If you have shopped around for quotes before on fabricated steel and been surprised with different numbers, here are some practical reasons why they vary. These are the primary factors that influence price:
Material type
Mild steel is always the cheapest option. Stainless steel and bespoke grades are more expensive because the material is pricey to begin with, often difficult and slow to machine/ finish.
Thickness and size
This results in more material waste, as well as extended handling time due to thicker plate and larger sections or longer lengths. In the workshop, heavy things will also need to be raised and lowered.
Complexity of cutting and forming
A simple straight cut is cheaper to manufacture than fancy profiles, tight radii, multiple bends or lots of drilled holes. For more information on a Fabrication Company Gloucester, visit https://www.mber.uk/steel-services/fabrication-gloucester
Tolerances and precision
If features are required to align on-site (e.g., holes in an assembly of bolted parts) or for repeated production runs, tighter tolerances will require more precise setup, inspection and sometimes rework at the site with additional trouble – so producing means lower costs if tolerated intervals allow certainty from component-to-component. That extra accuracy adds time.
Welding and assembly time
If there are other welds, lousy joints or heavier materials to weld then it can take longer. Others require grinding welds flush to the base material in order to get a better looking part, which also adds labour.
Finish and corrosion protection
It will cost more to prime, paint or powder coat or even gallianise. Steelwork outside generally requires more protection so surface prep (e.g. blast) can be a major component of the cost.
Access, delivery, and installation
Cost will increase if the site has limited access, restricted working hours or requires specialist lifting (HIAB / crane / scaffold/lift) You also need to consider distance and delivery requirements.
