Spencer Manufacturing has a wealth of experience in tube fabrication.
From its humble beginnings manufacturing bicycle components in the 1950’s the business has since expanded and diversified to become a leader in tube fabrication. Today we use state of the art all-electric 7 axis high speed bending machines capable of tube fabrication, bend, rotation and feeding accuracy of +- 0.1 degree and +- 0.1mm.
With touch screen programming and simulation software with we can offer accurate and efficient production. Combined with multi tool stack capability we can produce even the most complex components
What is Tube Fabrication?
Tube fabrication is the process of creating finished products or components from metal tubes or pipes through various manufacturing techniques. This process involves several steps, including cutting, bending, welding, machining, and assembly, to transform raw materials into final products tailored to specific applications. Tube fabrication can encompass a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing.
Here are some common processes involved in tube fabrication:
1. Cutting: Tubes are cut to the required length using methods such as sawing, shearing, laser cutting, or plasma cutting. Precision cutting ensures that the tubes are uniform in size and ready for further processing.
2. Bending: Tube bending involves shaping tubes into desired curves, angles, or configurations using techniques such as rotary draw bending, mandrel bending, or compression bending. Bending is often performed using specialized equipment to achieve precise bends without damaging the tubes.
3. Welding: Welding is used to join tubes together or attach fittings and components. Common welding techniques used in tube fabrication include MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, and resistance welding. Welding ensures strong and durable connections between tubes, which is essential for structural integrity.
4. Machining: Machining processes such as drilling, milling, and threading may be employed to modify the shape or size of tube ends, create grooves or holes, or add threads for fittings or connections. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is often used for precision and repeatability.
5. Finishing: After fabrication, tubes may undergo finishing processes such as deburring, grinding, polishing, or coating to improve surface finish, remove burrs or sharp edges, and enhance corrosion resistance or aesthetics.
6. Assembly: Fabricated tubes are assembled with other components, fittings, or hardware to create complete assemblies or systems. Assembly may involve fastening, brazing, or adhesives to securely join components together.
Tube fabrication requires skilled labor, advanced equipment, and adherence to quality control standards to ensure that fabricated products meet the required specifications, tolerances, and performance criteria. It plays a crucial role in the production of various products, including chassis frames, exhaust systems, hydraulic piping, furniture, and structural components.
Tube Fabrication Services in the UK
At Spencer Manufacturing, we pride ourselves in being a leading UK manufacturer of tubular fabrications. We provide specialised services in tube bending, tube manipulation, tube forming, tube fabrication.
We offer a complete manufacturing and engineering solution for our customers across the UK, from our 45000 ft, 2.5 acre site in Ludlow, Shropshire.