{"id":23368,"date":"2025-12-11T23:29:15","date_gmt":"2025-12-12T07:29:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/?p=23368"},"modified":"2025-12-11T23:45:44","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T07:45:44","slug":"food-grade-sheet-metal-fabrication-standards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/food-grade-sheet-metal-fabrication-standards\/","title":{"rendered":"Food-Grade Sheet Metal Fabrication Standards \u2014 Hygienic Design and Compliance Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"23368\" class=\"elementor elementor-23368\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-5b6ea20c elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"5b6ea20c\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-3790511b elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"3790511b\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-43a4aed8 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"43a4aed8\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-30ddf89f elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"30ddf89f\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-2b7cf718 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"2b7cf718\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-6597b613 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"6597b613\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-55c4e4fb custom-ele-section-css elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"55c4e4fb\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-66 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-3aaf7c8f\" data-id=\"3aaf7c8f\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2e69856 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2e69856\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Food-grade sheet metal fabrication is at the heart of every reliable food-processing system. In this field, each bend, weld, and surface finish directly affects hygiene and performance. \u201cFood-grade\u201d is not just a marketing term\u2014it represents a strict commitment to sanitary design, corrosion-resistant materials, and verifiable safety standards.<\/p><p>When contamination incidents can lead to recalls or production shutdowns, fabricators must combine engineering precision with hygiene discipline. Understanding the regulations, materials, and fabrication rules behind food-grade manufacturing is the first step toward building equipment that performs safely and lasts longer.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ab5dbf7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"ab5dbf7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-Standards.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23378\" alt=\"Food Grade Sheet Metal Fabrication Standards\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-Standards.jpg 500w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-Standards-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-Standards-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dfc3924 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"dfc3924\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What \u201cFood-Grade\u201d Means in Sheet Metal Fabrication\uff1f<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>The term \u201cfood-grade\u201d does not describe a single material or finish. It describes whether a fabricated part is safe to use in food processing environments. Food-grade fabrication focuses on how metal parts interact with food, liquids, and cleaning agents. The goal is to prevent contamination during normal operation and cleaning cycles.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Food-grade fabrication defines how metal components interact with food environments. According to global hygiene frameworks, every piece of equipment is divided into three functional zones:<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Direct-contact surfaces:<\/strong> Areas that physically touch food, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/stainless-steel-trays\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trays<\/a>, tanks, or conveyors. These must use certified alloys (e.g., 304 or 316 stainless steel) and maintain a surface roughness (Ra) \u2264 0.8 \u00b5m for cleanability.<\/li> <li><strong>Splash zones:<\/strong> Surfaces exposed to food particles, vapor, or liquids. These require similar smoothness and resistance to cleaning chemicals but may allow slightly different geometries for accessibility.<\/li> <li><strong>Non-contact areas:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/sheet-metal-frame\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Frames<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/sheet-metal-enclosure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">enclosures<\/a> that support the machine. These still need corrosion resistance and easy cleaning, but can use cost-effective materials if properly isolated.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>General industrial fabrication rules are not enough for food environments. Even small weld pits or micro-gaps can trap residue, leading to bacterial growth or metal corrosion. Food-grade design, therefore, demands continuous welds, smooth transitions, and a documented approach to material handling and cleanliness.<\/p><p><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f3152d5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f3152d5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23377\" alt=\"Food Grade Sheet Metal Fabrication\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication.jpg 400w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Food-Grade-Sheet-Metal-Fabrication-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5a1ec4a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5a1ec4a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Regulatory and Industry Frameworks<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>Food equipment must meet strict hygiene regulations across regions. Understanding these frameworks helps manufacturers design compliant systems and avoid costly production or audit issues.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Global Food-Safety Standards<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Food-grade equipment must comply with international hygiene standards governing design, materials, and surface finishes. In the U.S., the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture), and the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) enforce the main regulations. The FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) emphasizes prevention over reaction\u2014designing out risks before they occur.