---
title: GLW Engineering Blog | Geoffrey White (3)
description: Check out our blog for the latest news and updates and learn more about the world of steel fabrication! (3)
---

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# The GLW Engineering Blog

## Geoffrey White

### Recent Posts

[Structural Steel Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication), [Metal Fabrication in Norwich](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/metal-fabrication-in-norwich), [Plasma Cutting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/plasma-cutting)

## [What Is Metal Fabrication?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-is-metal-fabrication)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/What%20is%20Metal%20Fabrication.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-is-metal-fabrication)

Metal fabrication is an umbrella term used to describe the creation of a component, part or structure, out of metal. [Metal fabrication](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/about-us/) typically involves manipulating raw materials, in the form of sheet metal, metal billets, bars or rods, through one or more processes – including, but by no means limited to, cutting, bending and assembly – to[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-is-metal-fabrication) July 02, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Structural Steel Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication), [Handrailing Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication)

## [The Importance Of Finishes On Metal Handrails](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/importance-of-finishes-on-metal-handrails)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/The%20Importance%20Of%20Finishes%20On%20Metal%20Handrails.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/importance-of-finishes-on-metal-handrails)

Handrails are primarily a critical safety feature, a way for people to move safely up and down flights of stairs or steps, particularly in cold or wet weather when the surface under their feet may be slippery.

Handrail manufacturing is governed by [health and safety legislation](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/legal-height-requirements-for-railings-in-the-uk) with regulations defining aspects such as their position and height.[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/importance-of-finishes-on-metal-handrails) June 25, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Structural Steel Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication), [Metal Fabrication in Norwich](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/metal-fabrication-in-norwich), [Plasma Cutting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/plasma-cutting)

## [3 Stainless Steel Finishing Options](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/stainless-ateel-finishing-options)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/3%20Stainless%20Steel%20Finishing%20Options.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/stainless-ateel-finishing-options)

[Stainless steel](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/stainless-steel/) is a hard, strong, ductile material, which is easily fabricated and modified, with excellent resistance to corrosion. Consequently, stainless steel is suitable for a variety of structural and decorative applications in the building sector and elsewhere, but surface finish remains an important consideration.

The majority of[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/stainless-ateel-finishing-options) June 18, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Security Gates](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates), [Security Gates & Barriers](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates-barriers)

## [What Should Be Considered When Designing Security Barriers And Bollards?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-to-consider-when-designing-security-barriers-and-bollards)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/What%20Should%20Be%20Considered%20When%20Designing%20Security%20Barriers%20And%20Bollards.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-to-consider-when-designing-security-barriers-and-bollards)

Whether you’re a residential or business customer, [security barriers and bollards](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/security-barriers-bollards/) are your first line of defence when protecting your property and possessions. Once the preserve of high-class car dealers to thwart thefts from their forecourts, crash barriers and bollards are now commonplace.

They prevent unauthorised entry onto a property, protect[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-to-consider-when-designing-security-barriers-and-bollards) June 17, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Structural Steel Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication)

## [What Are The Advantages Of Interclamp?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/advantages-of-interclamp)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/Legal%20Height%20Requirements%20for%20Railings%20in%20the%20UK.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/advantages-of-interclamp)

Handrails, metal fences and barriers play an important role for businesses, protecting customers and property, so strength and durability are vital. [Welding the parts of these structures](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/steel-framework/) is one option but this increases the time and cost of fabrication as well as complicating on-site assembly.

Interclamp, however, offers a reliable and[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/advantages-of-interclamp) June 08, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Handrailing Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication), [Steel Staircase](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/steel-staircase)

## [When Would You Use A Grained Finish On Stainless Steel?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/when-to-use-grained-finish-on-stainless-steel)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/When%20Would%20You%20Use%20A%20Grained%20Finish%20On%20Stainless%20Steel.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/when-to-use-grained-finish-on-stainless-steel)

Regardless of whether stainless steel is for commercial or domestic use, in decorative or structural elements, the surface finish is a critical component.

A grained, or brushed, finish is achieved by creating parallel lines of rough ‘grains’ on a [stainless steel surface](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/stainless-steel/), in one direction only. The grain makes the surface less susceptible to[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/when-to-use-grained-finish-on-stainless-steel) June 03, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating)

## [Are There Any Limitations On Powder Coating Colours?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/are-there-limitations-on-powder-coating-colours)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/Are%20There%20Any%20Limitations%20On%20Powder%20Coating%20Colours.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/are-there-limitations-on-powder-coating-colours)

[Powder coatings](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/powder-coating/) create protective and decorative finishes on metals. Due to its high quality and durability, powder coating is a popular choice for many different applications.

