Plate Fabrication
Plate fabrication cuts, bends, rolls and welds thick steel plate, typically 6 mm and above, into heavy components such as base frames, housings, tanks, hoppers and machine structures. It combines profile cutting, heavy bending or rolling, welding and machining.
What it is
Plates are profile cut (plasma, oxy-fuel or laser), bent or rolled where needed, fitted up and welded to drawing. Critical faces and holes are often machined after welding and stress relieving for accuracy.
Weld procedures, joint preparation and distortion control are key parts of heavy plate work.
Typical applications
- Machine base frames and beds
- Gearbox and pump housings
- Tanks, hoppers and chutes
- Heavy brackets and lifting lugs
- Rolled shells and cylinders
Suitable materials
- Structural steel (IS 2062 E250/E350)
- Stainless steel
- Aluminium
- Hollow sections and pipes
- Wear-resistant plate
Points to consider
- Machine critical surfaces after welding; welding distorts plate.
- Stress relieve large weldments before precision machining.
- Specify weld sizes and any NDT (DP, MPI, UT) requirements.
- Standard plate thicknesses keep cost and lead time down.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between sheet and plate fabrication?
Plate fabrication works with thicker material, typically 6 mm and above, using heavier cutting, bending and welding processes.
Can fabricated plate structures be machined?
Yes. Base frames and housings are commonly machined after welding and stress relieving.
Do you provide weld testing?
NDT such as dye penetrant, magnetic particle or ultrasonic testing can be arranged when specified.