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>In Europe, EN 1672-2 and ISO 14159 define hygienic design principles for machinery used in food processing. These focus on corrosion resistance, easy cleaning access, and the avoidance of liquid entrapment. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific regions follow HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) guidelines to identify and control contamination hazards during production.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Understanding these frameworks ensures that your fabricated components meet both domestic and export compliance requirements. As one EHEDG guideline states, <em>\u201cHygienic design is a preventive control, not a retrofit.\u201d<\/em> Meeting these expectations reduces audit risk and reinforces credibility in global supply chains.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Certification and Audit Requirements<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Compliance does not stop at design\u2014it extends to verification. Fabricators producing food-grade components are often audited by third parties to confirm adherence to hygienic manufacturing standards. Certifications such as NSF\/ANSI 51 (Food Equipment Materials) or 3-A Sanitary Standards confirm that equipment can withstand repeated washdowns, steam sterilization, and chemical cleaning without degradation.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Each project should include a clear audit trail. Typical documentation includes:<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Material Certificates (EN 10204 Type 3.1):<\/strong> Traceability of each metal sheet back to its mill origin.<\/li> <li><strong>Weld Procedure Qualification Records (WPQR):<\/strong> Proof that welds meet sanitary and mechanical criteria.<\/li> <li><strong>Surface Finish Reports:<\/strong> Measurements verifying Ra \u2264 0.8 \u00b5m for food-contact areas.<\/li> <li><strong>Cleaning Validation Logs:<\/strong> Evidence that components can be fully sanitized with approved detergents.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>Maintaining this documentation not only satisfies auditors but also reassures clients that hygiene and traceability are engineered into every stage of production.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Regulatory compliance is more than paperwork\u2014it\u2019s a safeguard against contamination, recalls, and lost consumer trust. A verified hygienic process strengthens long-term partnerships with food-equipment OEMs and global buyers.<\/p><p> <\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Material Selection for Food-Grade Applications<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>Choosing the right metal determines how long equipment stays safe and corrosion-free. Each alloy and finish affects hygiene, durability, and cleaning efficiency in food-contact environments.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stainless Steel Grades and Their Roles<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Selecting the right metal is the foundation of safe food equipment. Stainless steel remains the top choice for its corrosion resistance, cleanliness, and inert chemical behavior.<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Type 304<\/strong> offers strong resistance to oxidation and organic acids\u2014ideal for dry food or general processing equipment.<\/li> <li><strong>Type 316<\/strong>, enhanced with molybdenum, provides superior defense against chlorides and harsh cleaning agents used in dairy or seafood industries.<\/li> <li><strong>Low-carbon variants (304L\/316L)<\/strong> minimize carbide precipitation during welding, ensuring the passive layer remains intact.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>Using improper metals can lead to pitting, discoloration, or rust\u2014issues that compromise both hygiene and mechanical integrity. For non-contact areas, coated steel or aluminum may be acceptable, but they must never be exposed to food or cleaning chemicals.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Design Tip:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Choose 316L for systems exposed to salt, milk, or chemical cleaners. Though slightly costlier, it reduces long-term maintenance and the frequency of re-polishing.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Surface Treatment and Finish Quality<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Surface smoothness is central to sanitation. Rough or porous textures harbor bacteria and resist cleaning. For food-contact zones, a surface roughness (Ra) of \u2264 0.8 \u00b5m (32 \u00b5in) is the industry benchmark; high-risk equipment may require Ra \u2264 0.4 \u00b5m after electropolishing.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Common finishing processes include:<\/p><p><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-90695be uael-header-sticky-no uael-border-yes elementor-widget elementor-widget-uael-table\" data-id=\"90695be\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"uael-table.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div itemscope class=\"uael-table-wrapper\" itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/Table\">\n\t\t\t<table id=\"uael-table-id-90695be\" class=\"uael-text-break uael-column-rules uael-table\" data-sort-table=\"no\" data-show-entry=\"no\" data-searchable=\"no\" data-responsive=\"no\">\n\t\t\t<thead>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<tr class=\"uael-table-row\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<th data-sort=\"0\" class=\"sort-this elementor-repeater-item-0 uael-table-col uael-table-head-cell-text\" scope=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sort-style\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Finish Type<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/th>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<th data-sort=\"1\" class=\"sort-this elementor-repeater-item-1 uael-table-col uael-table-head-cell-text\" scope=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sort-style\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Typical Ra (\u00b5m)<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/th>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<th data-sort=\"2\" class=\"sort-this elementor-repeater-item-2 uael-table-col uael-table-head-cell-text\" scope=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sort-style\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Cleanability<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/th>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<th data-sort=\"3\" class=\"sort-this elementor-repeater-item-3 uael-table-col uael-table-head-cell-text\" scope=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"sort-style\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Common Use<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/th>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/tr>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/thead>\n\t\t\t<tbody>\n\t\t\t\t<!