Put most simply, structural steel bending links to the construction supply chain by connecting with the structural steel fabricator. Profile bending is a service subcontracted by structural steel fabricators, if required for a given project, just as galvanizing, painting, coating, and fire protection are similarly outsourced.
The fabricators purchase steel from the inventory of a service center or directly from steel mills and HSS (hollow structural section) producers. Fabricators also purchase fasteners, deck, joists and other components.
Working with detailers who develop piece drawings, fabricators process the steel by cutting material to length, welding on end plates, and punching bolt holes–to cite just a few of their operations. Once fabricated, the material is shipped to an erector who provides erection at the job site.
