What Does a Fabricator Do?

What It Takes to Work in the Metal Fabrication Industry

A metal fabricator is a professional that cuts and shapes metal, which can be either steel or other ferrous metals, that are used in the manufacture of heavy and light structures, or for items which are used every day. Prime examples of heavy structures can include ships, bridges, buildings, and heavy equipment. Light metal fabrication can include the production of auto bodies, chairs, bicycles, or ornamental products.

To be able to cut and shape metal correctly, the fabricator must know how to correctly read and interpret engineers’ drawings and blueprints. They must also know how to use computers, as these are a major part of the fabrication process. Once they understand what is needed to fabricate a piece, they will then use such tools as band saws and cutting torches. And, they may connect pieces using rivets, nuts, and bolts, or bend, twist, and roll pieces into numerous different forms.

The usual route a person will take to becoming a metal fabricator is to train at a technical college. In some countries, these programs will provide several years of training beyond the basic certificate. Before schooling, a person will have worked their way up at a fabrication shop or a manufacturing site, starting from an entry-level position to an apprenticeship.

Anyone looking to work as a fabricator must enjoy working with their hands, in addition to working with blueprints and engineer designs. This work, however, can be hazardous, as the job does call for using sharp, heavy tools, and fire, when welding is involved. Fabricators have lost a finger or two when working in this job. And can experience temporary blindness from the intense light, in addition to getting tiny flecks of metal in their eyes. To avoid this, they must wear protective gear such as safety goggles, coveralls, heavy-duty gloves, steel toe capped boots and face shields.

We hope that you found our metal fabrication blog interesting, to learn more about us, please call R&B Metal Fabrication, LLC based in Melbourne, FL today at (321) 428-5744.