-- ROWS -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<tr data-entry=\"1\" class=\"uael-table-row\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-0\" data-title=\"\ufeffFinish Type\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">2B Mill Finish<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-1\" data-title=\"Typical Ra (\u00b5m)\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">0.3\u20130.5<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-2\" data-title=\"Cleanability\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Good<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-3\" data-title=\"Common Use\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">General enclosures<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/tr>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<tr data-entry=\"2\" class=\"uael-table-row\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-0 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-0\" data-title=\"\ufeffFinish Type\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Brushed #4<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-1 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-1\" data-title=\"Typical Ra (\u00b5m)\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">1.0\u20131.2<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-2 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-2\" data-title=\"Cleanability\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Moderate<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-3 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-3\" data-title=\"Common Use\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">External panels<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/tr>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<tr data-entry=\"3\" class=\"uael-table-row\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-0 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-0 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-0\" data-title=\"\ufeffFinish Type\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Electropolished<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-1 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-1 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-1\" data-title=\"Typical Ra (\u00b5m)\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">\u22640.4<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-2 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-2 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-2\" data-title=\"Cleanability\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Excellent<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<td class=\"uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-3 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-3 uael-table-col uael-table-body-cell-text elementor-repeater-item-3\" data-title=\"Common Use\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-table__text-inner\">Food-contact zones<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/td>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/tr>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/tbody>\n\t\t<\/table>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-92483f7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"92483f7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/metal-passivation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Passivation<\/a> removes free iron and rebuilds the chromium oxide layer, while electropolishing smooths microscopic peaks and reduces surface roughness by 30\u201350%. Both treatments improve corrosion resistance and enhance sanitization efficiency.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Paints and coatings are rarely allowed in contact zones\u2014they can peel or leach contaminants into food. The best long-term protection is a clean, passivated stainless-steel surface maintained through proper cleaning protocols.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Surface finish is not aesthetic\u2014it\u2019s a hygiene barrier. The smoother and cleaner the surface, the less risk of bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation.<\/p><p> <\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fabrication Practices That Maintain Sanitation<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>Even high-quality stainless steel can fail if fabrication isn\u2019t hygienically controlled. Clean processes, precise welding, and contamination prevention define whether a part remains food-safe over time.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Welding and Joint Design<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>In sanitary fabrication, welding quality is both a structural and hygiene requirement. <a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/tig-welding\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TIG<\/a> is preferred because it produces smooth, continuous joints without slag or spatter. Unlike MIG or spot welding, TIG forms uniform beads that prevent microbial traps.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Key principles for food-grade welding:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>All welds must be continuous, fully penetrated, and smooth\u2014no pits, cracks, or overlaps.<\/li> <li>Inside corners should use large radii rather than sharp angles to allow full cleaning.<\/li> <li>Fasteners in food zones should be minimized or sealed to prevent the buildup of residue.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>After welding, the parts undergo pickling to remove oxides and discoloration, followed by passivation to restore the stainless steel\u2019s protective chromium oxide layer. This process increases corrosion resistance and surface purity.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Where inspection is critical, welds are tested using dye-penetrant or borescope methods to detect porosity or inclusions invisible to the eye. Each weld log should record operator credentials, settings, and post-treatment status\u2014ensuring full traceability during audits.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>A single rough weld can collect residue and compromise product safety. Seamless, polished joints are the backbone of food-grade integrity.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Forming, Cutting, and Assembly Considerations<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Hygienic manufacturing extends beyond welding. Each forming and cutting process must prevent contamination and preserve surface quality.