While welding in general is a fabrication process where you join two or more pieces of metal by melting them, structural steel welding is a specialized type that's focused on constructing and reinforcing large and complex steel structures.
So, here, welding is not just about joining two pieces; rather, it's combining large structures and making them capable of bearing significant loads. This is why this type of welding must be precise and strictly adhere to the safety and engineering standards.
Are you looking to hire one of the best structural steel welding companies in Melbourne, Australia?
We know how overwhelming it might be. Because there are already hundreds of fabrication companies registered in this country. But the fact is, not every fabricator is capable of handling all the needs of a particular structural steel project.
So, we have come up with a quick guide that lists down the factors to check. Let's dive in.
Popular structural steel welding methods
Manual arc welding
This method uses an electric current for operation, where it creates a super-hot flame between the steel pieces and the welding rod.
This heat can get over 2000 degrees Celsius, melting the steel edges and the rod. The molten metal from the rod fills the gap between the steel parts and when it cools, it forms a strong weld bead. This weld is strong as the original steel and holds the pieces together securely.
Automatic and semi-automatic arc welding
Both methods boost productivity and ensure the welds in the steel structures are strong and reliable. The only difference between manual and automatic arc welding is that the machine uses an uncoated wire reel that helps to perform the weld. Flux is pre-applied and the wire is fed steadily to match the machine's speed.
When compared to the manual method, automatic arc welding is much faster, for example, 5 to 10 times quicker.
The semi-automatic welding method also uses flexible welding wire that comes in tube or flat form with a metal shell thickness ranging from 0.2 to 0.5 mm. You can find the welding flux inside the wire tube that helps with the welding process.
This method is more popular than automatic arc welding for its convenience.
Types of structural steel welding services
Before we learn the factors to consider, check out the different types of structural steel welding services that you might need for your project.
1. Fabrication services
Steel fabrication starts with taking raw steel and turning it into some structure. Here, in the fabrication process, you cut, bend and assemble steel to create large complex structures such as buildings, bridges and more.
The biggest advantage that fabrication services offer is customization. If you have a unique design in mind, you can breathe life into it using this process. Research and hire the company that serves best in providing structural steel design and fabrication services.
2. On-site welding services
Onsite welding services include two main types, such as mobile welding services and emergency and maintenance welding.
Mobile welding services
This structural welding service is performed directly at the location where the welding is needed rather than in a traditional workshop.
For example, let’s say a large structure like a bridge needs repair or maybe a steel beam requires an adjustment. In that case, it's not practically possible to bring it to a workshop. This is where mobile welding comes into the picture.
So, in mobile welding, the team can set up in any remote location or literally any place and repair it. This not only saves time but also keeps the project moving forward without the hassle of any transportation and logistics.
Emergency and maintenance welding services
This type refers to specialised welding services that address urgent repairs and ongoing maintenance of steel structures.
We all know how a small downtime can affect work. So, this welding service helps in minimising downtime and on-site repairs and can handle a wide range of fabrication needs effectively.
Maintenance welding focuses on routine inspections and repairs to keep the steel structures in good shape. For example, if an older steel frame starts to wear and tear, this welding fixes it.
3. Structural repair services
With time, eventually, the structural steel starts to show signs of wear, such as cracks or corrosion. It must be repaired to restore the strength of the structure. There could be multiple factors that could cause this trouble, such as exposure to certain environmental conditions, heavy loads or just being old.
These issues, however small, if left unchecked, can take chances on the entire structure's integrity. So, repairing damaged or corroded steel structures is important.
If the existing structures need a little extra support, especially if they are going to handle more weight or stress than they originally planned, this type of structural steel welding service helps.
In such cases, reinforcement welding adds additional steel or improves connections to ensure the structure can handle any kind of force or weight. For example, you can add extra beams, columns or joints to a steel structure.
By addressing both damage and the need for reinforcement, structural repairs ensure that steel frameworks stay safe, reliable, and up to the task for many years to come.
4. Cutting and drilling services
When it comes to structural steel, precision is everything. So, if you need a piece of steel cut just right, precision cutting services are important as they ensure every component fits perfectly into the larger structure, with clean edges and exact measurement.
While you think drilling is a straight-forward process, remember that drilling in structural steel is all about accuracy. You must place the right holes for secure bolt connections that hold everything together.
Factors to consider while choosing the structural steel welding companies
Do they nod a big yes to customisation?
First, you must expect a detailed technical design. A reputable structural steel fabrication company must take your initial design ideas and work closely with your design team and structural engineers to produce detailed technical drawings.
This ensures that everyone is on the same page and the final product turns out just like you have imagined.
So, check if the company offers valuable input on the best technical solutions, including recommending optimal use of materials, opportunities for optimization and benefits of in-house expertise.
In short, ensure that the company not only builds but also plays a key role in designing and optimising the project from the start.
Check for the safety
Considering this is a crowded market, it's important to check if the structural steel welding company is equipped with safety gear. Because this steel fabrication involves some complex and dangerous cutting, bending, welding and assembly of steel.
Fabricators use tools and equipment that specialise in handling such processes. But while choosing such companies, besides going through the external safety certifications, try understanding the company's safety culture. Check the history of their projects and how they have approached safety.
Take zero chances on quality
Because quality is non-negotiable. So, the next factor to check is the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
Next, go through the quality control measures. Quality control in steel fabrication involves selecting the best materials for the project and applying the right finishes to ensure the steel's durability and checking if the structure is coming out well during the fabrication process.
You can find reliable structural steel suppliers in Melbourne here.
Hire an expert
Skilled structural professionals bring years of experience and specialised knowledge to the table. Because only they can understand the complexities of working with steel. They can cut the steel, bend and weld it as per the industry standards.
Only professionals follow strict quality control measures throughout the fabrication and welding processes.
Plus, structural steel projects must meet specific building codes and regulations of the Australian government. Experts are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that all work complies with local, state and national standards.
Experts offer customised fabrication solutions that meet your project needs. Since structural steel fabrication and welding involve high-risk tasks, they must ensure safety.
Lastly, hiring an expert also reduces the risk of errors that could lead to costly repairs or modifications. Their experience helps spot potential issues and address them before they become problems. This way, experts help you save your precious time and money.
Why hire a local structural steel welding company?
It's best to hire a local company for your structure fabrication and welding needs for many reasons, such as:
They have better understanding of Melbourne's construction environment
In our case, let's assume you want to get a project done in Melbourne. Then, hiring a local company is best because they know the land, the construction challenges and they can tailor their approach to fit the local conditions perfectly.
Additionally, a local company would be Melbourne's building codes and regulations. So you won't deal with compliance issues.
Convenience and accessibility
Whether you need mobile services or emergency repairs, your contractor is just around the corner. You can arrange a quick meeting, get a site visit or make a last-minute change in any case.
The best part is that if something unexpected comes up, a local company can be on-site quickly to address any issues.
Final Words
Remember, structural steel fabrication and welding involve dealing with complex structures. So every detail is important. For instance, even the quality of welding can directly impact the safety, durability and integrity of the structure. So you need a structure steel welding company that pays attention to tiny details if you want to taste success in any construction project. We hope this quick helped you in some way.
Ju Chen is the best local structural steel design and fabrication company, offering welding services for all your structural steel projects. Contact us today!