Our FAQ page is designed to answer some of the common questions you may have about our business and the services we offer. If you’d like to jump to a specific section, you can click on the quick link menu system to go to the section of interest.

1. General Information

What services does Wrightform offer? Wrightform provides laser cutting, metal bending, forming, folding, flattening, edge rounding, dull polishing, electro-chemical marking, bead blasting and various metal fabrication services.

What materials can you work with? We work with various metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, and mild steel.

2. Orders and Lead Times

How do I request a quote? Contact us through our website or by phone with your project details, and we’ll provide a quote.

What is your typical lead time? Lead times vary based on project complexity but can be expedited depending on urgency.

3. Customisation and Capabilities

Can you handle large-scale production runs? Yes, we are equipped to manage both small and large-scale production orders.

Do you offer custom metal fabrication? Yes, we provide custom solutions tailored to your specifications.

4. Quality and Standards

What quality standards do you adhere to? We are EN1090-2 certified, ensuring high-quality production standards.

How do you ensure the precision of your work? We use state-of-the-art equipment and have a rigorous quality control process.

5. Delivery and Support

Do you offer delivery services? We deliver across the UK using our own fleet of vehicles and reputable carriers.

Can you assist with design and prototyping? Absolutely, we offer design and prototyping services to bring your ideas to life.

Metal Bending and Folding

1. What is Metal Bending and Folding?

Metal bending and folding involves deforming metal into specific angles or shapes using machines like press brakes.

2. What Materials Can Be Bent or Folded?

We work with stainless steel, mild steel, aluminium, and other metals. Each material has specific properties that affect its bending and forming capabilities.

3. What are the minimum and maximum metal thicknesses you can work with?

Our press brakes can handle material as thin as 0.5 mm (0.020 inches). The maximum thickness our press brakes can handle is generally around 25 mm (1 inch) for mild steel. For more robust materials like stainless steel or more complex alloys, the maximum thickness might be slightly lower, such as 12.5 mm (0.5 inches) or 20 mm (0.75 inches)

4. What Are the Tolerances for Bending and Folding?

Tolerances depend on material thickness, type, and the complexity of the bend. We maintain industry-standard tolerances but can accommodate tighter specifications if needed.

5. What Bending Methods Do You Use?

We use press brakes, rollers, and other specialised equipment. The method depends on the project’s requirements, such as the angle, radius, and material.

6. Can You Handle Complex Bends or Custom Shapes?

Yes, we specialise in custom metal bending and forming, including complex geometries. Our advanced machinery and skilled technicians ensure precision.

7. Do You Provide Prototyping Services?

Yes, we offer prototyping to refine designs before full-scale production, ensuring the final product meets your specifications.

8. How Do You Ensure Quality and Precision?

We use CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology and rigorous quality control processes to ensure accuracy in every project.

9. What Are the Lead Times for Bending and Folding Services?

Lead times vary based on project complexity and volume but generally range from a few days to weeks. We also offer expedited services for urgent projects.

10. Is There a Minimum Order Quantity?

We handle small and large orders with no strict minimum order quantity. We can accommodate your needs whether you need a single prototype or a large production run.

11. Can You Assist with Design and Engineering?

Our team can help with design and engineering, providing insights to optimise your application’s bending and forming process.

12. Do You Offer Additional Services Post-Bending?

To complete your project, we provide various post-bending services, including welding, assembly, surface treatment, and finishing.

13. How Do I Get a Quote?

You can request a quote by contacting us through our website, email, or phone and providing details about your project’s requirements.

Metal Laser Cutting Services

1. What is Metal Laser Cutting?

Metal laser cutting uses a high-powered laser to precisely cut or engrave metals, offering clean edges and intricate designs. This method is ideal for both prototype and large-scale production.

2. What Materials Can Be Laser Cut?

We work with various metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, and mild steel. Each material has specific thickness limits that affect cutting capabilities.

