable energy project up and running requires custom mounts, frames and supports to securely install critical components. With custom metal fabrication, these structures can be tailored to your exact needs.
Solar panel mounting systems
To capture the sun’s energy, solar panels need to be properly angled and securely fixed in place. Custom metal mounts are fabricated based on factors like your location, solar panel type and local building codes. These mounts are anchored to your roof or installed as ground-based structures to provide sturdy, long-lasting support for your solar panels.
Wind turbine frames
The massive blades and turbines of wind energy systems require heavy-duty frames and towers to keep all parts stable during operation. Custom metal fabrication is used to construct frames that can handle the forces generated by spinning blades and still allow technicians safe access for maintenance. Guyed lattice towers, freestanding lattice towers and tubular towers are some options that can be fabricated to your required hub height.
Energy storage supports
As renewable energy systems become more advanced, energy storage solutions like batteries allow excess power to be captured and used when solar or wind resources are limited. Custom metal fabrication provides sturdy racks, cabinets and frames to safely install and operate these energy storage systems. Proper supports keep batteries secure in place and properly ventilated to maximise efficiency and safety.
Using custom metal fabrication for these applications allows renewable energy installations to be uniquely suited to their location and purpose. With the right design and high-quality fabrication, these metal structures provide durable support for sustainable energy generation for decades to come. Customisation is key to optimising any renewable energy project.
Retail Fixtures and Displays
When it comes to custom metal fabrication for retail spaces, the options are endless. Metalworkers can craft show stopping store fixtures and displays tailored to your brand and products.
Shelving is an essential part of any retail space. Custom metal shelving can be designed to perfectly fit your floor plan and merchandise. Whether you need a simple shelving unit or an elaborate multi-level fixture with integrated lighting, metal fabrication specialists can bring your vision to life.
Eye-catching mannequins and display forms attract customer attention and showcase your products. Custom metal mannequin frames and busts provide a durable base for mannequins in any style. For apparel, metal fabrication allows for adjustable arms and neck posts to display tops and dresses. Specialty display forms can also be crafted for handbags, shoes, and other accessories.
Freestanding metal product displays highlight new or seasonal merchandise. Options include tabletop displays, pedestals, racks, and cubes. Metalworkers can incorporate brand elements like logos or colour accents and adjust sizing to suit your needs.
Checkout counters and service desks leave a lasting impression. A custom metal checkout counter conveys quality and style. Metal fabrication allows for incorporation of wood or stone countertops, cash drawers, belt barriers, and other functional elements. For food service, stainless steel counters and serving stations are durable and easy to clean.
The next time you need retail fixtures or displays, consider custom metal fabrication. With infinite design possibilities and high durability, metal products will serve your business well for years to come. A skilled metal fabrication shop can work with your vision and budget to create solutions that attract customers and showcase your brand.
Food and Beverage Industry
The food and beverage industry relies heavily on custom metal fabrication. From industrial kitchen equipment to specialised storage solutions, metal fabrication helps bring culinary visions to life.
In professional kitchens, almost everything is made of stainless steel for sanitation and durability. Custom metal fabricators work with chefs and restaurant owners to design and build one-of-a-kind stovetops, ovens, ventilation hoods, counters, sinks, and more according to exact specifications. Whether you need a 10-burner stovetop or a counter built to hold an industrial mixer, metal fabricators can create it.
Metal fabrication is also essential for custom keg dispensers, cask racks, and other bar equipment. If you want a copper bar top or a steel cage to display your liquor selection, metal fabricators have the skills and tools to craft it. They can also build custom racks, shelving, and storage solutions to keep your kitchen or bar well organised.
From convection ovens to deep fryers, food trucks and catering companies rely on custom metal fabrication to outfit their mobile kitchens. Fabricators work with limited spaces to design equipment that’s compact yet high-performing. They can also create collapsible components that fold up or stack together when not in use.
Whether you need a one-of-a-kind oven for your restaurant, keg storage for your brewery, or a full kitchen setup for your food truck, custom metal fabrication helps make your culinary dreams a reality. Skilled metal fabricators work with you to understand your needs and bring your vision to life through high-quality, made-to-order designs. The result is equipment tailored to your space and cooking style.
Public Infrastructure
Public infrastructure depends heavily on custom metal fabrication. Things like street furniture, bridges, and public art installations typically require specially designed metal components tailored to the needs of a city or community.
Take street furniture for example. Benches, bike racks, planters, and waste receptacles are usually made of metal and fabricated based on specific municipal requirements. A city may want custom bike racks to match an area’s aesthetics or benches of a certain length. Metal fabrication shops can create these to exact specifications.