<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Dedicated stainless-steel work zones<\/strong> prevent cross-contamination with carbon steel, which can cause rust spots on finished parts.<\/li> <li><strong>Clean tooling and lubrication<\/strong> reduce particle buildup during bending or punching.<\/li> <li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/laser-cutting-a-comprehensive-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Laser cutting<\/a><\/strong> is preferred over plasma for food-grade projects\u2014it produces burr-free edges and minimal heat tint, reducing polishing time.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>During assembly, controlled handling is crucial. Operators wear gloves, and all surfaces are wiped with alcohol or approved cleaning solutions. When dissimilar metals must connect, nylon washers or PTFE gaskets isolate contact points to prevent galvanic corrosion.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Only FDA-approved adhesives and sealants may be used in splash or contact zones. Any bonded joint must withstand hot-water cleaning, caustic solutions, and steam exposure without leaching chemicals.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Design Tip:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Always locate mechanical fasteners outside the product contact zone. If unavoidable, use sanitary bolts with domed heads and silicone seals.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Controlled Environment and Quality Monitoring<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Final assembly for food-grade equipment often takes place in controlled or positive-pressure environments. These clean areas use HEPA filtration to remove airborne contaminants, ensuring the final product is free from oil residue, dust, or fiber particles.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>In-process inspections verify:<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Weld integrity<\/strong> through non-destructive testing (NDT).<\/li> <li><strong>Surface roughness<\/strong> (Ra \u2264 0.8 \u00b5m for food-contact, \u22641.2 \u00b5m for splash zones).<\/li> <li><strong>Edge smoothness<\/strong> and lack of burrs from cutting or bending.<\/li> <li><strong>Residue-free cleanliness<\/strong>, confirmed by ATP testing or chemical swab sampling.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>All findings are documented for traceability. A consistent quality record\u2014from raw sheet to final shipment\u2014creates confidence during customer audits and ensures every unit meets repeatable hygienic standards.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Clean environments are the invisible guarantee of safety. Even perfect welds and finishes can fail if exposed to contamination during final assembly.<\/p><p><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4674b5c elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"4674b5c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/laser-cutting-stainless-steel.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23376\" alt=\"laser cutting stainless steel\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/laser-cutting-stainless-steel.jpg 576w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/laser-cutting-stainless-steel-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/laser-cutting-stainless-steel-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4b4748a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4b4748a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Design for Cleanability and Maintenance<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>Smart design decisions at the CAD stage determine how easily a machine can be cleaned, inspected, and serviced in real-world production.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hygienic Design Principles<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>The goal of hygienic design is simple: eliminate places where moisture, residue, or bacteria can hide. Smooth geometry is the first defense against contamination.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Core design guidelines include:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Sloped surfaces<\/strong> (\u22653\u00b0) for self-draining during washdown.<\/li> <li><strong>Rounded corners<\/strong> instead of sharp 90\u00b0 angles.<\/li> <li><strong>No dead ends<\/strong> or horizontal ledges that collect debris.<\/li> <li><strong>Avoid hollow supports<\/strong>; use open profiles or capped tubes to prevent moisture from becoming trapped.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>Whenever possible, welded seams replace bolted joints. For removable components, use sanitary quick-release clamps or tri-clamp fittings that allow tool-free disassembly for cleaning.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Frames should be elevated off the floor for easier washdown access. Equipment that integrates these principles not only passes inspection but also reduces cleaning time\u2014an important operational advantage.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>A well-designed system cleans faster, lasts longer, and minimizes chemical use. Hygienic geometry is the best investment for productivity and safety.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ease of Inspection and Maintenance<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Maintenance-friendly design ensures consistent sanitation without costly downtime. Operators must be able to inspect and clean all food-contact areas daily.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Effective design solutions include:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Removable covers and panels<\/strong> for fast internal access.<\/li> <li><strong>Transparent shields or inspection windows<\/strong> to visually verify cleanliness.<\/li> <li><strong>Modular sections<\/strong> that can be replaced without breaking weld seams.<\/li> <li><strong>Tool-free fasteners and quick clamps<\/strong> that shorten disassembly cycles.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>Routine cleaning validation can then be performed using UV lights, cameras, or ATP test kits to confirm cleanliness after washdown.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Design Tip:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Consider maintenance during early design. A 15-minute faster cleaning cycle each day can save dozens of production hours annually.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Cleanability and maintainability directly influence equipment uptime and sanitation compliance. The easier a system is to inspect, the safer and more reliable it will remain.