Metals are the backbone of most fabrication-based industries. The main advantage of metals is their heat resistance which helps them avoid degradation under elevated temperatures. Metals also have improved strength, making them stronger, harder and more durable than most materials. This piece presents some distinct properties of metal fabrications. 

Weld Beads

If your metal fabrication project involves welding, the weld bead is a significant factor. Welding too wide a bead makes the joint unpleasant. At the same time, creating a stitch weld in joints requiring a full weld results in a weak joint. Therefore, ensure you have a way of defining the type of weld beads created in each joint. 

Another factor related to the welded joint is the thickness of the bead. Expert fabricators complete a circumferential bead of the desired shape and aesthetic features. The appearance of the bead determines the quality of the joint. The customers and inspectors often judge the quality of a fabrication project based on the type of joints formed during the welding process. 

Preventing Infection

One of the main advantages of metal inert gas welding and other similar methods is that the weld bead remains uninfected. The shielding gas prevents the molten weld pool from oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen in the atmosphere. If these gases react with the weld pool, they may create issues such as excessive spatter and porosity in the bead. 

In addition, using shielding gases when welding is essential for obtaining quality products even under extreme conditions. Not all metal fabrications occur under controlled factory conditions. If you weld in the field, you may not have control over all situations. The inert gas is a sure way to ensure you replicate the controlled environment ideal for such a fabrication. 

Finishing

Creating a solid structure is only a part of the overall project goals when dealing with metal fabrications. The finishing is an essential selling point. Customers scrutinise the finishing to determine whether a product is suitable for their application even before checking the design, structural attributes and other features. 

Some of the finishing methods include sanding, cleaning and grinding. You may also use a wire brush tied to a power tool to polish your welding beads and deburr them properly. Other finishing methods such as galvanising and anodising must be proper to ensure the longevity of metal fabrications. 

Some distinct properties that define metal fabrications include the weld beads, infection prevention, and finishing. For more information on metal fabrication, contact a professional near you.