Complex metal shapes can also be cut with our state-of-the-art, high definition plasma cutter which vaporizes the material with super-heated gas, with a laser cutter which vaporizes the material with a high-powered laser, and with a water jet cutter, which uses a very thin stream of water and abrasive powder to eat away the metal.

Sheets, bars and pipes can be formed by bending and rolling them in specialized machines. In most cases, metal parts can be joined mechanically by screws or rivets, but if a strong and rigid connection is needed, welding is the best joining process. Welding uses metal heated until it is liquid to join the two parts. The hot metal heats up the parts being joined so that they melt together. When the metal cools, the parts are permanently joined.

The advantage of fabrication is that it uses stock material shapes, which are readily available and may already have many of the desired features of the final product. This can also be a disadvantage, since many parts cannot be easily produced from simple cylinders, bars, and sheets of metal.

Smart Machines are experts for custom fabrication in unique applications in addition to routine build-to-print projects. Our facility, tools and skilled personnel make Smart Machines a leader as industrial fabrication specialists.