<\/p><p> <\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Testing, Validation, and Quality Control<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>Even the cleanest fabrication process must be verified before it\u2019s considered food-grade. Inspection, validation, and documentation ensure that every component meets sanitary, structural, and regulatory standards.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inspection Methods<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Inspection begins before the first weld is made and continues until shipment. Each food-grade component is checked for surface finish, geometry, and cleanliness to confirm compliance with hygienic standards.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Key quality checks include:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Surface roughness measurement:<\/strong> Profilometers confirm Ra \u2264 0.8 \u00b5m (or \u22640.4 \u00b5m for critical areas). A smoother surface minimizes bacterial adhesion.<\/li> <li><strong>Visual and microscopic weld inspection:<\/strong> Detects undercuts, pores, or cracks that could trap residue.<\/li> <li><strong>Dye penetrant or borescope testing:<\/strong> Reveals hidden porosity or incomplete fusion.<\/li> <li><strong>Dimensional validation:<\/strong> CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) checks verify tight tolerances for seamless assembly and proper drain angles.<\/li> <li><strong>Residue testing:<\/strong> ATP or chemical-swab tests ensure no oils, polishing compounds, or fingerprints remain on contact surfaces.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Inspection validates what drawings cannot show\u2014surface cleanliness and hygienic integrity. Each measurement protects end users from contamination risks.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Process Validation and Documentation<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Food-grade certification depends on process control as much as product quality. Manufacturers often follow structured validation programs modeled after FAI (First Article Inspection) or PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) systems used in the medical and automotive industries.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Every fabrication stage must produce a traceable record, including:<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Material certificates (EN 10204 3.1):<\/strong> Chemical composition and source verification.<\/li> <li><strong>Weld logs and WPS\/WPQR records:<\/strong> Details on operators, filler metals, gas composition, and heat input.<\/li> <li><strong>Surface finish reports:<\/strong> Documented Ra values after polishing or electropolishing.<\/li> <li><strong>Passivation and cleaning validation sheets:<\/strong> Confirm post-treatment and neutralization of acids.<\/li> <li><strong>Final inspection checklist:<\/strong> Signed by quality engineers before packaging.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>Digital traceability systems now automate this record-keeping, linking each batch number to its raw material and inspection data. This transparency simplifies FDA or NSF audits and reassures OEM customers of full compliance.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Design Tip:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Build documentation alongside production, not afterward. Retrofitted paperwork often leads to missing or inconsistent records.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hygiene Verification After Assembly<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Validation does not end with fabrication\u2014it extends into real-world cleaning and operational testing.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Final-stage hygiene verification includes:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Washdown simulation:<\/strong> Testing water drainage and confirming all surfaces are dry within minutes without pooling.<\/li> <li><strong>Chemical resistance tests:<\/strong> Exposing stainless samples to caustic cleaners or steam sterilization to check for pitting or discoloration.<\/li> <li><strong>Operational contamination check:<\/strong> Swabbing surfaces after cleaning cycles to ensure no biological residues remain.<\/li> <li><strong>Packaging inspection:<\/strong> Finished assemblies are wrapped in polyethylene and sealed in clean environments to prevent contamination during shipping.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>When the product passes these trials, a Certificate of Conformance (CoC) or Sanitary Compliance Report can be issued to the buyer, providing traceable proof that all hygienic and mechanical standards are met.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>Testing verifies that equipment performs under real cleaning and production conditions\u2014not just on paper. It\u2019s the final safeguard before the system enters a food facility.<\/p><p> <\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choosing the Right Food-Grade Fabricator<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>Building food-safe equipment requires more than technical skills\u2014it demands a culture of hygiene and documentation discipline.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Evaluation Criteria<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>When selecting a fabrication partner, buyers should look beyond quotations and focus on hygienic experience and verification systems. A qualified fabricator will have:<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Proven track record with food, dairy, or pharmaceutical projects.<\/li> <li>Dedicated stainless-steel workshops are separated from carbon steel fabrication.<\/li> <li>Certified TIG welders and polishing technicians trained in sanitary standards.<\/li> <li>In-house capability for Ra measurement, NDT inspection, and passivation.<\/li> <li>Documented quality management systems (ISO 9001 or equivalent).<\/li> <li>Transparent inspection and traceability reports are provided with every shipment.<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p><strong>Why it matters:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>A strong partner reduces design risk, ensures compliance, and shortens audit preparation time. Buyers gain reliability from both the process and the people behind it.<\/p><p> <\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Questions to Ask Before Contracting<\/h3><p> <\/p><p>Practical questions can reveal whether a supplier truly operates at a food-grade level:<\/p><p> <\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>What certifications and hygiene standards do you follow (NSF, 3-A, EN 1672-2)?<\/li> <li>Can you provide material and surface finish certificates with each batch?