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How Your Local Metal Shop Can Help Your Business

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:59:52 GMT

When businesses think about improving operations, efficiency, or product quality, they often overlook the value of partnering with a local metal shop. From custom fabrication to quick repairs, metal shops provide essential services that support a wide range of industries. Whether you’re in construction, manufacturing, agriculture, or retail, working with a trusted local metal shop can offer both practical and financial advantages.

Here’s how your local metal shop can help your business grow and succeed.

Custom Fabrication for Unique Needs

Every business has unique requirements, and off-the-shelf solutions don’t always get the job done. Local metal shops specialize in custom fabrication, allowing you to create components tailored specifically to your needs.

This can include:

Custom brackets, frames, and supports
Equipment modifications
Specialized parts for machinery
One-of-a-kind structural components

With custom fabrication, you get solutions designed to fit your exact specifications, improving performance and efficiency.

Faster Turnaround Times

Working with a local metal shop often means faster service compared to larger, distant manufacturers. When you need parts quickly or have an urgent repair, proximity matters.

Benefits include:

Quicker project completion
Reduced shipping delays
Faster response for emergency repairs

This can be especially valuable when downtime directly impacts your business operations.

Equipment Repairs & Maintenance

Machinery breakdowns can be costly and disruptive. Local metal shops can help by providing repair and maintenance services that keep your equipment running smoothly.

They can assist with:

Welding repairs
Replacing worn or damaged components
Reinforcing structural elements
Preventative maintenance work

Having a reliable local partner helps minimize downtime and extend the life of your equipment.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Custom manufacturing and repairs don’t have to break the budget. In many cases, working with a local metal shop can be more cost-effective than ordering new parts or outsourcing to large-scale suppliers.

You may benefit from:

Lower shipping and logistics costs
Competitive local pricing
Reduced need for full equipment replacement

These savings can add up over time, especially for businesses with ongoing metalwork needs.

Support for Multiple Industries

Local metal shops serve a wide range of industries, making them a versatile resource for many types of businesses.

Common industries include:

Construction and contracting
Manufacturing and production
Agriculture and farming
Automotive and transportation

Their adaptability allows them to handle diverse projects and provide solutions across different sectors.

Improved Product Quality

High-quality metal components are essential for durability and performance. Local metal shops often take a hands-on approach to ensure precision and craftsmanship.

This can lead to:

Better-fitting parts
Increased durability
Improved safety and reliability

Working closely with a local team also allows for better communication and quality control throughout the project.

Contact Our Machine Shop to Access Versatile Metal Fabrication Services

Your local metal shop offers more than just fabrication—they provide practical solutions that help your business operate more efficiently and effectively. From custom parts and fast repairs to cost savings and ongoing support, these services can make a meaningful impact on your day-to-day operations.

By partnering with a trusted local metal shop, you gain a reliable resource that supports your business now and into the future. If you're searching for a reliable machine shop in the Odessa, TX region, we urge you to contact one of the knowledgeable representatives at Midland Waterjet . From steel and aluminum fabrication work to innovative waterjet cutting services, our qualified team members have got you covered every step of the way!

Choosing the Right Cutting Method for Your Project

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 14:14:08 GMT

Selecting the appropriate cutting method can make or break your manufacturing project. The right choice affects precision, cost efficiency, and the structural integrity of your materials. Multiple cutting technologies exist, each offering distinct advantages for specific applications and materials. Understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions for your fabrication needs. From traditional methods like plasma and laser cutting to advanced technologies such as waterjet cutting, each approach serves particular purposes. This guide explores various cutting methods, with a detailed focus on waterjet cutting and how it compares to alternative techniques.

Understanding Different Cutting Methods

Modern fabrication relies on several cutting technologies, each suited to different materials and project requirements.

Plasma Cutting

Plasma cutting uses an electrically conductive gas to transfer energy from a power supply to conductive materials. This method works well for cutting steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. It offers fast cutting speeds and handles thicker materials effectively. One negative is that plasma cutting generates significant heat, which can warp thinner materials or alter the properties of heat-sensitive metals. The process also produces a heat-affected zone along the cut edge that may require additional finishing work.

