To ensure that we achieve the highest standard of fabrication possible, every stage of the manufacturing process is diligently checked and inspected, from initial design right through to production of the finished project, and again before being dispatched. Even the smallest details are accounted for, and everything must be checked twice to ensure the highest quality result. Quality control protocols and dimension measurement routines are put in place to ensure complete precision, ensuring that each process is executed with exacting attention to detail.

One of the main checks we perform before putting anything into production is to consider the material. The type of material you use can make all the difference to the quality. Before using any material, several factors have to be examined; including the purpose of the product, and any associated environmental issues.

Not only are the components thoroughly checked, but our machines must pass rigorous inspections as well to ensure that they are performing at optimum levels to deliver the highest quality. Checks are carried out daily before starting a task. In addition, complete inspections and tests are conducted on a regular basis by an external body, which are kept logged and dated. The quality checks of components are carried out by the shop floor employees, who are all highly trained and qualified engineers. Before anything is ever finalised, the factory manager checks the products before allowing them to be dispatched.

Below is a list of our sheet metal capabilities; however, if you need more information or have any questions relating to material capabilities, feel free to contact us so that we can discuss your requirements.

• Laser: Maximum sheet size is 3m X 1.5m, the maximum thickness depends on the material. The laser can cut the thickness of all the materials we work with here except plastisol. Please refer to the ‘What sheet metal materials do you offer to work with?’ FAQ for a list of materials.
• Punch: Maximum sheet size is 3m X 1.25m and maximum thickness is 3mm. The forming capabilities are dimple, vent, louvre and forming.
• Bending: Maximum length is 3m for materials up to 3mm and 1.5m for materials from 3mm to 6mm.
Welding:MIG weld Mild Steel, Stainless Steel and Zintec. TIG weld Mild Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium and Zintec. Spot weld up to 3mm for Mild Steel, Stainless Steel and Zintec.
• Deburr Linisher Machine: Maximum thickness is 25mm and maximum width is 1.1m.
• Guillotine: Maximum thickness is 3mm and maximum length is 3m.
• Rollers: Maximum thickness is 6mm and maximum width is 1.5m.
• Bollof: Maximum thickness is 1.5mm.
• Studding: Use of PEM Serter, Avdel and Stud weld tools.

There are a wide range of processes involved in sheet metal fabrication, which are dependent on the required outcome. Our main processes are:

• Laser profiling: This is where our TruLaser 3030 machine cuts a profile with extremely smooth edges from a sheet. It follows the specific path to give you the profile you need. The waste sheet metal skeleton is then recycled.
• Punching: This is where a tool is forced through the sheet at high velocity causing the sheet to become perforated, profiled or formed. Repeating this process then creates the desired pattern.
• Bending: This is where a press brake machine applies tonnage of pressure to a sheet to achieve a desired angle with the help of different press brake tools.
• Welding: This occurs once the components have been through all the other processes (not all of them are always required). Components are joined together to form larger assemblies through a process of MIG, TIG or spot welding.
• Powder Coating: A type of finish coating that is applied as a free-flowing dry powder to give components the finished look. The powder is a mixture of ground resin particles and pigment, which is applied electrostatically and is then cured under heat between 200⁰C and 240⁰C.
• Deburr finishing: This is where the sheet is deburred of any sharp edges. The flat components go through our TIMESAVERS 32 series machine to remove burrs. Components also go through a stage of grinding, polishing and buffing to give them an excellent surface finish to then be sent to customers or before going to be powder coated.
• Fastener Insertion: This is where fasteners are embedded onto a component’s surface. Common fasteners that our machines press in are clinch nuts, clinch studs, weld nuts and weld studs.

There are some other additional processes which may take place during the course of a product being manufactured; for example guillotine cutting, drilling, assembling etc.

The materials we work with here at the Lazenby Group are:

• Mild Steel: 0.7-20mm (CR4 + HR4)
• Stainless Steel: 0.7-20mm
• Aluminium: 0.7-20mm
• Zintec: 0.7-3mm
• Copper: 0.7-8mm
• Brass: 0.7-8mm
• Plastisol: 0.7-1.5mm
• Galvanised: 0.7-4.0 mm

Feel free to get into contact with us if the material or thickness you require is not stated here; we may be able to cater to your needs.

Sheet metal fabrication provides many benefits and advantages. Sheet metals have great durability and malleability. They have a high strength relationship and are strong enough to withstand considerable pressures yet remain malleable.

They can be formed into many shapes, which allows for a wide range of innovative designs. They are recyclable, and sheet metals are resistant to natural threats but are not harmful to the environment. They can also have resistance to some corrosion with the right treatment. Sheet metals are light weight, unlike several other materials, making them highly portable and easy to handle.

They also offer great aesthetics; the seamless finish and options that are provided by sheet metalwork are unmatched. Not only do you get a seamless structure but the option for modification and painting makes it very beneficial.