<\/li> <li>How do you prevent cross-contamination between carbon-steel and stainless-steel production?<\/li> <li>Are your welders trained and certified in TIG sanitary welding?<\/li> <li>What inspection methods and documentation will I receive with my order?<\/li> <li>Can you assist with the design for cleanability during the engineering phase?<\/li><\/ul><p> <\/p><p>Fabricators who answer confidently\u2014and support their claims with reports or sample parts\u2014demonstrate the competence needed for consistent, audit-ready production.<\/p><p> <\/p><p><strong>Design Tip:<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p>During supplier visits, inspect their shop layout. A clean, well-organized stainless area is a visible sign of hygienic discipline.<\/p><p> <\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2><p> <\/p><p>Food-grade sheet metal fabrication is more than building with stainless steel. It\u2019s a complete system of design precision, validated processes, and hygienic awareness that keeps food equipment safe and reliable for years of operation.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>Every weld, surface, and joint serves a hygienic function. Standards like FDA, NSF\/ANSI 51, and ISO 14159 define the baseline, but achieving real-world compliance requires more careful geometry, smooth finishes, verified documentation, and disciplined inspection.<\/p><p> <\/p><p>If your project involves food processing, beverage packaging, or sanitary equipment, a trusted fabrication partner is your greatest asset. <a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Upload your CAD files or contact Shengen\u2019s engineering team<\/a> for a free DFM and hygiene compliance review.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-498e9dfa\" data-id=\"498e9dfa\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-61406ecc elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"61406ecc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Hey, I'm Kevin Lee<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-28fab81e elementor-widget__width-initial elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"28fab81e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee.webp\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-6422\" alt=\"Kevin Lee\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee.webp 1024w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee-300x240.webp 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee-768x614.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5eec6ec7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5eec6ec7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>\u00a0<\/p><p>For the past 10 years, I&#8217;ve been immersed in various forms of sheet metal fabrication, sharing cool insights here from my experiences across diverse workshops.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1b5f3212 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"1b5f3212\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/about-author\/\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">ABOUT ME<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3063e35e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3063e35e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\"> Get in touch<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element 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Quote<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/button>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"trp-form-language\" value=\"en_gb\"\/><\/form>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-74857c7e elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"74857c7e\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-3d65494c elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"3d65494c\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-8448b70 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"8448b70\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-3241f0df custom-ele-section-css elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"3241f0df\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-25 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-193cffc5\" data-id=\"193cffc5\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-7488cc31\" data-id=\"7488cc31\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-7d7df626 custom-ele-section-css elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"7d7df626\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-5e8a5434\" data-id=\"5e8a5434\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-130369dc elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"130369dc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee.webp\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-6422\" alt=\"Kevin Lee\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee.webp 1024w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee-300x240.webp 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Kevin-Lee-768x614.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-432ab9f5\" data-id=\"432ab9f5\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-18fdca78 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"18fdca78\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Kevin Lee<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d008469 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d008469\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>I have over ten years of professional experience in sheet metal fabrication, specializing in laser cutting, bending, welding, and surface treatment techniques. As the Technical Director at Shengen, I am committed to solving complex manufacturing challenges and driving innovation and quality in each project.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-25 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-427acd28\" data-id=\"427acd28\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-4447fd99 custom-ele-section-css elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"4447fd99\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-64766e3b\" data-id=\"64766e3b\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7f0255a1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7f0255a1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Related Resource<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4859107d uael-post__link-complete-yes uael-equal__height-yes elementor-widget elementor-widget-uael-posts\" data-id=\"4859107d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;classic_slides_to_show&quot;:4,&quot;classic_slides_to_show_tablet&quot;:2,&quot;classic_slides_to_show_mobile&quot;:1,&quot;classic_pagination_type&quot;:&quot;ajax&quot;,&quot;classic_show_filters&quot;:&quot;no&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"uael-posts.classic\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__body\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"uael-blog-terms-position- uael-post-image-top