Laser Cutting

Laser cutting employs a focused beam of light to melt, burn, or vaporize material. This method delivers high precision and clean edges, making it suitable for intricate designs and thin materials. While laser cutting excels at accuracy, it has limitations. The technology struggles with thicker materials and reflective surfaces. Heat generation remains a concern, particularly when working with materials sensitive to thermal stress. Laser cutting equipment also requires substantial initial investment and ongoing maintenance.

Traditional Mechanical Cutting

Mechanical cutting methods, including sawing, shearing, and milling, have served manufacturing for decades. These approaches offer reliability and require less specialized knowledge to operate. The drawbacks include slower processing times, material waste from blade width, and physical stress on materials that can cause deformation. Mechanical methods also struggle with complex shapes and patterns that modern projects often demand.

Why Waterjet Cutting Stands Out

Waterjet cutting has emerged as a versatile solution for diverse fabrication challenges. This technology uses water pressurized up to 55,000 psi, often combined with abrasive garnet particles, to cut through materials with precision.

No Heat-Affected Zone

One of the most significant advantages of waterjet cutting is its cold cutting process. Unlike plasma or laser methods, waterjet cutting generates no heat during operation. This characteristic prevents material warping, eliminates heat-affected zones, and preserves the structural integrity of the workpiece. Materials that are sensitive to heat, such as certain plastics or composites, can be cut without compromising their properties. This makes waterjet cutting suitable for applications where maintaining material characteristics is essential.

Material Versatility

Waterjet cutting handles an extensive range of materials, from soft rubbers and foams to hardened steel and titanium. The same machine can cut metals, stone, glass, ceramics, and even food products without requiring different tools or setups. This versatility reduces the need for multiple cutting systems in your facility. You can transition between projects involving different materials without significant downtime or equipment changes.

Thickness Capability

Waterjet technology cuts through materials of varying thickness with consistent quality. While some materials can be cut up to several inches thick, the actual capability depends on material density and desired edge quality. Thinner materials can be stacked for simultaneous cutting, increasing production efficiency. This stacking capability allows you to process multiple parts in a single operation, reducing overall project time.

Precision and Detail

Modern waterjet systems incorporate advanced CAD and CNC technologies, enabling complex geometries and intricate designs. The cutting stream can be controlled with high accuracy, producing parts with tight tolerances. Tilt-a-Jet technology, used in advanced waterjet systems, adjusts the stream angle to compensate for natural stream deflection. This innovation eliminates the taper that occurs in standard waterjet cutting, ensuring perpendicular edges and consistent part dimensions.

Environmental Considerations

Waterjet cutting produces minimal waste and uses no hazardous chemicals. The water and abrasive can often be recycled or disposed of safely. No toxic fumes or gases are generated during cutting, creating a safer working environment for operators.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cutting Method

Several considerations influence which cutting method serves your project requirements.

Material Type and Thickness

Different materials respond better to specific cutting technologies. Reflective materials like copper or brass can be challenging for laser cutting, but work well with waterjet. Extremely thick materials may exceed the practical capabilities of some methods. Consider both the material composition and its thickness when evaluating cutting options. Some materials also have internal stresses that certain cutting methods might release, causing deformation.

Edge Quality Requirements

The desired finish of the cut edge affects method selection. Some applications require smooth, finished edges ready for assembly, while others can accommodate rougher cuts that will be further processed. Waterjet cutting typically produces clean edges with minimal burr formation. The edge quality can be adjusted through speed and quality level settings to meet specific project needs without additional finishing operations.

Production Volume and Speed

High-volume production may favor faster cutting methods, even if they require additional finishing steps. Lower-volume custom work might benefit from the precision and versatility of waterjet cutting, which can reduce secondary operations. Calculate the total time from cutting through finishing when comparing methods. A slower cutting process that eliminates finishing steps may ultimately prove faster than a quick cut requiring extensive additional work.