3. What Thicknesses Can You Cut?

We can cut various metal thicknesses, typically up to 25mm for mild steel, 20mm for stainless steel, and 15mm for aluminium. Specific capabilities depend on the material and desired precision.

4. What Are the Benefits of Laser Cutting?

Laser cutting offers high precision, minimal material waste, clean cuts, and the ability to handle complex geometries. It is also faster and more cost effective than traditional cutting methods.

5. Can You Handle Custom Designs?

Yes, we specialise in custom laser cutting. You can provide your own CAD files, or we can assist with laser cutting design and optimisation.

6. How Do You Ensure Precision and Quality?

We use advanced CNC laser cutting machines and follow strict quality control processes to ensure accuracy and consistency in every project.

7. What Is the Typical Lead Time for Laser Cutting?

Lead times vary based on the project’s complexity and size but generally range from a few days to weeks. We offer expedited services for urgent projects.

8. Do You Offer Prototyping?

Yes, we provide prototyping services to help refine designs before moving to full-scale production.

9. What File Formats Do You Accept for Designs?

We accept various file formats, including DXF, DWG, Solidworks STP and AI. If you have a different format, please get in touch with us to confirm compatibility.

10. Is There a Minimum Order Quantity?

No, we handle orders of all sizes, from single prototypes to large production runs. We can accommodate small orders as well as bulk manufacturing.

11. What Post-Processing Services Do You Offer?

We offer additional services such as deburring, finishing, assembly, and welding to provide a complete solution for your project.

12. How Do I Get a Quote?

You can request a quote by contacting us through our website, email, or phone. Please provide details about your project, including material type, thickness, and design files for an accurate estimate.

Metal Flattening Services

1. What is Metal Flattening?

Metal flattening is the straightening or levelling of metal sheets to achieve a uniform surface. This is crucial for ensuring parts fit together accurately in assemblies.

2. Why is Metal Flattening Important?

Flattening removes warps and bends from metal sheets, improving dimensional accuracy and making further fabrication processes more accessible and more precise.

3. What Materials Can Be Flattened?

We can flatten various metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, and mild steel, in different thicknesses.

4. What Thicknesses Can Be Flattened?

We handle a range of thicknesses depending on the metal type and the required flatness. Depending on the specific model and material, they are typically capable of handling metal thicknesses ranging from as thin as 0.2 mm to as thick as 40 mm.

5. What Applications Require Metal Flattening?

Flattening is essential in construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries, where precise metal parts are critical for assembly and structural integrity.

6. How Do You Ensure Quality in Flattening?

We use advanced machinery and rigorous quality control processes to ensure all metal sheets meet flatness specifications.

7. What Are the Lead Times for Flattening Services?

Lead times vary depending on project size and complexity but typically range from a few days to a week. Expedited services are available for urgent needs.

8. Can You Handle Large-Scale Orders?

Yes, we are equipped to manage both small and large-scale orders, ensuring consistent quality across all quantities.

9. Do You Offer Additional Services Post-Flattening?

Yes, we provide additional services such as cutting, bending, and finishing to deliver a complete product ready for your application.

Metal Edge Rounding Services

1. What is Metal Edge Rounding?

Metal edge rounding involves smoothing or rounding the sharp edges of metal parts after cutting or punching. This process enhances safety, improves paint adhesion, and reduces wear on other components.

2. Why is Edge Rounding Important?

Edge rounding removes burrs and sharp edges, reducing the risk of injury during handling and ensuring a better finish, especially for parts that will be painted or coated.

3. What Materials Can Be Edge Rounded?

We can round the edges of various metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, and mild steel.

4. What Techniques Do You Use for Edge Rounding?

We use specialised machinery for precision edge rounding, ensuring consistent results across all parts.

5. Can You Handle Complex Shapes and Small Parts?

Yes, our machinery can accommodate complex geometries and small parts, ensuring every edge is rounded correctly, regardless of shape.

