When it comes to sheet metal fabrication, we know that customers often have a lot of questions, whether they’re new to the industry or seasoned professionals looking for a reliable partner. At Shearfab, we pride ourselves on offering not only high-quality fabrication services but also clear communication, transparency, and support at every stage of a project.
With full transparency in mind, we’ve put together the answers to the top 10 most commonly asked questions about sheet metal fabrication, our manufacturing processes, and the way we operate at Shearfab.
- What certifications does Shearfab hold, and why do they matter?
We’re certified to ISO 9001:2015 and BS EN 1090 Execution Class 2, which means our quality management systems and structural steel processes are audited and fully compliant. This gives customers peace of mind that every project is delivered to consistently high standards.
- What materials do you work with, and how do they differ?
We work with mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium, each offering unique benefits:
- Mild steel: Cost-effective and easy to machine and weld.
- Stainless steel: Highly durable, corrosion-resistant, and hygienic.
- Aluminium: Lightweight yet strong, resistant to corrosion, and often chosen for applications where reduced weight is critical.
- What fabrication services do you provide?
Shearfab are a fully integrated manufacturer, one stop shop. Concept through to delivered products. Our services cover the entire process, from CNC punching, plasma cutting, bending to welding, powder coating, and final delivery.
- What types of products can you fabricate?
We’ve produced everything from MCC (Motor Control Center) carcasses, (verified to BSEN 61439-2), enclosures, cabinets, and support frames to stairways, handrails, and platforms. If it can be made from sheet metal, chances are we can fabricate it. We also fabricate a full range of standard telecommunication products.
- What is DfMA, and how does it benefit my project?
DfMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly) is a smart approach that ensures your design is optimised for efficient production and assembly. The result? Less waste, lower costs, and faster turnaround, without compromising quality. We provide the MCC carcase, DfMA Plinth, legs, platforms, access stairs.
- What are your powder coating capabilities?
Our 3,000 sq ft powder-coating and wet-spray facility includes automated pre-treatment (phosphate), 3 spray booths, large curing ovens (up to 4m X 3.5m X 3.5m), and controlled environments. This ensures a durable, flawless finish on every project.
- Which industries do you serve?
We work across a wide range of sectors, including telecommunications, water utilities, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, automotive, petrochemical, energy, data centres, and nuclear industries.
- What sets your facility apart?
Shearfab operates from a 33,000 sq ft facility, equipped with the latest CNC machinery, welding bays, plasma cutters, and powder-coating ovens. We also run our own delivery fleet, ensuring products arrive safely and on time.
- How do you maintain consistent quality?
Our processes are backed by strict ISO 9001:2015 systems, regular internal audits, and ongoing staff training. By keeping all services in-house and managing our own logistics, we control quality from start to finish. Continued investment in our apprentice program ensures we are continually investing in the next Shearfab generation.
- Do you provide bespoke solutions?
Absolutely! We are extremely focused on customer satisfaction and are proud to work with our customers to ensure we match their exact requirements.
At Shearfab, we combine technical expertise, certified processes, and decades of experience to ensure every client gets a solution that’s reliable, efficient, and built to last.
If you’d like to discuss your next project, get in touch with our team.