Budget Constraints

Initial equipment costs, operating expenses, and material waste all affect project budgets. While some cutting technologies require significant capital investment, others offer lower entry costs but higher per-part expenses. Consider both immediate costs and long-term value. A cutting method that reduces material waste and eliminates secondary operations may provide better overall value despite higher per-cut costs.

Design Complexity

Complex shapes, tight tolerances, and intricate details require cutting methods capable of following precise paths. Projects with simpler geometries and looser tolerances have more flexibility in method selection. Waterjet cutting excels at complex designs thanks to CNC control and the flexibility of the cutting stream. The technology can create sharp internal corners and detailed patterns that challenge other cutting methods.

Professional Waterjet Cutting Services with Midland Waterjet

At Midland Waterjet, we provide comprehensive waterjet cutting services for clients throughout Midland , Odessa , Abilene , and Lubbock, TX ; as well as the surrounding areas. Our facility utilizes OMAX waterjet equipment, chosen for its combination of speed and accuracy in the cutting process. Our systems incorporate Tilt-a-Jet technology, which adjusts the waterjet stream to eliminate material taper and ensure consistent part quality. This technology produces parts with perpendicular edges and uniform dimensions throughout the material thickness. We work with a wide range of materials, from metals like aluminum and steel to plastics, composites, and other specialized materials.

Our team can assist with material selection and cutting specifications to ensure that your project meets its requirements. Whether you need prototype parts, custom components, or production runs, our waterjet cutting capabilities can accommodate projects of various scales and complexity levels. We understand that quality requirements vary by application and can adjust our processes to deliver the precision your project demands. For fabrication projects requiring accurate, clean cuts without heat-affected zones, waterjet cutting offers a proven solution. Contact us to discuss your project requirements and learn how our waterjet cutting services can support your manufacturing needs.

The Role of Waterjet Cutting in Creating Custom Steel Signs

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 18:02:50 GMT

Creating a sign that stands out requires precision, durability, and a clean finish. For businesses looking for high-quality signage, the manufacturing process is just as important as the design itself. Waterjet cutting has become a prominent method for fabricating custom steel signs, offering a level of detail and quality that other methods can't always match. This process allows for intricate designs and smooth edges, ensuring that the final product accurately represents a company's brand.

This post will explain the role of waterjet cutting in creating custom steel signs. We will cover how the technology works, the benefits it offers for sign fabrication, and how it compares to other cutting methods. Understanding this process can help you make an informed decision when commissioning a durable and visually appealing sign for your business.

What is Waterjet Cutting?

Waterjet cutting is a fabrication process that uses a high-pressure stream of water to cut through a wide variety of materials. To cut harder materials like steel, an abrasive substance, such as garnet, is mixed into the water stream. This mixture is then forced through a small nozzle at a very high velocity, creating a powerful cutting tool that can slice through metal with remarkable accuracy.

The entire process is controlled by a computer, which follows a digital design file. This allows for the creation of complex shapes and intricate patterns that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional cutting tools. Because it is a cold-cutting process, it does not generate heat, which prevents the material from warping or having its structural integrity compromised.

Benefits of Using Waterjet Cutting for Steel Signs

When it comes to creating custom steel signs, the method used to cut the material plays a significant role in the quality of the final product. Waterjet cutting offers several distinct advantages that make it an ideal choice for sign fabrication.

Precision and Intricate Designs

Waterjet cutting is guided by computer-aided design (CAD) software, which allows for an extremely high level of precision. This technology can produce complex fonts, detailed logos, and elaborate patterns with clean, sharp edges. The fine cutting stream enables the creation of detailed work without sacrificing accuracy, ensuring that your sign matches your design specifications exactly.

No Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ)

Unlike plasma or laser cutting, waterjet cutting is a cold-cutting process. It does not generate heat, which means there is no heat-affected zone (HAZ) on the material. This is particularly important for steel signs, as heat can cause discoloration, warping, and changes to the metal's structural properties. With no thermal stress, the steel maintains its original strength and appearance, resulting in a more durable and aesthetically pleasing sign.

