Computer-aided design (CAD) has revolutionised the bespoke metal fabrication industry. Designers and engineers need no longer rely on technical drawings – precisely, but painstakingly, created by hand – to turn their customer’s bespoke metalwork designs into reality. They can turn, instead, to fast, versatile and sophisticated CAD software. This[...]
The quick answer is yes – for the foreseeable future at least, and beyond this for companies trading with the EU. The main regulatory regime affecting the fabrication and assembly of steel structures is the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), a piece of European Union (EU) legislation that was incorporated into UK law in July 2014. The CPR[...]
When you hire a steel fabrication company to provide structural or architectural metalwork, the aim is to receive a quality service and to complete your project in a cost-effective and timely manner. However, if you want to get the most out of your partnership, it's important to take a constructive and collaborative approach to project management.[...]
When it comes to stairs, there are many kinds to choose from. But which one is right for your building? Different staircases contain different construction materials, form factors, and select quirks that subtly alter the ideal use of each. Whether your staircase is going to be public, private, indoors, or outdoors can also make a huge difference[...]
At GLW Engineering, amongst the many quality steel products we make are bannisters and railings. These simple devices are literal lifesavers, protecting users from falls, drops, and trips on stairwells and high platforms.
Everyone knows that the best contractors must be trustworthy and reliable. They also have to offer a personalised, customer-focused service at a practical cost. However, given that virtually every company will claim to do this, how do you pick the one that is really guaranteed to perform?
Structural Steel Fabrication, Metal Fabrication in Norwich, Handrailing Fabrication
Your railings and 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.
Structural Steel Fabrication, Balustrade Fabrication, Metal Fabrication in Norwich, Handrailing Fabrication
Whether to navigate traffic or provide security, steel 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.
Structural Steel Fabrication, Metal Fabrication in Norwich, Handrailing Fabrication
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.
At GLW Engineering we believe in good quality. That’s why we take our CE rating so seriously, and why we continually invest in new equipment and innovations. However, sometimes there is nothing as good as a timeless staircase, and our recent project for Cambridge University reinforces the importance of finding harmony between appearance,[...]
How To Protect Metal Railings From CorrosionApril 01, 2021 - 04:50 PM
Rust can not only affect the appearance of metal railings, 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 BalustradesMarch 25, 2021 - 04:29 PM
Steel is an excellent choice of metal for balustrades, 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?March 18, 2021 - 04:06 PM
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 MetalworkMarch 11, 2021 - 03:37 PM
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 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 FabricationsMarch 04, 2021 - 03:14 PM
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 object, as[...]
The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You MoneyNovember 13, 2020 - 11:00 AM
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?November 06, 2020 - 11:00 AM
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 ContractorOctober 30, 2020 - 11:00 AM
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 ProjectsOctober 23, 2020 - 11:00 AM
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?October 16, 2020 - 04:48 PM
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,[...]