General Light Fabrication

James Dunkerley Steels provides bespoke light fabrication in Manchester and across the UK. We use a range of light metal products including aluminium, stainless steel and carbon steel to meet our customers needs.

What is light fabrication?

Light fabrication involves the creation of metal components and structures that are relatively small and lightweight compared to their heavy fabrication counterparts. These fabricated items are typically used in applications such as architectural features, RV components, brackets, toolboxes, and other similar projects. At James Dunkerley Steel our general light fabrication includes cutting, drilling, punching and folding, through to the welding and surface finishing of these products.

How does this differ from heavy fabrication?

Heavy fabrication, as the name suggests, deals with the construction of larger and heavier metal structures, such as industrial storage tanks, gantries, agricultural machinery, and access walkways. The primary distinction lies in the scale and size of the fabricated items. Heavy fabrication involves working with thick steel plates, I-beams, and pipes, using processes like flame cutting, rolling, and specialised welding techniques. In contrast, light fabrication focuses on sheet metal, extruded sections, and thinner materials, utilising processes like laser cutting, CNC punching, press braking, and MIG/TIG welding.

Types of light fabrication

Light fabrication encompasses a diverse range of projects and materials. Let’s explore some of the common types of light fabrication and the capabilities associated with them:

CNC Machining and Sheet Metal Components:

Light sheet metal fabrication often involves the production of sheet metal components and fabricated assemblies using CNC machining techniques. Metals and alloys like mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium are commonly used to create these. Laser cutting is employed to obtain precise profiles, which are then formed, punched, and bent according to the design requirements.

Assembly and Finishing:

In addition to fabricating individual components, light fabrication often involves assembly and finishing processes. Mechanical, electromechanical, and hydro-mechanical assemblies are performed, ranging from simple hinge assemblies to complex structures like patient lifts. Metal finishing services, including surface grinding, deburring, polishing, powder coating, and wet painting, add the final touch to the fabricated products.

Specialised Applications:

Light fabrication serves various industries, including automotive, motorsport, architecture, and beyond. It caters to the fabrication needs of projects such as CCTV cabinets, machine tools, educational machinery, access ramps, wheelchair motorcycles, and architectural features. The versatility of light fabrication allows for the creation of custom-made components to suit specific requirements.

When considering a fabrication shop for your project, it is crucial to assess their expertise and capabilities in light fabrication. While many shops may specialise in light metal fabrication, not all possess the equipment, skill set, and experience required for heavy metal work. Therefore, it’s important to find a reputable shop that can handle light and heavy metal fabrication. These will have the right machinery, skilled personnel, and commitment to quality.

General light fabrication plays a vital role in the manufacturing industry, providing precise and intricate metal components for a wide range of applications. By understanding the differences between light and heavy fabrication, you can better identify which category suits your project’s requirements. Whether you need architectural features, RV components, or custom brackets, a reliable fabrication shop with expertise in light fabrication, such as James Dunkerley Steels, can offer the necessary services and ensure the successful completion of your project.

If you have any questions or would like any information or advice on our general light fabrication services which we offer. Then we are open from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm Monday to Friday, so please contact our sales team and we’ll be happy to assist.