Smooth, High-Quality Finish

The waterjet cutting process produces a smooth, sandblasted-like finish along the cut edge, which often eliminates the need for secondary finishing processes like grinding or polishing. This not only saves time and reduces costs but also ensures a consistently high-quality edge on every part of the sign. The result is a clean and professional look that enhances the overall visual effect of your signage.

Material Versatility

While this post focuses on steel, waterjet technology is capable of cutting a vast range of materials without requiring a change in setup. This includes different types of metals like aluminum and copper, as well as plastics, wood, and stone. This versatility means that steel can be combined with other materials in a single sign design, allowing for more creative and unique results. For example, steel lettering can be inlaid into a wooden or plastic background to create a striking industrial effect.

How Waterjet Cutting Compares to Other Methods

While other cutting methods like laser and plasma cutting are also used in metal fabrication, waterjet cutting offers unique advantages for custom signage.

Laser Cutting - Laser cutting uses a high-powered laser to melt, burn, or vaporize the material. While it is very precise, it creates a heat-affected zone that can alter the properties of the steel and may require secondary finishing. It is also limited by the thickness of the material it can cut.
Plasma Cutting - Plasma cutting uses a jet of hot plasma to cut through electrically conductive materials. It is faster than waterjet cutting but less precise and creates a significant heat-affected zone. The edges produced by plasma cutting are often rough and require additional finishing.

For custom steel signs where precision, edge quality, and material integrity are priorities, waterjet cutting is often the superior choice.

Custom Steel Signs at Midland Waterjet

At Midland Waterjet, we specialize in creating custom steel signs for businesses throughout Midland , Odessa , Abilene , and Lubbock, TX ; as well as the surrounding areas. Using advanced waterjet cutting technology , we can transform your company’s logo and branding into a high-quality and durable sign that makes a lasting impression. Our process ensures that every detail of your design is captured with precision.

We are equipped to handle projects of all sizes and complexities, working with you to bring your vision to life. Whether you need a striking exterior sign to attract customers or a professional lobby sign, our fabrication services are tailored to meet your specific needs. We are committed to delivering a finished product that reflects the quality and professionalism of your brand. To learn more about our custom steel sign services or to discuss your project, contact us today!

How Plastic Fabrication with Waterjets is Revolutionizing Modern Manufacturing

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 13:29:33 GMT

Waterjet cutting is changing the game for plastic fabrication . By harnessing ultra-high-pressure streams of water, manufacturers can achieve incredibly precise cuts without heat distortion or toxic emissions. This technology is opening up new possibilities for design, efficiency, and sustainability across many industries.

Why Waterjet Cutting Stands Out

Waterjet systems, guided by advanced CNC controls, enable the creation of detailed shapes and smooth edges in a wide range of plastics, including acrylic, polycarbonate, HDPE, PVC, and more. Unlike traditional cutting methods, waterjets don’t cause melting or release harmful fumes, making the process clean and eco-friendly.

Manufacturers can cut intricate parts with tolerances as tight as ±0.003 inches, and often skip secondary finishing steps thanks to the clean, polished edges. Because waterjets can adapt to different thicknesses and materials , they offer significant flexibility for both prototyping and full production runs.

Environmental and Efficiency Benefits

Waterjet cutting produces minimal waste due to its precise, narrow cuts. With no need for harmful chemicals or additional cooling fluids, it’s a safer option for both workers and the environment. Plus, the clean scrap generated can typically be recycled, further reducing environmental impact.

Transforming Multiple Industries

Industries like aerospace, medical devices, automotive, and electronics rely on waterjet-cut plastics for their accuracy, efficiency, and adaptability. Waterjet technology helps create complex components quickly—supporting innovation and reducing manufacturing costs.

Midland Waterjet: Experts in Precision

Midland Waterjet leads the way in waterjet plastic fabrication, serving businesses across West Texas and beyond. Their experience with various plastics and commitment to quality ensure clients get the best results, whether for prototypes or large production orders.

