Fabricators by definition are those who build something by bending, cutting and assembling. Steel fabricators make things by bending, cutting and assembling things made out of steel. One important process in steel fabrication is welding. Welding is done by heating the material and melting another material between two pieces to form a seal, known as a weld, attaching one piece to the other.

Many steel fabricators work in construction on large buildings which have steel reinforced frames. Steel fabricators often will work directly with architects and engineers to decide on the best process to use and the best angles and so forth. The steel helps the building be stronger and able to withstand many natural disasters such as earthquakes when the fabrication is done properly. Steel fabricators either employ a welder to assist with assembly or are experienced welders themselves.

A steel fabricator may also find employment in custom motorcycle building, car repair, machine repair and many other areas. Those who specialize only in steel fabricating may find that custom building is where they find most of their jobs. Steel fabricators may also work for a large company that specializes in pre-assembled structures or parts. They may provide pre-fabricated window frames, doors, handle bars, or supports to other manufacturers.

The trade of steel fabrication is an old one. When it was determined that steel was a very viable product for making things out of with the right type of tools, many began to discover ways to work with it. Being a hard metal, the cutting of steel is most easily done with torches. However, most fabrication will require a smooth, straight edge. For this job, one will require a specialized blade, usually carbide or diamond tipped. These two materials are harder than steel and have the ability to cut through steel and provide a smooth edge for assembly.

Today laser cutting has become a quicker, more efficient method of cutting steel. Not only does it cut smoother and faster, but computerized designed can be programmed and a work of art can be made out of a block of steel. As technology evolves, as does the steel fabrication trade.