--- title: GLW Engineering Blog | Geoffrey White (7) description: Check out our blog for the latest news and updates and learn more about the world of steel fabrication! (7) --- Call us: 01945 464 637 [![GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/GLW%20Engineering%20Dec2016/Image/glw-logo21-300x80.png)](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/) # 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), [Handrailing Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication) ## [The Most Suitable Type of Metal For Outdoor Railings and Handrails](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/suitable-type-of-metal-for-outdoor-railings-and-handrails) [![rail](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rail.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/suitable-type-of-metal-for-outdoor-railings-and-handrails) Your [railings and handrails](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-guide-to-railings-handrails) must do more than merely offer support and protection. They must survive rough weather, compliment your architecture, and keep looking good with minimal maintenance. Every metal satisfies these goals in unique ways, allowing project managers to find the precise properties they need from their railing systems. [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/suitable-type-of-metal-for-outdoor-railings-and-handrails) July 26, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Structural Steel Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication), [Balustrade Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/balustrade-fabrication), [Metal Fabrication in Norwich](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/metal-fabrication-in-norwich), [Handrailing Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication) ## [The Top 4 Most Important Considerations When Fabricating Steel Barriers](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/important-considerations-when-fabricating-steel-barriers) [![steel barrier](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/steel%20barrier.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/important-considerations-when-fabricating-steel-barriers) Whether to navigate traffic or [provide security, steel barriers](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-guide-to-security-gates-barriers) are a valuable addition to many public and commercial spaces. Their close cousin – the security gate – is equally important. When fabricating this type of installation, there are a few important dos and don’ts. Let’s take a look. [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/important-considerations-when-fabricating-steel-barriers) July 25, 2019 / 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), [Handrailing Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication) ## [Pros And Cons Of Horizontal Cable Railings](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/pros-and-cons-of-horizontal-cable-railings) [![image 2](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/image%202.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/pros-and-cons-of-horizontal-cable-railings) Horizontal cable railings are a trendy option that’s enjoying a comeback as an alternative to metal, wood or glass barriers in residential and commercial properties. Cable railings are horizontal, twisted wire ropes attached to vertical posts made of metal or wood, with a top guard rail for safety and support. [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/pros-and-cons-of-horizontal-cable-railings) July 24, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating), [Shot Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting), [Sand Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) ## [Alloy Wheels Refurbishment: Powder Coating Vs Spray Painting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/alloy-wheels-powder-coating-vs-spray-painting) [![spray](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/spray.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/alloy-wheels-powder-coating-vs-spray-painting) Refurbishing alloy wheels can give a vehicle a completely [new lease of life.](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/is-it-worth-getting-my-alloy-wheels-powder-coated) One of the questions each workshop owner faces is whether to use [powder coating](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/powder-coating/) or spray painting. Each method comes with advantages and disadvantage for both the shop and the client. Let’s take a closer look at the two approaches. [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/alloy-wheels-powder-coating-vs-spray-painting) July 22, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating), [Shot Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting), [Sand Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) ## [How To Prepare Your Car For Wheel Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/prepare-your-car-for-wheel-powder-coating) [![wheel](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/wheel.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/prepare-your-car-for-wheel-powder-coating) Many car owners opt for alloy wheel powder coating for its [numerous benefits,](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/is-it-worth-getting-my-alloy-wheels-powder-coated) which include good looks and increased durability. Even though the [powder coating process](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/powder-coating/) is straightforward, it requires thorough surface preparation to ensure a good coat. [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/prepare-your-car-for-wheel-powder-coating) July 19, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating), [Shot Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting), [Sand Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) ## [How Long Does Wheel Powder Coating Take?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-long-does-wheel-powder-coating-take) [![image 1](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/image%201.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-long-does-wheel-powder-coating-take) [Powder coating](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/powder-coating/) has numerous advantages over painting which are impossible to overlook. However, it is more time-consuming than a paint job. How long does [wheel powder coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/can-your-wheels-be-powder-coated) really take? [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-long-does-wheel-powder-coating-take) July 18, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Grit Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/grit-blasting) ## [What Surfaces & Applications Benefit From Grit Blasting?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-surfaces-benefit-from-grit-blasting) [![What Surfaces and Applications Benefit from Grit Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/What%20Surfaces%20and%20Applications%20Benefit%20from%20Grit%20Blasting.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-surfaces-benefit-from-grit-blasting) [Grit blasting is a surface preparation method](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-grit-blasting-process-explained) that involves spraying a surface with abrasive grits under high pressure. This blasts away surface contaminants and old paint and prepares a surface for finishing, coating or repainting. Depending on the surface on which the work is being performed, the abrasive media can consist of metallic shards,[...] [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-surfaces-benefit-from-grit-blasting) June 25, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Insider](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/insider) ## [March & April 2019 Project Highlights](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/march-april-2019-project-highlights) [![Residential Wall Railings](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/Residential%20Wall%20Railings.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/march-april-2019-project-highlights) With May 2019 now upon us, its time to take a quick look back at some of our project highlights from the last couple of months! [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/march-april-2019-project-highlights) June 17, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating) ## [Is It Worth Getting My Alloy Wheels Powder Coated?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/is-it-worth-getting-my-alloy-wheels-powder-coated) [![Is It Worth Getting My Alloy Wheels Powder Coated](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/Is%20It%20Worth%20Getting%20My%20Alloy%20Wheels%20Powder%20Coated.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/is-it-worth-getting-my-alloy-wheels-powder-coated) This article is for any car owner who may be considering getting his or her alloy car wheels powder coated. [Our recommendation is, yes, powder coating is a worthwhile investment, which will improve the durability of your alloys, protecting them from scratches and helping them look better for longer.](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/can-your-wheels-be-powder-coated) [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/is-it-worth-getting-my-alloy-wheels-powder-coated) May 22, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [Sand Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) ## [Abrasive Cleaning Alternatives To Sandblasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/abrasive-cleaning-alternatives-to-sandblasting) [![Abrasive Cleaning Alternatives To Sandblasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/Abrasive%20Cleaning%20Alternatives%20To%20Sandblasting.jpg) ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/abrasive-cleaning-alternatives-to-sandblasting) For the cleaning of industrial equipment, there is simply nothing better than abrasive blasting. This process is one of the best ways to remove rust, paint, oil and other surface pollutants from machinery. Sandblasting used to be the most popular form of abrasive cleaning in the UK, but has now been illegal since 1999. This article explores[...] [Read more](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/abrasive-cleaning-alternatives-to-sandblasting) May 21, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) [1](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/1) [...](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/2) [5](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/5) [6](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/6) [7](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/7) [8](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/8) [9](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/9) [...](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/12) [14](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white/page/14) Page 7 of 14 [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c) ### Subscribe to Email Updates [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d) ### 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/7#) Search this site on Google Search Google © Copyright - GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd - Developed by [Viscribe Ltd](http://www.viscribe.co.uk) - [T & C’s](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/t-cs/) - [Privacy](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/privacy/) - [Smartwater](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/smartwater/)