Ready to Learn More?

Discover how Midland Waterjet’s advanced waterjet cutting services can take your next project to the next level with precision and efficiency. Our cutting-edge technology ensures clean, accurate cuts for a variety of materials, including plastics, making them the ideal choice for your plastic fabrication needs. Whether you're working on a small-scale prototype or a large production run, their experienced team is ready to help. Contact us today to explore the possibilities and see how their services can bring your vision to life.

Correcting Distortion After Welding

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 07:10:32 GMT

Metal fabrication projects that use welding processes will usually experience at least some degree of welding distortion. Distortion in a weld results from the expansion and contraction of the weld metal and base metal during the heating and cooling cycle of the welding process. During the heating and cooling cycle, many factors affect the shrinkage of the metal and lead to distortion, such as physical and mechanical properties that change as heat is applied.

Distortion is an issue for multiple reasons, but one of the most critical is the potential of a weld that is not structurally sound. Welding distortions can threaten the structural integrity and/or the aesthetic of a project. Depending on the type and size of the distortion and the material used there are different corrective techniques that can be used to fix weld distortions.

The Many Forms of Distortion

Factors such as the type of metal, the amount of residual stress, and the degree of restraining used during the welding process impact the amount of distortion and the type of distortion. Here are some of the common types of welding distortions:

Transverse Shrinkage - The weld distortions move vertically through the weld. The distortions are formed due to contractions that run perpendicular to the weld.
Longitudinal Shrinkage - Shrinkage occurs perpendicular to your weld. The primary cause for this is applying force parallel to the weld.
Angular Distortion - Occurs when stronger contractive force is applied on one side of the neutral axis. This causes warping or bending of the material in that direction.
Bowing & Dishing - This occurs when the weld is not balanced along the neutral axis of the cross-section. The result is a curved shape.
Buckling & Twisting - This is common among thin metal structures. It is time-consuming and difficult to rectify.

Techniques Used to Correct Distortion

Hammering - This is the most common technique used to fix distortions. A hammer or power hammer is used to hit the distortion into a flat surface. This can be used in conjunction with thermal techniques to rectify many types of weld distortions.
Heat Straightening - In this process, heat is applied to the distorted part using an oxyacetylene torch. The heating process followed by a natural cooling action can bring the deformation back into a more natural position.
Hot Mechanical Straightening - Similar to heat straightening, but in this process, the metal is heated to the yield stress point. Heating metal to this point allows it to straighten and allows the physical appearance of the metal to be altered.
Thermal Correction -Heat is applied to the distortion on the opposite side of the weld along a straight line. Line heating can be used to correct angular distortions. Heat can also be applied to small spots of the base metal to remove distortions on thin sheets.
Hot Working - In this process, the heat applied surpasses the yield stress point. The metal is heated to the point that molecular changes occur. The metal will begin to glow a cherry red at the proper temperature and you are able to move the metal into the desired position.

Contact Our Machine Shop for Quality Metal Fabrication Services & More

If you are looking for a reliable machine shop to assist you with a metal fabrication project, turn to Midland Waterjet. No matter your needs, we will handle everything from waterjet cutting , bending, and assembly, to welding. Our machine shop has the capability to work with a range of materials including steel , aluminum , copper, titanium, brass, cast iron, and so much more. For years, our machine shop has provided top-notch metal fabrication for clients across Midland , Odessa , Lubbock , Abilene , TX and the surrounding regions.

While we’re proud to offer quality metal fabrication solutions, we also have experience with stone, glass, wood, laminate, composite, and plastic fabrication services. If you’re interested in learning more, don’t waste another moment. Contact our machine shop to get started on your next fabrication project!

Metal Fabrication Techniques That Increase Overall Value

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:08:41 GMT

The main difference between a standard and custom metal fabrication project is value.

From the initial design to the final delivery, the custom metal fabrication process aims to create durable, quality results with long-term value. Whether you run a commercial, industrial, or agricultural operation, it's important to maximize the value of your purchase by investing in high-quality items that work reliably and are built to last. Regardless of your custom metal fabrication project size or specifications, there are a few techniques that will help produce quality results with lasting value.

