The Fabricators Edge

Dutton Engineering
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The Fabricator’s Edge is Dutton Engineering’s podcast series dedicated to the world of precision sheet metal fabrication — and everything that touches it. From material sourcing and design collaboration to compliance, sustainability, and lean production, each episode tackles the practical challenges and real-world decisions faced by procurement teams, operations leads and engineering directors in fast-moving sectors like food manufacturing, pharma, transport and infrastructure. This isn’t just shop talk — it’s a behind-the-scenes look at how modern fabrication works in practice.

Episodes

  1. 07/14/2025

    The Fabricator’s Edge Episode 8: The Rise of Bespoke Sheet Metal in Architecture

    Custom sheet metal is no longer just a utility—it’s a creative force in modern architecture. In this episode, we dive into how architectural metalwork is transforming buildings across the UK, from rainscreens and curved facades to feature walls and sculptural interiors. You’ll hear why architects are turning to metal for aesthetic impact, sustainability, and performance, and why bringing your fabricator in early can make or break the project. With insight from Dutton Engineering’s project work and technical know-how, this is essential listening for architects, buyers, and contractors alike.

    22 min

  2. 07/03/2025

    The Fabricator’s Edge Episode 7: How Precision Sheet Metal Supports Food Safety and Efficiency

    In this episode of The Fabricator’s Edge, we explore the critical role of precision sheet metal fabrication in the food manufacturing industry. From stainless steel selection and surface finishes to hygienic design and traceability, we unpack how fabrication quality directly impacts food safety, cleaning efficiency, and uptime. Join the team at Dutton Engineering as they discuss real-world challenges and best practices for working with OEMs, operations managers, and procurement leaders across food production. Learn why Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and strategic supplier partnerships are key to compliance and consistent performance on the production line. Whether you’re a food equipment manufacturer, project manager, or procurement professional, this episode is packed with practical insights to help improve equipment reliability—and your bottom line. 🎧 Tune in now. #TheFabricatorsEdge #FoodManufacturing #HygienicDesign #SheetMetalFabrication #DuttonEngineering

    23 min
  3. The Fabricator’s Edge – Episode 6: Why UK Manufacturing Is Back on the Radar

    06/23/2025

    The Fabricator’s Edge – Episode 6: Why UK Manufacturing Is Back on the Radar

    In Episode 6 of The Fabricator’s Edge, we dig into why UK manufacturing is gaining traction again among global buyers. From reshoring to TCO, we explore how procurement teams are rethinking offshore strategies post-Brexit. What’s driving the shift? From the aftermath of Brexit to rising freight costs and global supply disruptions, the offshore model is no longer a guaranteed cost saver. Add in stricter ESG goals and quality demands, and the game changes fast. That’s why this episode dives into: The case for reshoring and nearshoring Why Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is the new metric that matters How UK suppliers are becoming more competitive in complex, regulated sectors UK manufacturing doesn’t just tick boxes on proximity—it often leads on: Zero-defect delivery rates Faster lead times and agile turnaround Stronger communication and compliance alignment Lower risk from political and trade volatility As we discuss in the episode, for high-value assemblies or bespoke fabrication, domestic suppliers can deliver better total value—especially when time, trust, and quality matter. Quality, Collaboration & Control

    24 min

  4. 06/16/2025

    The Fabricators Edge Episode 5: The Missing Link in Supply Chain Conversations

    Who’s telling the customer what’s happening—and is procurement even in the loop? In this episode, we unpack a major comms challenge in manufacturing and supply chain: the disconnect between what procurement knows and what customers hear. From missed stock updates to crossed wires between sales and operations, we explore how poor internal communication creates risk—and what can be done about it. If you’ve ever found out about a delay from the customer before your own team… this one’s for you. 🎧 Topics covered: Communication gaps between sales, ops and procurement Real-world examples of misaligned messaging How to bring procurement into the conversation earlier Practical steps to improve visibility and trust

    18 min

  5. 06/09/2025

    The Fabricators Edge Episode 4 - How Automation is Changing Custom Fabrication

    In this episode, we explore how Dutton Engineering has embedded automation across its fabrication processes—from CAD integration to robotic welding and overnight cutting. We look at how a 24/7 production model is reducing lead times, minimising waste, and delivering consistent quality for custom sheet metal components. Featuring real examples from projects in rail, architecture, and food manufacturing, this is a must-listen for procurement and operations leaders.

    20 min
  6. The Fabricators Edge Episode 3 -Smart Sheet Metal Design – The Hidden Powerhouse of Food Production

    06/02/2025

    The Fabricators Edge Episode 3 -Smart Sheet Metal Design – The Hidden Powerhouse of Food Production

    In this episode, we uncover the unsung hero of food manufacturing: innovative sheet metal design. Host [insert name] is joined by industry experts to explore how smarter fabrication isn't just about steel—it's about safety, uptime, and futureproofing your production lines. We dig into: Why hygienic design is now a regulatory must, not a nice-to-have How surface finishes, welds and folds directly impact cleanability and compliance The role of collaboration between OEMs, processors and fabricators in speeding up design and reducing risk What to look for in a food-grade fabricator Whether you're an engineering lead, procurement manager or production director, this one’s for you.

    30 min

  7. 05/27/2025

    The Fabricators Edge Episode 2: Beyond the Price Tag – Why Quality Wins in Sheet Metal Procurement

    Low prices are tempting—but are they costing you more in the long run? This episode of The Fabricator’s Edge digs into why the most strategic manufacturers and buyers are shifting focus from lowest cost to lowest total cost of ownership (TCO). Drawing on recent research and real-world case studies, we explore: How rework, scrap, and late deliveries drive hidden costs What to look for in a high-value, quality-first fabrication partner Why automation, in-house QC, and collaborative design reduce risk Whether you're sourcing for food processing equipment, architectural builds, or medical systems, this is your guide to smarter, more resilient procurement.

    21 min
  8. The Fabricators Edge Episode 1: Why Sustainability Matters in Sheet Metal Fabrication

    05/19/2025

    The Fabricators Edge Episode 1: Why Sustainability Matters in Sheet Metal Fabrication

    In this first episode of The Fabricator’s Edge, we look at the growing demand for sustainable manufacturing practices — and how the sheet metal industry is responding. Hosted by the team at Dutton Engineering, we unpack what real sustainability looks like on the factory floor. From smarter material selection to energy-conscious processes like laser cutting and precision planning, we talk about how procurement teams can balance sustainability with speed and cost-efficiency. Ideal for: supply chain leads, technical buyers, and manufacturing decision-makers across food, pharma, construction and beyond.

    13 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

The Fabricator’s Edge is Dutton Engineering’s podcast series dedicated to the world of precision sheet metal fabrication — and everything that touches it. From material sourcing and design collaboration to compliance, sustainability, and lean production, each episode tackles the practical challenges and real-world decisions faced by procurement teams, operations leads and engineering directors in fast-moving sectors like food manufacturing, pharma, transport and infrastructure. This isn’t just shop talk — it’s a behind-the-scenes look at how modern fabrication works in practice.

Information

  • Creator
    Dutton Engineering
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dutton Engineering
  • Show Website
    The Fabricators Edge