6. What Are the Benefits of Edge Rounding in Manufacturing?

Edge rounding improves product safety, enhances aesthetic appeal, and increases the longevity of components by reducing the chances of chipping and cracking during use.

7. Do You Offer Additional Finishing Services?

Yes, we offer additional services such as deburring, polishing, and surface treatment to complement our edge rounding capabilities.

Dull Polishing Services

1. What is Dull Polishing?

Dull polishing, or satin or brushed finish, involves polishing metal surfaces to achieve a smooth, non-reflective finish. This is often used for aesthetic purposes or for a more subdued appearance.

2. What Materials Can Be Dull Polished?

We can dull polish various metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, and mild steel, to achieve the desired finish.

3. What Are the Applications of Dull Polishing?

Dull polishing is commonly used in architectural metalwork, kitchen equipment, and any application where a low-gloss, high-quality finish is required.

4. How Does Dull Polishing Differ from Other Finishing Techniques?

Unlike mirror polishing, dull polishing produces a matte or satin, less reflective finish. This makes it ideal for parts that need to minimise glare or have a more industrial or contemporary look.

5. Can You Customise the Degree of Dullness?

Yes, we can adjust the level of dullness according to your specifications, providing a range from light satin to more pronounced matte finishes.

6. Does Dull Polishing Affect the Metal’s Durability?

Dull polishing mainly affects the surface appearance and does not compromise the structural integrity of the metal. It can also improve the metal’s resistance to wear and fingerprints.

7. What Are the Lead Times for Dull Polishing Services?

Lead times vary based on the project’s complexity and volume. Typically, you can expect completion within a few days to a week, with expedited services available for urgent projects.

8. Do You Offer Additional Finishing Services? Yes, we offer a range of additional services, such as edge rounding, deburring, and electrochemical marking, to complement our dull polishing capabilities.

Metal Laser Etching Services

1. What is Metal Laser Etching?

Metal laser etching uses a high-precision laser to create permanent marks or designs on metal surfaces. This process is ideal for adding logos, serial numbers, barcodes, or intricate patterns.

2. What Materials Can Be Laser Etched?

We can etch various metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, and brass. Each metal may require different settings to achieve optimal results.

3. What Are the Applications of Laser Etching?

Laser etching is used in automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and electronics industries for product identification, branding, and decorative purposes.

4. How Does Laser Etching Differ from Engraving?

While both processes involve marking metal, etching creates shallow marks on the surface, whereas engraving cuts more deeply into the material. Etching is faster and often preferred for delicate designs.

5. What File Formats Do You Accept for Designs?

We accept various file formats, including DXF, AI, Solidworks STP and PDF. If you have a different format, please contact us to confirm compatibility.

6. Can You Handle Custom and Complex Designs?

Yes, our laser etching machines can accommodate intricate and custom designs with high precision. We work closely with clients to ensure their specifications are met.

7. Is Laser Etching Suitable for High-Volume Production?

Laser etching is highly efficient and suitable for small-scale and large-scale production runs. Our equipment is designed to handle high volumes while maintaining consistent quality.

8. What Are the Lead Times for Laser Etching Services?

Lead times vary based on the complexity and size of the project but typically range from a few days to a couple of weeks. Expedited services are available for urgent orders.

9. What Are the Benefits of Laser Etching?

Laser etching provides a permanent, high-contrast mark resistant to wear and corrosion. It also allows for rapid processing and is cost-effective for short and long runs.

10. How Do I Get a Quote for Laser Etching?

To request a quote, contact us through our website, email, or by phone with details about your project, including material type, design specifications, and quantity.

Metal Fabrication Services

1. What is metal fabrication?
Metal fabrication is cutting, shaping, assembling, and finishing metal parts to create structures, machines, or components. It involves various techniques such as welding, laser cutting, bending, and forming to turn raw materials into functional products.

