Is CNC a metal fabrication?
Buyer: I’m building a custom metal part and got two quotes—one for CNC, the other for fabrication. Is CNC a form of metal fabrication?
Engineer (Prime): Good question. CNC machining and metal fabrication often overlap, but they’re technically different processes. Let’s break down what each means, how they’re used, and when they connect.
Table of Contents
- What are the three 3 types of metal fabrication?
- What type of manufacturing is CNC?
- Is machining considered fabrication?
- What is an example of metal fabrication?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
What are the three 3 types of metal fabrication?
Buyer: First—what’s considered “fabrication” in metalworking?
Engineer: Great place to start. Metal fabrication typically includes:
- Cutting – Laser, plasma, waterjet, or shear
- Forming – Bending, rolling, stamping
- Joining – Welding, fastening, riveting
These steps convert raw metal sheets, bars, or tubes into finished shapes or assemblies.
At Prime, we handle all three in-house—often combining them with CNC or casting depending on part requirements.
What type of manufacturing is CNC?
Buyer: So where does CNC fit?
Engineer: CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a subtractive manufacturing process—it removes material from a solid block using precision tools.
Common CNC processes:
- Milling
- Turning
- Drilling
- Boring
- Tapping
| CNC Category | Description |
|---|---|
| CNC Machining | Precise shaping by cutting/removal |
| CNC Fabrication | Includes cutting, forming steps |
| CNC Laser | Digital control of laser cutting |
So, while CNC isn’t always metal fabrication, it can be part of a fabrication workflow.
Is machining considered fabrication?
Buyer: So—is machining part of fabrication or separate?
Engineer: It’s both. Machining is a finishing or precision step often used after core fabrication. For example:
- Cut + bend + weld = a steel box
- CNC mill = precision holes or slots added afterward
At Prime, we often combine CNC and fabrication for clients who need both structural and dimensional precision.
Summary: Machining complements fabrication. For tight tolerances, CNC is essential.
What is an example of metal fabrication?
Buyer: Can you give me a real example?
Engineer: Sure! A custom steel bracket is a classic fabrication job:
- Laser-cut from 3mm mild steel
- Bent to 90° using a press brake
- Welded with gussets
- Coated with black powder for corrosion resistance
If tight mounting holes are needed, we’ll use CNC drilling or reaming to hit ±0.05mm tolerance.
Summary: Fabrication covers the core structure. CNC adds the finishing details or precision fits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Is CNC part of the fabrication industry?
Engineer: Yes. Many fab shops offer CNC in-house or as a secondary process.
❓ What’s better—CNC or fabrication?
Engineer: It depends. For structural parts, go fabrication. For high precision or small parts, CNC is ideal.
❓ Can CNC machines cut sheet metal?
Engineer: Not directly. That’s laser or plasma. CNC machines usually shape blocks, rods, or castings.
❓ Does Prime do both?
Engineer: Yes! Prime is a one-stop supplier for CNC, fabrication, casting, and stamping.
Conclusion
Buyer: So—is CNC a metal fabrication process?
Engineer: Not exactly—but it’s a vital part of many fabricated components. CNC machining adds precision to fabricated parts or produces stand-alone, high-tolerance parts.
Buyer: That makes sense. I might need both depending on the part.
Engineer: That’s what we’re here for. Prime combines both to deliver the most cost-effective and high-quality result.
Need help choosing between CNC machining or fabrication?
Contact Prime for a free consultation, part review, and quote.
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://primecustomparts.com