uael-post-grid uael-posts\" data-query-type=\"custom\" data-structure=\"normal\" data-layout=\"\" data-page=\"23368\" data-skin=\"classic\" data-filter-default=\"\" data-offset-top=\"30\" >\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post-grid__inner uael-post__columns-4 uael-post__columns-tablet-2 uael-post__columns-mobile-1\">\n\t\t\t\n<div class=\"uael-post-wrapper   blog\">\n\t<div class=\"uael-post__bg-wrap uael-bg-wrap-disabled\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/fillet-machining\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"uael-post__complete-box-overlay\" aria-label=\"Link Complete Box\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__inner-wrap uael-inner-wrap-disabled\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__thumbnail\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/fillet-machining\/\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Fillet Machining: What Drives Cost and Part Quality\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"419\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Why-Tight-Internal-Fillets-Get-Expensive.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-24569\" alt=\"Why Tight Internal Fillets Get Expensive\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Why-Tight-Internal-Fillets-Get-Expensive.jpg 750w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Why-Tight-Internal-Fillets-Get-Expensive-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Why-Tight-Internal-Fillets-Get-Expensive-18x10.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__content-wrap uael-content-wrap-disabled\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"uael-post__title\">\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/fillet-machining\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\tFillet Machining: What Drives Cost and Part Quality\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__meta-data\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__date\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-calendar\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M12 192h424c6.6 0 12 5.4 12 12v260c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48H48c-26.5 0-48-21.5-48-48V204c0-6.6 5.4-12 12-12zm436-44v-36c0-26.5-21.5-48-48-48h-48V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H160V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H48C21.5 64 0 85.5 0 112v36c0 6.6 5.4 12 12 12h424c6.6 0 12-5.4 12-12z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t13 April 2026\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__comments\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-comments\" viewbox=\"0 0 576 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 192c0-88.4-93.1-160-208-160S0 103.6 0 192c0 34.3 14.1 65.9 38 92-13.4 30.2-35.5 54.2-35.8 54.5-2.2 2.3-2.8 5.7-1.5 8.7S4.8 352 8 352c36.6 0 66.9-12.3 88.7-25 32.2 15.7 70.3 25 111.3 25 114.9 0 208-71.6 208-160zm122 220c23.9-26 38-57.7 38-92 0-66.9-53.5-124.2-129.3-148.1.9 6.6 1.3 13.3 1.3 20.1 0 105.9-107.7 192-240 192-10.8 0-21.3-.8-31.7-1.9C207.8 439.6 281.8 480 368 480c41 0 79.1-9.2 111.3-25 21.8 12.7 52.1 25 88.7 25 3.2 0 6.1-1.9 7.3-4.8 1.3-2.9.7-6.3-1.5-8.7-.3-.3-22.4-24.2-35.8-54.5z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo Comments\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"uael-post__read-more elementor-button\" href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/fillet-machining\/\" target=\"_blank\" aria-labelledby=\"uael-post-24568\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-icon elementor-align-icon-left\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\" id=\"uael-post-24568\">Readmore<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"uael-post-wrapper   blog\">\n\t<div class=\"uael-post__bg-wrap uael-bg-wrap-disabled\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/fingerprint-resistant-stainless-steel\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"uael-post__complete-box-overlay\" aria-label=\"Link Complete Box\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__inner-wrap uael-inner-wrap-disabled\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div 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\/><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__content-wrap uael-content-wrap-disabled\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"uael-post__title\">\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/fingerprint-resistant-stainless-steel\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\tFingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel: How It Works,and How to Choose\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__meta-data\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__date\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-calendar\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M12 192h424c6.6 0 12 5.4 12 12v260c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48H48c-26.5 0-48-21.5-48-48V204c0-6.6 5.4-12 12-12zm436-44v-36c0-26.5-21.5-48-48-48h-48V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H160V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H48C21.5 64 0 85.5 0 112v36c0 6.6 5.4 12 12 12h424c6.6 0 12-5.4 12-12z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t12 March 2026\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__comments\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-comments\" viewbox=\"0 0 576 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 192c0-88.4-93.1-160-208-160S0 103.6 0 192c0 34.3 14.1 65.9 38 92-13.4 30.2-35.5 54.2-35.8 54.5-2.2 2.3-2.8 5.7-1.5 8.7S4.8 352 8 352c36.6 0 66.9-12.3 88.7-25 32.2 15.7 70.3 25 111.3 25 114.9 0 208-71.6 208-160zm122 220c23.9-26 38-57.7 38-92 0-66.9-53.5-124.2-129.3-148.1.9 6.6 1.3 13.3 1.3 20.1 0 105.9-107.7 192-240 192-10.8 0-21.3-.8-31.7-1.9C207.8 439.6 281.8 480 368 480c41 0 79.1-9.2 111.3-25 21.8 12.7 52.1 25 88.7 25 3.2 0 6.1-1.9 7.3-4.8 1.3-2.9.7-6.3-1.5-8.7-.3-.3-22.4-24.2-35.8-54.5z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo Comments\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"uael-post__read-more elementor-button\" 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href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/oem-vs-contract-manufacturing\/\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"OEM vs Contract Manufacturing: How to Choose the Right Model for Your Project\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"409\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/A-Finished-Drawing-Does-Not-Always-Mean-a-Production-Safe-Job.