2. What materials can be used in metal fabrication?
We work with a wide range of materials, including but not limited to:

  • Stainless steel
  • Mild steel
  • Aluminium
  • Copper
  • Brass
  • Titanium

The choice of material depends on the specific requirements of your project, such as strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.

3. What types of metal fabrication services do you offer?
Our metal fabrication services include:

  • Laser Cutting: Precision cutting of metals using advanced laser technology.
  • Metal Folding: Bending and folding metal sheets to desired angles and shapes.
  • CNC Machining: Automated machining for high precision and consistency.
  • Welding: MIG, TIG, and spot welding for various metal types.
  • Metal Finishing: Surface treatments like powder coating, anodising, and polishing to enhance appearance and durability.

4. What industries do you serve?
We provide metal fabrication services to a wide range of industries, including:

  • Aerospace
  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • Electronics
  • Food processing
  • Medical devices
  • Oil & gas
  • Renewable energy

5. Can you handle custom projects?
Yes, we specialise in custom metal fabrication. Our team works closely with clients to understand their unique requirements and deliver tailor-made solutions. Whether you need a one-off prototype or large-scale production, we have the expertise and equipment to meet your needs.

6. What is the typical lead time for a project?
Lead times vary depending on the complexity and scale of the project. Standard projects usually take 1 to 4 weeks, while more complex or large-scale jobs may require additional time. We prioritise clear communication and will provide an estimated timeline after assessing your project details.

7. How do you ensure the quality of your fabricated products?
Quality is our top priority. We follow strict quality control processes, from material selection to final inspection, at every fabrication stage. Our team uses advanced measuring equipment and adheres to industry standards to ensure that each product meets the highest quality requirements.

8. Do you offer design and engineering support?
Yes, we provide design and engineering support to help bring your ideas to life. Our team can assist with CAD drawings, material selection, and optimisation of your design for manufacturability, ensuring that your project is cost-effective and functional.

9. How do I request a quote for metal fabrication services?
You can request a quote by visiting our website and filling out the contact form or by directly contacting our sales team via phone or email. Please provide as much detail as possible about your project, including materials, dimensions, and any specific requirements, to help us give an accurate estimate.

10. What are the payment terms?
Our payment terms vary depending on the scope and nature of the project. Typically, a deposit is required upon order confirmation, with the balance due upon completion. For more specific information, please discuss payment terms with our sales team during the quotation process.

11. Can you deliver fabricated products to my location?
Yes, we offer delivery services for our fabricated products. We can arrange for shipping to locations within the UK and internationally. Delivery costs and timelines will depend on the destination and the order size.

12. What certifications do you hold?
We are committed to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Our facility is ISO 9001 certified, ensuring our processes meet rigorous quality management standards. Additionally, we comply with industry-specific certifications as required by our clients. We are also EN-1090 certified.

13. Do you offer after-sales support?
Absolutely. We stand by the quality of our work and offer after-sales support to address any concerns or issues arising after delivery. Our team can assist with troubleshooting, repairs, or modifications if needed.

14. Can you provide references or examples of past projects?
Yes, we can provide references and examples of our past work upon request. Please get in touch with us to learn more about our previous projects and how our services can meet your specific needs.

Vibratory Finishing Services

1. What is vibratory finishing?
Vibratory finishing is a mass finishing process used to deburr, polish, clean, and smooth metal or other materials surfaces. This process involves placing workpieces and abrasive media into a vibratory machine, where they are subjected to a controlled vibration. This action causes the media and parts to rub together, producing the desired surface finish.

2. What materials can be processed using vibratory finishing?
Vibratory finishing can be used on a wide range of materials, including:

  • Stainless steel
  • Aluminium
  • Brass
  • Copper
  • Plastics
  • Ceramics

The process is suitable for ferrous and non-ferrous materials, and the choice of media and compound can be tailored to the specific material and desired finish.