Establishing Design Intent

It's critical to clearly establish your preferred design and intent of your project if you want to achieve your desired outcome, which adds and retains the product's value. A custom fabricator can take any plan and flesh it out, creating a detailed design that will accomplish your project's goals and functions. In some cases, it will be necessary to refine and test the design to make sure that each individual component meets the requirements and regulations for the bigger project. Thoroughly planning your project leads to a completely customized, effective, and valuable final product.

Clearly establishing your design intent is especially important for custom metal fabrications such as:

Material storage
Liquid food storage for specialized conditions, such as containers with the ability to keep their contents at constant temperatures
Custom metal pieces that have specific weight requirements

Metal Cutting & Shaping

There are many different metal cutting methods; The specific technique that is used for your project will depend on the type and thickness of the metal that needs to be cut. Some of the most well-known methods to cut metal include:

Waterjet cutting , which uses pressurized water to issue precise cuts
Laser cutting, which is most often used for delicate materials
Plasma tables, which are most often used for carving circular holes or complex shapes out of thick metal

An experienced fabricator can assess the project and decide which methods are best suited to achieve the desired outcome.

In addition to cutting, most metal fabrication work often involves the fabricator to bend, roll, or punch the metal to mold it into the desired shape. By using the correct machinery and the best combination of shaping methods, the overall outcome is more likely to be successful.

Custom Welding & Assembly

Each custom metal fabrication product needs to meet specific project specifications and industry standards. In addition, quality control steps should be taken to ensure the fabricated piece works properly and effectively. When shipped, the components should be in their most complete form possible to ensure quick assembly upon delivery. These steps can drastically reduce your project's timeline and help to control expenses.

Certified welders are more likely to easily meet industry requirements, which ensures that your final product adheres to all necessary standards. If you have a custom metal fabrication project in mind, be sure to carefully choose your professionals to make sure that your final product is exactly what you want. The right welding professional will communicate closely with you throughout the duration of your project to make sure that your product meets or exceeds your specifications.

Expert Finishing With Value in Mind

The final finishing touches can help extend the life of any custom metal fabrication piece. It is a crucial step to ensure the product is resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and tarnishing. There are many finishing techniques for metal fabrication projects; the option you choose will depend on the piece itself.

Metal Bead Blasting: This, along with other surface preparation techniques, prepares the metal surface for paint or other coatings. This allows the finished product to retain its color or finish for as long as possible.
Custom Painting: We use controlled paint booths to ensure that the paint dries quickly and hardens as intended.
Metal Powder Coating: If your metal product is more detailed, consider this technique to add a more decorative finishing touch.
Hot-Dip Galvanizing: This type of finish coats every detail of the metal fabrication to protect it against moisture and help it retain its structural integrity.

By adding to your product's look and level of durability, the proper finishing technique can add a ton of value.

Have a custom metal fabrication project in mind? It's important to work with an experienced machine shop to make sure that you get the high-quality product you need quickly and efficiently! Rely on Midland Waterjet for expert service in the Lubbock , Abilene , and Midland , TX areas. Contact us today to discuss your needs! We look forward to working with you and creating a custom project that suits your needs and boosts value in every way possible.

Why Choose Powder Coating for Metal Fabrication?

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 07:07:05 GMT

Powder Coating Offers Several Benefits

Powder coating is a great way to protect your heavy machinery. It’s more durable than a liquid paint finish yet still offers a stylish one.

First of all, let’s talk about durability. Powder coating is resistant to scratches, chips, fading, and corrosion. It’s also much more flexible than wet paint, and allows some “give” when it comes to moving and vibrating machine parts. The curing process also protects the metal from rain and heat.

The powder coating process is very efficient, as there’s no need to wait for any coat applied to dry. This also means no wasted materials costs. Finally, the powder costs less than paint does and doesn’t take up as much storage space.

