Working with Construction Contractors

Whether you intend to use your piping system for water supply, waste management, gas supply or oil supply, you need to ensure that your piping system is competent enough to support the substance you will be transporting. It is for this reason that sheet metals are preferred due to their strength, durability and lightweight nature. Notably, when you intend to use the services of a sheet metal fabricator, there are two ways in which this may be done: in-field fabrication and installation or shop fabrication. In-field fabrication involves ­­­­­­fabrication at the installation site whereas shop fabrication means that the metal sheets will be fabricated at the manufacturer's factory. Some manufacturers will prefer in-field fabrication, shop fabrication, or use a combination of both. However, regardless of the manufacturer's opinion, the decision lies in your hands. Below is a list of some of the advantages and disadvantages that will accrue to you if you select the on-field fabrication and installation option.

Advantages

1. It is much safer to transport the metal sheets and spools when they are disassembled since chances of damage are reduced. Moreover, it is easier to carry the separate parts as opposed to one full unit.
2. It is easier to correct or recalibrate the pipework at the site when the workers realize they have miscalculated instead of having to return the pipes they had carried back to the shop. When you fabricate the metal sheets as you install them, you will reduce the chances of reworking the fabricated pipes. This will save you time and money.
3. You may add other custom requirements when the metal sheets are fabricated and installed at your construction site as opposed to when you buy already fabricated metal sheets.

Disadvantages

1. It is generally more expensive than having pre-fabricated metal sheets for your pipework.
2. The quality may not be consistent given that the pre-fabricated metal sheets are usually fabricated in a controlled manufacturing environment where excellence is the target. However, for in-field fabrication, you will depend on several variables such as the weather and the individual craftsmanship of all the contractors.
3. The safety of the workers is at high risk. Your safety may also be at risk because of the heavy welding machinery used in the fabrication.
4. In-field fabrication takes a much longer time than shop fabrication mostly due to the lack of the technology available in the factory.

There is always a downside and an upside to everything. Therefore, before you select in field fabrication, it is wise to weigh the advantages and the disadvantages. 

Reach out to a place like Degree C Pty Ltd for more information.