3. What are the benefits of vibratory finishing?
The vibratory finishing process offers several advantages, including:

  • Efficient Deburring: Removes sharp edges and burrs from parts.
  • Surface Smoothing: Creates a uniform, smooth surface finish.
  • Polishing: Achieves a high-quality, polished appearance on metal surfaces.
  • Cleaning: Removes dirt, grease, and other contaminants.
  • Consistent Results: Ensures uniform treatment of all parts in the batch.

4. What types of finishes can be achieved with vibratory finishing?
Vibratory finishing can achieve various surface finishes depending on the type of media and processing time used. These include:

  • Deburred: Removal of burrs and sharp edges.
  • Polished: Smooth and shiny finish, often used for aesthetic purposes.
  • Matte: A dull, non-reflective finish.
  • Cleaned: Removal of contaminants and surface imperfections.

5. What industries use vibratory finishing?
Vibratory finishing is widely used across many industries, including:

  • Automotive
  • Aerospace
  • Medical devices
  • Electronics
  • Jewellery
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction

It is an essential process for parts that require high precision and surface quality.

6. Can vibratory finishing be used for delicate or small parts?
Yes, vibratory finishing can be adjusted to handle delicate or small parts. We can ensure that even the most intricate parts are finished without damage by selecting the appropriate media size, type, and machine settings.

7. How do you choose the right media for vibratory finishing?
The choice of media depends on several factors, including the material of the workpiece, the desired finish, and the specific application. Common media types include ceramic, plastic, steel, and organic materials such as corn cob or walnut shells. Our team can recommend the best media for your project based on your requirements.

8. What is the typical lead time for vibratory finishing services?
Lead times for vibratory finishing depend on the volume and complexity of the job. Standard processing times are typically within 3 to 7 days, but more detailed or larger batches may require additional time. After reviewing your project details, we will provide an estimated timeline.

9. Do you offer other finishing services in addition to vibratory finishing?
Yes, we offer a range of additional finishing services, including:

  • Anodising: Enhancing the surface of aluminium parts with a protective oxide layer.
  • Powder Coating: Applying a durable and decorative powder finish.
  • Electropolishing: Smoothing and brightening metal surfaces through an electrochemical process.

These services can be combined with vibratory finishing to achieve the desired surface quality and protection.

10. How do I request a quote for vibratory finishing services?
You can request a quote by visiting our website and filling out the contact form or by contacting our team directly via phone or email. Please provide details about your project, including the type of parts, material, and any specific finishing requirements, to help us provide an accurate estimate.

11. What quality standards do you adhere to?
We are committed to providing high-quality finishing services. Our processes are ISO 9001 certified, ensuring that all work meets stringent quality control standards. We conduct thorough inspections at each process stage to ensure consistent, high-quality results.

12. Can you handle large-volume orders?
Yes, we can handle both small and large-volume orders. Whether you need finishing services for a single prototype or a large production run, we have the equipment and expertise to meet your needs efficiently.

13. Do you offer after-sales support for vibratory finishing services?
Absolutely. We provide comprehensive after-sales support to ensure your satisfaction with our services. If you have any concerns or require further assistance after your parts have been processed, our team can help.

14. What are the costs associated with vibratory finishing?
The cost of vibratory finishing services varies based on factors such as the size and complexity of the parts, the type of media used, and the order volume. We strive to offer competitive pricing and will provide a detailed quote once we understand the specifics of your project.

Bead Blasting

1. What is bead blasting?

Bead blasting is a surface finishing process that uses small spherical particles (beads) propelled at high velocity to clean, polish, or texturise a material’s surface. It’s commonly used on metal, plastic, glass, and other surfaces to remove imperfections, paint, or rust and to create a uniform finish.

2. What materials can be bead blasted?

Bead blasting is versatile and can be used on a variety of materials, including:

  • Metals (aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, etc.)
  • Plastics
  • Glass
  • Wood (for specific texturing effects)

Please note: We can only offer bead blasting services on metals.