The quality of the finish is also much better with powder coating than it is with paint, as there’s no chance of running, dripping, or unevenness.

Just as with paint colors, there’s an endless selection of colors and finishes available with powder coating to perfectly meet your wants and needs. Both rough and smooth surface textures are available as well.

Finally, powder coating is a very environmentally friendly choice. The application process emits virtually no pollution and produces very little waste. The powder coating itself contains no solvents. Anything that isn’t used is collected to be used in the future.

If your business is located in the Midland , Abilene or Lubbock, TX and you’re in search of powder coating or any other metal fabrication services, please give us a call to get started. We employ a team of knowledgeable professionals and our machine shop is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We have the experience needed to get the job done and have served hundreds of clients across seven states. Contact us for precise machining and metal fabrication !

What You Need to Know About Custom Metal Fabrication

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 07:07:24 GMT

Before contacting a machine shop, there are a few things you should know about custom metal fabrication.

The gist of how metal fabrication works:

The process of metal fabrication involves using manual tools and machinery to bend, cut, manipulate, and assemble various raw material to create the desired product. Technically, metal fabrication shops focus on preparation and assembly while machine shops direct their attention mainly at the machining of the parts for functionality.

What can be created:

Just about anything can be created through the process of metal fabrication. From replacement parts for construction equipment to stairway railings, fabrication experts can make it happen. Some of the raw materials commonly used include plate metal, flat metal, tube stock, welding wire and rods, and castings. Using a combination of materials, custom metal fabrication professionals can create nearly any item or product.

Metal fabrication is more than just cutting & welding:

The process of metal fabrication includes more than just cutting and welding various metals to create the final product. Other techniques such has brazing, punching, forging, and spinning are also used. Depending on your goals, specialty processes such as casting, chipping, powder coating, and welding can be completed. In addition, electrical or hydraulic processes may be needed.

How much is involved in the metal fabrication process:

The process of metal fabrication starts with an idea that gets translated into sketches and designs. Your product is specially engineered to suit your needs. Extensive measurements are then made to determine if the project is feasible and the best materials for the job. Once the design is completely executed and the costs are agreed upon, that is when the hands-on metal fabrication work begins.

If you're located in the Lubbock , Midland , or Abilene , TX area and are looking for reliable custom metal fabrication services, choose Midland Waterjet! Our technicians have years of knowledge and experience, and are able to design and create the exact product you need. For more information, contact our metal fabrication and machine shop today! We look forward to working with you.

Contact Our Machine Shop to Learn More!

Waterjet Cutting VS. Laser Cutting

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Why You Should Choose Waterjet Cutting

When it comes to digital manufacturing cutting techniques, there are several options to choose from. Two of those options are waterjet cutting and laser cutting. We will compare those two techniques and show you why waterjet cutting is the better option.

Why Waterjet Cutting?

Waterjet cutting uses pressurized water that is focused on a very small point that is then used to cut the material. You might bethinking, “cut with water?” Yes! The pressure can be as high as 60000 pounds per square inch (4137 bar).

Compared to laser cutting, waterjet cutting can stand on its own and won’t require additional finishing. You won’t have to deal with uneven edges, chips, etc. when you choose waterjet cutting. After all, waterjet cutting is considered a “finished cut.”

Another big reason that you should choose water jet over laser cutting is that laser cutting can cause the material to burn or melt due to the heat the laser is producing. The laser used in laser cutting is meant to melt, burn and vaporize the material. Water will not negatively affect your material and water is a good insulator for heat.

Contact Our Waterjet Cutting Specialists to Request Assistance

No matter the nature of your upcoming application, we urge you to contact one of the knowledgeable representatives at Midland Waterjet . For years, our certified technicians have continued to assist all sorts of professional clients throughout the Midland , Odessa , Lubbock , and Abilene , TX communities. Not only do we offer a versatile suite of waterjet cutting services, but we offer some of the region's most competitive rates. By utilizing pressurized water, we're able to quickly cut through materials while simultaneously making use of various CAD and CNC design applications. All you have to do is give us a call to get started!