Australian-made fabrication for the marine industry
Weld East Fabricators has been supplying custom metal fabrication to Australian industries since 1982. Our marine fabrication work covers a broad range of vessel types and applications, from commercial workboats and barges to recreational craft and offshore support vessels.
We work with naval architects, boat builders, marine contractors and vessel owners across Perth and regional WA to produce components that are on-spec, compliant and built to withstand Australia’s demanding coastal and offshore conditions.
Our marine fabrication solutions
Our general fabrication services extend fully into the marine sector, covering the range of components and structures that commercial and recreational marine projects typically require. That includes:
- Deck fittings, hatches and access panels
- Structural frames, bulkheads and hull reinforcements
- Handrails, ladders and walkways
- Fuel and water tank fabrication
- Mooring equipment and anchor points
- Custom brackets, mounts and structural supports
- Davits, lifting frames and handling equipment
We work with marine-grade aluminium, grade 304, 316, 2205, 2750 stainless steel, and mild steel depending on the application and corrosion requirements. Our CNC plasma cutting equipment handles plates of a range of thicknesses, producing accurate, clean cuts that reduce re-work and keep your project timeline on track.
Marine aluminium fabrication and stainless steel engineering works
The marine environment places significant demands on materials. Saltwater exposure, UV, and constant mechanical stress mean that material selection and fabrication quality have a direct impact on service life and safety.
Our aluminium and stainless steel fabrication capabilities are particularly well-suited to marine applications. Marine aluminium fabrication is widely used for superstructures, wheelhouses, platforms and lightweight structural components where weight reduction is a priority.
Grade 316 stainless steel marine fabrication is the standard choice for fittings, fasteners, handrails and components exposed to direct saltwater contact, given its superior resistance to chloride-induced corrosion. We work with both materials regularly and can advise on the most appropriate specification for your application.
Marine welding, finishing and quality control
All marine welding is carried out by qualified tradespersons in accordance with AS/NZS 1554 Welding standards including ISO and American welding standards. We use MIG, TIG and stick welding processes, selected according to the material and joint requirements.
TIG welding is commonly used for stainless steel marine fabrication and aluminium components where a clean, precise weld is required. For structural applications, we support non-destructive testing (NDT) including magnetic particle inspection and ultrasonic testing where your project specifications call for it.
Surface finishing is managed in-house or through our established partner network. We offer sandblasting, powder coating and marine-grade paint systems to suit a range of corrosion protection requirements. Full material traceability and QA documentation are available to support survey, insurance and regulatory requirements on commercial vessel projects.
Why local marine aluminium fabricators make a difference
Fabrication quality and material traceability matter considerably more in the marine industry than in many other sectors. Components that fail in a marine environment can pose serious safety risks, and rectification costs on a vessel at sea or in a boatyard are rarely straightforward.
Working with a Perth-based fabricator means direct communication with the team producing your components, faster turnaround on design queries, and the ability to respond quickly when project requirements change. We use Australian-produced materials and maintain full documentation to support vessel surveys and commercial compliance requirements.
Custom marine fabrication for new builds, refits and modifications
Whether your project involves a new build, a scheduled refit or a modification to an existing vessel, we can assist from early design through to delivery. If you have drawings or specifications ready, request a quote and we will respond with a detailed proposal.
If your project is still in the design phase, getting a fabricator involved early often saves time and avoids costly re-work later. To discuss your marine fabrication requirements with our team, get in touch today.
Enquiry Form
Your Information
Require a custom solution?
You can rely on our design and production team to provide expert guidance from the start of your project to completion.
FAQs
What is marine fabrication?
Marine fabrication refers to the cutting, shaping, welding and finishing of metals to produce structural and functional components for vessels and marine structures. This covers everything from hull reinforcements and deck fittings to fuel tanks, handrails and lifting equipment designed for use in saltwater environments.
What materials are used in marine fabrication?
The most common materials are marine-grade aluminium, grade 316 stainless steel and, in some structural applications, mild steel with appropriate protective coatings.
Grade 316 stainless steel is preferred for components in direct saltwater contact due to its chloride corrosion resistance. Aluminium is widely used where weight reduction is a priority, such as in superstructures and wheelhouses.
What is the difference between marine aluminium fabrication and stainless steel marine fabrication?
Marine aluminium fabrication focuses on lightweight structural components where reducing vessel weight improves performance and fuel efficiency.
Marine stainless steel fabrication is used where corrosion resistance and strength are the primary requirements, such as for deck hardware, fittings and exposed structural connections. Both materials require specific welding procedures and filler materials to maintain their corrosion-resistant properties.
What welding standards apply to marine fabrication?
Welding for structural marine components is typically performed in accordance with AS/NZS 1554, which covers structural steel and aluminium welding. Commercial vessel projects may also require compliance with vessel survey standards relevant to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) or applicable classification society requirements.
Do you support non-destructive testing on marine components?
Yes. Where project specifications require it, we support non-destructive testing including magnetic particle inspection and ultrasonic testing. Material certificates and test reports are available on request to support vessel surveys and commercial compliance documentation.
How early in the project should I involve a fabricator?
As early as possible. Involving a fabricator during the design stage allows for input on material selection, joint details and fabrication feasibility. This often reduces overall project costs and helps avoid delays once the build or refit is underway.
Where do you service marine clients?
We service clients across Perth Metro and regional Western Australia from our Hazelmere and Bellevue workshops. We also deliver to other Australian states for larger projects.