Bridges also commonly use fabricated metal parts like handrails, beams, joints and trusses. Municipalities often want bridges to have a distinctive design, so they work with metal fabricators to create unique components. Things like curved handrails, artistic beam structures or trusses can bring a signature look to a city’s bridges.
Many towns and cities also install public art to enhance civic spaces. Sculptures, monuments and installations frequently incorporate fabricated metal elements, especially when an artistic vision calls for an unconventional or complex design. Metal fabricators have the skills and equipment to bring even the most ambitious public art projects to life by creating metal parts that match an artist’s precise needs.
Whether for infrastructure, art or architecture, custom metal fabrication allows communities to make a personalised statement. Next time you’re sitting on a bench, crossing a bridge or enjoying some public art, consider the role that metal fabrication likely played in bringing that feature to fruition based on the unique needs and vision of your town or city. The ability to tailor projects to exact specifications is why custom metal fabrication is so essential for public infrastructure and spaces.
Entertainment and Event Staging
The entertainment industry frequently relies on custom metal fabrication for set pieces, stages, and props. If you’ve ever been to a concert, play, or awards show, you’ve likely seen the results of custom metal work without even realising it.
Stage sets are often constructed using custom metal platforms, staircases, and frames. Metal truss systems provide lighting grids and the infrastructure for spotlights, projections, and other effects. Even seemingly simple set pieces like doors, fences, and facades are typically custom fabricated from metal to suit the specific needs of a production.
For major events, custom metal fabrication is essential for creating an engaging experience. Equipment like pyrotechnics racks, confetti cannons, and CO2 jets are specially made to produce exciting special effects. Some productions require complex machinery for moving set pieces, raising and lowering elements, or achieving other mechanical effects. All of these custom pieces are fabricated from metal to exacting specifications for functionality, safety, and design.
In the entertainment world, appearance and theming are also important. Custom metal fabricators work with production designers to create decorative pieces that capture a certain style or time period. Ornate railings, chandeliers, sconces, and other decorative elements help to create an authentic look and environment for performances. These custom pieces are made to complement the overall visual theme while also meeting the functional needs of a production.
From the infrastructure that supports major productions to the smallest decorative details, custom metal fabrication helps bring entertainment and events to life. The next time you see an eye-catching set design or special effect, think of the custom metal craftsmanship and engineering behind the scenes making the magic happen. The possibilities are endless with the creativity of metal fabricators and the visions of entertainment designers.
Agricultural Equipment
Custom metal fabrication plays an important role in creating equipment for agricultural use. Farmers rely on sturdy, long-lasting equipment to handle livestock, store and process crops, and complete daily chores.
Metal fabricators can construct essential equipment like:
Livestock pens, gates, and chutes to safely contain and direct animals during handling. Metal fabrication allows these structures to be tailored to a farmer’s specific needs and the sizes of their livestock.
Silos and grain bins for crop storage. These massive metal structures keep harvested crops fresh until they’re ready to be sold or used. Metal silos and bins can also be custom built to suit the types and volumes of crops a farmer produces.
Feed troughs, bunks, and conveyor systems to efficiently distribute food to livestock. Custom metal troughs and bunks are built to properly contain different types of animal feed. Conveyor systems make it easier to move and dispense feed, especially for large herds or flocks.
Trailers, carts, and wagons for transporting crops, feed, and equipment around the farm. Heavy-duty metal fabrication is required to construct trailers and wagons that can handle the weight of dense, bulk materials.
Fences and gates to control livestock movement between pastures. Metal fabrication allows fences and gates to be customised for the specific types of animals on the farm.
Metal fabrication provides sturdy, long-lasting solutions for the demanding needs of agricultural work. Custom equipment built for farms helps ensure that crops and livestock are properly handled, stored, and cared for. The ability to customise this equipment for individual farms allows metal fabricators to provide essential tools for farmers to efficiently and effectively operate their agricultural business.
Conclusion
So as you can see, custom metal fabrication is hugely versatile and capable of producing unique solutions for all sorts of applications. Whether you need a one-off bespoke item, small batch production runs or large scale manufacturing, the experienced team at APT can work with you to bring your vision to life. With advanced facilities and expertise across a wide range of processes, they make light work of even the most complex designs. If you’ve got a custom metalwork project in mind, get in touch with APT to find out how metal fabrication can make it a reality. With the right partner by your side, there’s no limit to what you can create.
