Equipment for Metal Fabricators

Flap discs, mounted points and abrasive pads are chosen according to the metal and the operation: roughing, finishing or smoothing. Cutting wheels and grinding wheels are not interchangeable, and must only be used for the function shown on the label. The grit indicates the fineness of the abrasive, from the coarsest for heavy work to the finest for finishing. Always use the guard and safety glasses.

Angle grinders are chosen according to the disc diameter, power and power supply. Diameters of 115 and 125 mm are common for cutting and deburring, while 230 mm is for heavier work. Check the maximum speed and that the disc is compatible with the machine. The protective guard must never be removed and should be checked before every use.

Locks, padlocks and security hardware are chosen according to the level of protection desired, the type of leaf and the material of the frame. For gates and railings it is also worth considering resistance to the weather. Hinges must be sized for the weight of the leaf, because an inadequate load causes wear and sagging. Check compatibility with the existing drilling before fitting.

Plastic-coated wire mesh is chosen according to the height of the fence, the mesh size and the colour. A tighter mesh holds back small animals and reduces visibility through the fence, while a wider mesh lets more air and light through. The plastic coating protects the wire from rust and the elements. Fixing to the posts must be solid and at regular intervals.

Flood barriers are chosen according to the opening to be protected, the expected water height and the type of access. Folding aluminium barriers are fitted across a passage, while full closures for windows or doors are fixed to the opening. Check with a technician the protection height needed and the dimensions of the opening before buying. For basement windows there are opaque and transparent versions.

The cut-to-size barrier must be adapted to the width of the opening, measured at several points. Cutting is done with a tool suited to aluminium, and the edges must be deburred to avoid injuries. Fixing must be done at the points provided by the system, without compromising the seal. Before installation, a preliminary check of the opening's structure is advisable.

The spreader clamp holds the pieces to be joined or locked in place during assembly or welding. The quick-release mechanism lets you adjust the grip with a few movements. The nylon and fibreglass jaws protect the surface from marks. Check that the opening capacity covers the size of the piece, and do not force beyond the limit stated by the manufacturer.