The colour selection is virtually unlimited with a variety of finishes available including fluorescent, glossy, iridescent, high gloss and glitter. Also, colours tend to[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/are-there-limitations-on-powder-coating-colours) June 02, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Structural Steel Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication), [Steel Staircase](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/steel-staircase)

## [What Types Of Staircase Make The Best Use Of Steel Fabrication?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-types-of-staircase-make-the-best-use-of-steel-fabrication)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/What%20Types%20Of%20Staircase%20Make%20The%20Best%20Use%20Of%20Steel%20Fabrication.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-types-of-staircase-make-the-best-use-of-steel-fabrication)

We all use [staircases](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/different-type-of-staircase-design), generally without giving too much thought to their design and structure. Yet any staircase must fulfil at least two primary requirements: First, and most important, it must be fit for purpose – i.e. function as and when required, and provide essential safety and security so that users are not exposed to undue risk of[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-types-of-staircase-make-the-best-use-of-steel-fabrication) May 04, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating)

## [Which Metals Are Compatible With Powder Coating?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/types-of-powder-coating-on-metal)

[![](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/Which%20Metals%20Are%20Compatible%20With%20Powder%20Coating.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/types-of-powder-coating-on-metal)

Where there is a compatible metal surface, powder coating is an economic and eco-friendly alternative to liquid-based paints. The [benefits of powder coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/benefits-of-powder-coating-your-wheels) include the creation of a hard, long-lasting surface, offering solid resistance to heat and chemicals, as well as protection against corrosion and extreme weather.

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/types-of-powder-coating-on-metal) May 01, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[Insider](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/insider)

## [GLW Engineering COVID-19 Update: Business As Usual, As Far As Possible](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/glw-engineering-covid-19-update)

[![GLW Engineering COVID-19 Update: Business As Usual, As Far As Possible](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/GLW%20Engineering%20COVID-19%20Update%20-%20Business%20As%20Usual%2c%20As%20Far%20As%20Possible.png) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/glw-engineering-covid-19-update)

During this difficult period for Britain and the world, we at GLW Engineering will remain committed to delivering the same custom-built, quality steel fabrications that we always have. Components and architectural commissions can still be purchased from GLW, although implementation may, of course, have to wait until Q4 2020 (at the earliest).[...]

[Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/glw-engineering-covid-19-update) April 30, 2020 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white)

[1](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/1) [2](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/2) [3](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/3) [4](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/4) [5](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/5)

[...](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/8) [14](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/14)

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### Latest Posts

- [![How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-railing.jpg "How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion") **How To Protect Metal Railings From CorrosionApril 01, 2021 - 04:50 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-protect-metal-railings-from-corrosion)
  
  
  
  Rust can not only affect the appearance of [metal railings](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-guide-to-railings-handrails), but also their structural integrity, posing a potential safety hazard to users. It isn’t just visible corrosion you need to watch out for. If appropriate preventive steps are not taken, rusting may even occur from the inside, seriously compromising the strength of the railings and causing[...]
- [![How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusty-railing.jpg "How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades") **How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel BalustradesMarch 25, 2021 - 04:29 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-avoid-rust-on-your-steel-balustrades)
  
  
  
  [Steel is an excellent choice of metal for balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/suitable-type-of-metal-for-outdoor-railings-and-handrails), as it offers decent resistance to rust and tarnishing as well as an eye-catching appearance that is both sleek and contemporary. However, despite its weather resistant properties, steel is not totally free from corrosion, particularly if it is poorly maintained.
- [![Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-balustrades.jpg "Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?") **Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?March 18, 2021 - 04:06 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/aluminium-or-steel-balustrades-sustainable-option)
  
  
  
  When you’re choosing balustrades, handrails, and railings for a project, there are many reasons why you may opt for one material over another. For example, you may prioritise appearance, durability, corrosion resistance, or cost, with the decision likely to be influenced by factors such as the location of the metalwork, the environmental[...]
- [![3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusted-metal-blasting.jpg "3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork") **3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your MetalworkMarch 11, 2021 - 03:37 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/3-ways-that-shot-blasting-can-improve-your-metalwork)
  
  
  
