What Is Steel Fabrication?


A Complete Guide for Businesses in Bristol and the South West

Steel fabrication is the process of transforming raw steel into durable, precision-engineered components and structures. For businesses across Bristol and the South West, understanding how steel fabrication works is key to selecting the right contractor for construction, engineering, and manufacturing projects.

What Does Steel Fabrication Involve?

Steel fabrication combines cutting, bending, and assembly to create structural and architectural steel components. This process supports a wide range of applications—from building frames and mezzanines to bespoke staircases and plant supports.

The Steel Fabrication Process

Design & Planning

Fabrication starts with accurate design. Engineers and fabricators work from CAD models and detailed drawings to ensure the final structure meets all safety, compliance, and load-bearing requirements.

Cutting

Steel is cut into the required sizes using:

  • Laser cutting – for precision and fine detail
  • Plasma cutting – using our Kerf RUR HD CNC machine for fast, high-definition results
  • Oxy-fuel cutting – ideal for heavy structural sections

Bending & Forming

Steel is shaped using press brakes or rollers to achieve angular or curved forms as specified in the design.

Welding & Assembly

Experienced welders assemble the cut and formed pieces into complete structures, using appropriate welding techniques to ensure strength and compliance.

Finishing

Steelwork may be blasted, primed, galvanised, or painted to meet durability, weather-resistance, and aesthetic requirements.

Applications of Fabricated Steel

Steel fabrication is essential in:

  • Construction – beams, columns, staircases, and support frameworks
  • Manufacturing – frames, machine bases, and brackets
  • Infrastructure – bridges, walkways, and public installations
  • Architectural metalwork – balconies, balustrades, and decorative structures

Why Choose MJ Patch for Steel Fabrication?

MJ Patch Engineering Ltd has been delivering expert steel fabrication since 1955. Based just outside Bristol, we work with contractors, developers, and fabricators across the South West.

We combine modern CNC machinery with traditional expertise to offer:

  • Fully processed steel sections – drilled and profiled using our Ficep Excalibur 12 drill line and Kerf plasma cutter
  • Fast, accurate, and cost-effective steel supply
  • Structural and architectural metalwork fabrication
  • Compliance with CE marking (BS EN 1090)

Accredited and Trusted

MJ Patch is a proud member of the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) and fully compliant with the RQSC – Buildings scheme. This certification proves our competence under the latest UK building safety legislation and assures clients and insurers that we have the capability, skills, and systems in place to deliver safe, compliant steelwork on every project.

By working with an RQSC-accredited steelwork contractor, you’re choosing a business recognised for its competence, quality, and commitment to safety.

Contact Us for Expert Steel Fabrication

Looking for a trusted steel fabricator for your next project? MJ Patch delivers quality-assured, fully processed steel to businesses across Bristol and the South West.
📞 Call 01275 472279 or contact us online to speak with our team or request a quote.