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-24371\" alt=\"A Finished Drawing Does Not Always Mean a Production Safe Job\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/A-Finished-Drawing-Does-Not-Always-Mean-a-Production-Safe-Job.jpg 750w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/A-Finished-Drawing-Does-Not-Always-Mean-a-Production-Safe-Job-300x164.jpg 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/A-Finished-Drawing-Does-Not-Always-Mean-a-Production-Safe-Job-18x10.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__content-wrap uael-content-wrap-disabled\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"uael-post__title\">\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/oem-vs-contract-manufacturing\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\tOEM vs Contract Manufacturing: How to Choose the Right Model for Your Project\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__meta-data\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__date\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-calendar\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M12 192h424c6.6 0 12 5.4 12 12v260c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48H48c-26.5 0-48-21.5-48-48V204c0-6.6 5.4-12 12-12zm436-44v-36c0-26.5-21.5-48-48-48h-48V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H160V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H48C21.5 64 0 85.5 0 112v36c0 6.6 5.4 12 12 12h424c6.6 0 12-5.4 12-12z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t9 March 2026\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__comments\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-comments\" viewbox=\"0 0 576 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 192c0-88.4-93.1-160-208-160S0 103.6 0 192c0 34.3 14.1 65.9 38 92-13.4 30.2-35.5 54.2-35.8 54.5-2.2 2.3-2.8 5.7-1.5 8.7S4.8 352 8 352c36.6 0 66.9-12.3 88.7-25 32.2 15.7 70.3 25 111.3 25 114.9 0 208-71.6 208-160zm122 220c23.9-26 38-57.7 38-92 0-66.9-53.5-124.2-129.3-148.1.9 6.6 1.3 13.3 1.3 20.1 0 105.9-107.7 192-240 192-10.8 0-21.3-.8-31.7-1.9C207.8 439.6 281.8 480 368 480c41 0 79.1-9.2 111.3-25 21.8 12.7 52.1 25 88.7 25 3.2 0 6.1-1.9 7.3-4.8 1.3-2.9.7-6.3-1.5-8.7-.3-.3-22.4-24.2-35.8-54.5z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo Comments\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"uael-post__read-more elementor-button\" href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/oem-vs-contract-manufacturing\/\" 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href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/setup-cost-vs-unit-cost-in-sheet-metal-manufacturing\/\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Setup Cost vs Unit Cost in Sheet Metal Manufacturing\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Setup-Cost-vs-Unit-Cost.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-24239\" alt=\"Setup Cost vs Unit Cost\" srcset=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Setup-Cost-vs-Unit-Cost.jpg 750w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Setup-Cost-vs-Unit-Cost-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Setup-Cost-vs-Unit-Cost-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__content-wrap uael-content-wrap-disabled\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"uael-post__title\">\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/setup-cost-vs-unit-cost-in-sheet-metal-manufacturing\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\tSetup Cost vs Unit Cost in Sheet Metal Manufacturing\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__meta-data\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__date\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-calendar\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M12 192h424c6.6 0 12 5.4 12 12v260c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48H48c-26.5 0-48-21.5-48-48V204c0-6.6 5.4-12 12-12zm436-44v-36c0-26.5-21.5-48-48-48h-48V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H160V12c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-40c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v52H48C21.5 64 0 85.5 0 112v36c0 6.6 5.4 12 12 12h424c6.6 0 12-5.4 12-12z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t6 February 2026\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-post__comments\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fa-comments\" viewbox=\"0 0 576 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 192c0-88.4-93.1-160-208-160S0 103.6 0 192c0 34.3 14.1 65.9 38 92-13.4 30.2-35.5 54.2-35.8 54.5-2.2 2.3-2.8 5.7-1.5 8.7S4.8 352 8 352c36.6 0 66.9-12.3 88.7-25 32.2 15.7 70.3 25 111.3 25 114.9 0 208-71.6 208-160zm122 220c23.9-26 38-57.7 38-92 0-66.9-53.5-124.2-129.3-148.1.9 6.6 1.3 13.3 1.3 20.1 0 105.9-107.7 192-240 192-10.8 0-21.3-.8-31.7-1.9C207.8 439.6 281.8 480 368 480c41 0 79.1-9.2 111.3-25 21.8 12.7 52.1 25 88.7 25 3.2 0 6.1-1.9 7.3-4.8 1.3-2.9.7-6.3-1.5-8.7-.3-.3-22.4-24.2-35.8-54.5z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNo Comments\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"uael-post__read-more elementor-button\" href=\"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/setup-cost-vs-unit-cost-in-sheet-metal-manufacturing\/\" target=\"_blank\" aria-labelledby=\"uael-post-24235\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-icon elementor-align-icon-left\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\" id=\"uael-post-24235\">Readmore<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"uael-post__footer\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Food-grade sheet metal fabrication is at the heart of every reliable food-processing system. In this field, each bend, weld, and surface finish directly affects hygiene and performance. \u201cFood-grade\u201d is not just a marketing term\u2014it represents a strict commitment to sanitary design, corrosion-resistant materials, and verifiable safety standards. When contamination incidents can lead to recalls or [&hellip;]<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":23375,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22],"tags":[15],"class_list":["post-23368","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","tag-sheet-metal-fabrication"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23368","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23368"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23368\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23375"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23368"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23368"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shengenfab.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23368"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}