In industries like power generation, oil and gas, and chemical processing, one-size-fits-all solutions are often not enough. These sectors operate on massive scales with unique challenges that require highly specialized components — designed and built to precise specifications. That’s where custom metal fabrication comes into play.
At Boardman Inc., we specialize in delivering custom-fabricated metal structures and components that meet the demanding requirements of large-scale industrial projects. In this post, we’ll explore how custom metal fabrication is not just a convenience — but a critical necessity — in today’s industrial landscape.
What Is Custom Metal Fabrication?
Custom metal fabrication involves designing, cutting, forming, and assembling metal structures or components based on the specific needs of a project or application. Unlike mass production, custom fabrication allows for complete control over material selection, dimensions, welding standards, finishes, and performance capabilities.
It’s a tailored approach to building components such as:
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Pressure vessels
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Heat exchangers
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Large industrial tanks
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Piping systems
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Steel support structures
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Custom enclosures and housings
Each project is unique, and custom fabrication ensures that the final product fits perfectly into an existing system or meets demanding performance requirements.
Why Complex Industrial Projects Require Custom Metal Fabrication
1. Precision and Performance
Industrial operations can’t afford failure. Whether it's a pressure vessel operating at 2,000 PSI or a tank handling corrosive chemicals, performance matters. Custom fabrication ensures that each component is engineered to meet exact tolerances and withstand specific environmental, mechanical, and thermal conditions.
At Boardman Inc., we utilize advanced CAD software, CNC machining, and certified welding procedures to deliver fabrication that meets or exceeds industry standards such as ASME, API, and AWS.
2. Unique Requirements and Site Conditions
Industrial facilities are often custom-built themselves — and so are the challenges they face. Space constraints, unique piping layouts, elevation changes, and integration with legacy systems are all factors that make off-the-shelf components impractical.
Custom metal fabrication allows for design flexibility, ensuring that even the most unconventional installations can be completed without compromising structural integrity or workflow.
3. Material Selection for Harsh Environments
Custom fabrication allows clients to select the ideal material for their use case — be it carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or nickel alloys. This is especially important in high-temperature, high-pressure, or corrosive environments.
Choosing the right material extends the life of your equipment and reduces maintenance costs — a major advantage for industries with 24/7 operations and tight production schedules.
4. Compliance with Industry Standards
Custom-fabricated components often must comply with strict industry regulations and safety codes. Boardman Inc. is experienced in delivering products built to ASME Section VIII, API 650, and other essential standards, ensuring full compliance and safety.
Custom fabrication also makes documentation and quality control easier, with traceability and testing aligned with regulatory requirements.
Real-World Example: Power Plant Heat Exchanger
Consider a power plant that needs a new heat exchanger custom-fitted into an aging facility with limited access points and non-standard mounting configurations. Off-the-shelf components won’t fit — and retrofitting could compromise performance or safety.
Using custom metal fabrication, Boardman Inc. can design and build a heat exchanger that:
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Matches existing inlet/outlet placements
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Operates efficiently within the specified pressure and temperature range
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Meets ASME and local code requirements
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Is fabricated off-site and delivered ready for installation, minimizing downtime
That’s the power of precision-built fabrication in action.
The Boardman Inc. Advantage
With over six decades of experience in custom metal fabrication, Boardman Inc. has built a reputation for tackling the most challenging projects. Our capabilities include:
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Heavy plate forming and rolling
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Advanced welding (SMAW, GTAW, SAW, and more)
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Non-destructive testing and quality assurance
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Turnkey solutions from design to delivery
Our expert fabricators and engineers work closely with clients to understand project specifications, environmental constraints, and long-term performance goals.
Final Thoughts
Complex industrial projects demand components that are as unique and robust as the systems they serve. With custom metal fabrication, companies gain control over design, durability, and compliance — ensuring that every part of their operation runs smoothly and safely.
At Boardman Inc., we don’t just build to spec — we build to solve problems. Whether you need a custom tank, vessel, or structural assembly, we’re here to deliver engineered solutions that perform under pressure.
Have a custom fabrication challenge?
Contact Boardman Inc. today to learn how we can support your next industrial project with precision-engineered, high-performance components.