3. What are the benefits of bead blasting?

Bead blasting offers several advantages:

  • Surface Preparation: Ideal for preparing surfaces before painting or coating.
  • Cleaning: Removes contaminants like rust, old paint, and scale without damaging the material.
  • Polishing: Provides a smooth, uniform finish with a slight sheen.
  • Texturing: Creates decorative or functional textures on surfaces.
  • Non-Damaging: Less aggressive than other blasting methods, preserving the integrity of the substrate.

4. How is bead blasting different from sandblasting?

While both processes involve blasting a surface with particles, bead blasting uses rounded beads, which are less abrasive and provide a smoother finish. Sandblasting uses angular particles that are more aggressive, making it suitable for stricter cleaning jobs but potentially harsher on the material.

5. Can bead blasting remove rust or paint?

Yes, bead blasting effectively removes rust, old paint, and other surface contaminants. It cleans the surface thoroughly while leaving a smooth finish, ideal for subsequent coating or painting.

6. Is bead blasting suitable for delicate parts?

Bead blasting is gentle enough for delicate parts and can be adjusted in intensity to suit different materials and thicknesses. It’s commonly used for components that require precision, such as those in the aerospace or medical industries.

7. What finishes can be achieved with bead blasting?

Bead blasting can achieve a range of finishes, from matte to semi-glossy, depending on the bead size, material, and blasting pressure. It’s often used to create a uniform, satin-like finish on metal surfaces.

8. How long does the bead blasting process take?

The time required for bead blasting depends on the processed parts’ size, material, and complexity. Small, simple parts might take just a few minutes, while larger or more intricate pieces could take longer. We can provide an estimated timeline based on your specific needs.

9. Is bead blasting environmentally friendly?

Yes, bead blasting is considered environmentally friendly because it doesn’t involve harsh chemicals or create hazardous waste. The beads used are often recyclable, reducing environmental impact.

10. What should I do to prepare my parts for bead blasting?

Ensure that the parts are free from oils, grease, and other contaminants before sending them for bead blasting. If needed, we can provide cleaning services before blasting. Removing any loose or detachable components is also recommended.

11. Can you handle large or high-volume projects?

Yes, we can manage small—and large-scale projects, including high-volume orders. Our facility is equipped with the latest technology to ensure efficiency and quality regardless of project size.

12. What information must I provide for a bead blasting quote?

To provide an accurate quote, we need details such as:

  • Material type and condition
  • Dimensions and quantity of parts
  • Desired finish
  • Any specific requirements or concerns

13. Do you offer any other surface finishing services?

In addition to bead blasting, we offer various surface finishing services, including sandblasting, polishing, and coating. Contact us to discuss your specific needs and we can recommend the best solution.

Custom Metal Design, Assembly, and Construction Services

1. What materials can Wrightform work with? Wrightform specialises in a wide range of metals, including stainless steel, mild steel, aluminium, copper, brass, and more.

2. What types of services does Wrightform offer? We can offer full design, assembly, and construction of custom projects tailored to customer specifications and specific application needs.

3. How does Wrightform handle custom machinery design and construction? Wrightform collaborates closely with clients to design, assemble, and construct projects that meets precise specifications and application requirements. We can leverage our extensive expertise and state-of-the-art technology to deliver custom solutions that optimise performance and meet industry standards.

4. Is Wrightform certified for quality and safety standards? Yes, Wrightform is EN1090 exec 2 certified, ensuring that their design, fabrication, and assembly processes meet rigorous quality and safety standards, making them a trusted partner for complex projects.

5. Why should I choose Wrightform for my custom metal design, assembly, and machinery construction needs? Choosing Wrightform gives you access to specialised expertise in both metal fabrication and custom assembly projects. Our commitment to quality, advanced technology, and customer satisfaction ensures that you receive machinery that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Our full-service approach, from initial design to final assembly, provides a seamless experience for clients across various industries.