  Shot blasting is an abrasive ‘blast’ surface treatment that uses round metal shots that are propelled under high velocity,[ commonly to polish a metal substrate, to strengthen it, or to repair damaged metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/refreshing-equipment-with-shot-blasting) by closing cracks or tiny tears. The force required to propel the particles is achieved using a centrifuge or wheel, spun at high[...]
- [![Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/paint-cans.jpg "Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications") **Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel FabricationsMarch 04, 2021 - 03:14 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/paint-vs-powder-coating-for-steel-fabrications)
  
  
  
  Surface finishing is vital for coating reactive metals such as steel. Without a suitable finish, oxidation can cause rust to form, which is not only unsightly but also threatens to weaken the structure, hastening its premature failure. Surface coatings are, therefore, more than just a way to improve the aesthetics of a [steel fabricated ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/steel-staircase-fabrication-guide)object, as[...]
- [![The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/filipa-saldanha-TtOdr8tYtUU-unsplash.jpg "The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money") **The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You MoneyNovember 13, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-latest-trends-in-laser-welding-and-how-it-can-save-you-money)
  
  
  
  With the rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in recent years, many aspects of manufacture and fabrication will likely be revolutionised in the not-too-distant future. The fully automated laser welding machine, for example, could be on the horizon sooner than you think: able to decide for itself where and how to weld, to identify[...]
- [![Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/daniel-smyth-03TaAgmtXwM-unsplash.jpg "Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?") **Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?November 06, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/manufacturing-or-fabrication-what-are-the-differences-and-do-they-matter)
  
  
  
  To many non-specialists, manufacturing and fabrication are simply two workshop-based processes that use various techniques to assemble or produce metal products. Often, the two terms are used interchangeably, with little awareness of the differences. While many of the methods used in manufacturing and fabrication may be similar, the difference[...]
- [![How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/glenn-hansen-VW4xiLRr-do-unsplash.jpg "How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor") **How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication ContractorOctober 30, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-guarantee-quality-results-from-your-welding-metal-fabrication-contractor)
  
  
  
  The quality of the weld is extremely important in any fabrication project, as it guarantees the integrity, durability, and longevity of any structure. Quality control checks during and after welding are vital to ensure that high standards have been achieved. Any weakness in the weld, from tiny holes to splits or cracks, could be disastrous in the[...]
- [![Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/craig-davis-sL0TGOevb78-unsplash.jpg "Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects") **Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication ProjectsOctober 23, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/fabrication-using-sheet-metal-why-thickness-matters-for-metal-fabrication-projects)
  
  
  
  The fabrication of sheet metal is a highly specialised task, requiring expert knowledge, skills, and equipment. If you’re planning to outsource the architectural steelwork for a civil engineering, commercial, or construction project, it’s vital to employ the services of a competent fabricator who can guarantee high-quality finishing that complies[...]
- [![What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/chain-4239167_1920.jpg "What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?") **What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?October 16, 2020 - 04:48 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-are-the-most-effective-corrosion-prevention-coatings)
  
  
  
  Traditional galvanisation and newer hot zinc spray technologies are standard anti-corrosion treatments for vulnerable metals. However, they may not always be desirable or even necessary. Several other corrosion-resistant treatments are found in the form of coatings. The suitability of these will depend on several factors, such as aesthetics,[...]

### Recent Posts

### Posts by Topic

- [Structural Steel Fabrication (44)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication)
- [Powder Coating (31)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating)
- [Handrailing Fabrication (15)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication)
- [Shot Blasting (13)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting)
- [Metal Fabrication in Norwich (12)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/metal-fabrication-in-norwich)
- [Grit Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/grit-blasting)
- [Soda Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/soda-blasting)
- [Insider (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/insider)
- [Sand Blasting (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting)
- [Abrasive Blast Cleaning Methods (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/abrasive-blast-cleaning-methods)
- [Balustrade Fabrication (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/balustrade-fabrication)
- [Hot Zinc Spraying (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/hot-zinc-spraying)
- [Plasma Cutting (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/plasma-cutting)
- [Security Gates (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates)
- [Steel Staircase (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/steel-staircase)
- [Blasting Methods (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/blasting-methods)
- [Security Gates & Barriers (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates-barriers)
- [Welding (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/welding)
- [Traditional Galvanising (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/traditional-galvanising)
- [Vacancies (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/vacancies)
- [Bicycle Park (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/bicycle-park)
- [Trolleys (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/trolleys)

[see all](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/3#)

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