Are you considering options for a bespoke steel fabrication? Or are you weighing up options for products and installations of other metals? At GW Ironworks, we cover all your metal fabrication needs in Brighton and the surrounding areas we cover. Be it metal gates, metal balustrades, structural beams or glass balconies, we have a solution for everyone. As metal staircase manufacturers and fire escape installers, we also fabricate and fit external escape routes in full compliance with Document B of the Building Regulations, BS 9999:2017 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
During fabrication services, you may need to choose between ferrous and non-ferrous metals. The properties of these materials determine how you can and cannot use them.
There are several differences between these metals, which we look at below. However, one of the fastest ways to recognise one from the other is the presence of iron. Put simply, ferrous metals contain iron, while non-ferrous metals don’t.
To discuss options for bespoke metal gates, metal balustrades, structural beams or glass balconies, call our professional metal staircase manufacturers on 01273 514 448 or 07976 875 021 to schedule an initial consultation in Brighton.
You usually find ferrous metals used in construction, piping, shipping containers and automobiles, to name a few applications. Many untreated ferrous metals are vulnerable to rust when exposed to water. Because of this, the most popular long-term options include stainless steel and wrought iron. Here, we look at the properties of multiple materials, including:
As metal fabricators and fire escape installers covering Brighton, GW Ironworks excels at stainless steel fabrication. Due to its ability to self-heal, this metal is one of the most durable and cost-effective in the ferrous category. In addition, stainless steel is corrosion- and heat-resistant. It offers outstanding durability too. As such, this material is a great choice for metal gates, metal balustrades, structural beams and the frames of glass balconies.
This material is another example of a durable ferrous metal. Wrought iron is an alloy that contains little carbon. Slag added during manufacture makes this metal resistant to oxidation and corrosion. As such, wrought iron holds its popularity for use in railings, chains and barbed wire.
Due to its carbon content, this material is one of the hardest steels available. This makes it ideal for use in specialised manufacturing, such as blades, drills, and machine tools. It’s not so common in the most popular services we provide as metal fabricators and fire escape installers in Brighton.
Unlike steel fabrications or any other ferrous metal product, non-ferrous metals are more malleable. This is due to their lack of iron. They also have greater resistance to corrosion and rust. Popular metals include:
With its lightweight properties, aluminium holds huge popularity in various manufacturing sectors, from food cans and utensils to cars and aircraft.
With its clean finish and easy-to-install nature, aluminium is also popular for metal balustrades and as a component in glass balconies. They also make a great, lighter alternative to metal gates outside Brighton properties.
However, as metal staircase manufacturers and fire escape installers, we still only use steel fabrications for escape staircases.
Cooper has impressive malleability as well as high conductivity. This makes it a common feature in the electrical industry.
Known for its low melting point, zinc is commonly used in galvanising or as a protective coating for iron and steel fabrications to prevent rusting.
