Stainless Steel Fabrication

Stainless steel fabrication is the process of transforming stainless steel sheet metal into custom-designed components and structures.

This versatile material offers a unique combination of strength, aesthetics and exceptional resistance to corrosion, making it a popular choice across many sectors. The metal fabrication industry utilises various techniques to manipulate stainless steel.

At Yorkshire Laser, we leverage our expertise and cutting-edge machinery to deliver a vast array of stainless steel fabrications, including:

• Enclosure panels for electrical and mechanical equipment
• Cladding for architectural applications
• Ducts and pipework for ventilation and fluid handling systems
• Medical equipment components requiring a sterile and hygienic surface
• Automotive and transportation parts needing to withstand rigorous conditions

This represents just a fraction of the possibilities. We work closely with our clients to understand their specific fabrication requirements and translate them into high-quality stainless steel products.

Unlike mild steel, stainless steel contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium, which reacts with oxygen to form a protective chromium oxide layer. This layer prevents further corrosion, making stainless a superior choice for applications where durability and resistance to rust are paramount.

The manufacturing process for stainless steel typically involves several stages:

• Melting: Raw materials like chromium, nickel, iron, and carbon are melted together in a furnace.
• Refining: The molten metal is purified to remove impurities and achieve the desired chemical composition.
• Casting or hot rolling: The molten metal is shaped into slabs or ingots through casting or by hot rolling them between rollers.
• Cold rolling: The semi-finished product is further rolled at room temperature to achieve the final desired thickness and improve its mechanical properties.
• Annealing: The metal undergoes heat treatment to relieve internal stresses and enhance its workability.
• Finishing: The stainless steel sheet or coil may undergo additional processes like pickling (acid cleaning), polishing, or bead blasting to achieve the required surface finish.

Here at Yorkshire Laser, we source our stainless steel from reputable suppliers who adhere to the highest quality standards. This ensures the material we work with possesses the necessary properties to deliver exceptional performance in your finished product.

While stainless steel offers advantages in many industries, it can present certain challenges during fabrication compared to mild steel. Its increased chromium content makes it harder and less malleable.

Yorkshire Laser has got the expertise and advanced equipment to overcome these challenges with our specialist service. Our capabilities include:

• Laser cutting: This precise technology allows for intricate cuts and shapes in stainless steel sheet metal, minimising waste and heat distortion.
• CNC punching: This computer-controlled process efficiently creates precise holes and features in your stainless steel components.
• CNC bending: Our CNC bending machines ensure accurate and repeatable bends to your exact specifications.
• Welding: Our skilled welders utilise state-of-the-art techniques to create strong and reliable welds in your stainless steel fabrications.
• Powder coating: We offer a comprehensive powder coating service to enhance the aesthetics and corrosion resistance of your stainless steel products.

By combining our fabrication expertise with state-of-the-art machinery, we can transform your designs into high-quality, functional and visually appealing stainless steel products.