Project
Johannesburg facade screens
A Johannesburg workshop cut and finished architectural facade screens using WeldPrep Beam for precise edge prep, handling both mild and stainless steel with complex joint notes for site assembly.
Related cut: architectural metal
Finding a better finish for facade metal in Gauteng
A fabrication shop based in Johannesburg took on a series of architectural facade screens for a new development in Sandton. These screens needed intricate cut patterns and precise mitred joints, with a crisp finish on both mild and stainless steel. The challenge was to achieve clean, weld-ready edges that would line up perfectly on site, despite variable material batches and tight installation windows.
Johannesburg’s dry, dusty climate meant that any surface oxidation or edge burrs could quickly cause problems during storage and transport. The team also needed a way to add detailed edge prep notes for the welding crew, as different parts of the screen assembly required unique bevels and fit-up angles.
WeldPrep Beam With Clear Edge Notes
After a review with Ms Busisiwe Ngqula and Mr Neels Jansen at Sunnyrock HQ, the shop decided to run all screen panel edges through our WeldPrep Beam system. This allowed for tailored bevels and consistent edge finishes in a single process, reducing manual grinding and the risk of heat-affected zones from post-cut prep.
We worked with the design team to mark every panel with clear, laser-engraved assembly notes at each joint. These were applied using a Mark Pro 30 cell, which could add both alphanumeric codes and fit-up arrows without removing material, especially on stainless to avoid crevice corrosion. Each nest was set up in SheetNest Pro to pair the cutting path with the required edge prep and marking.
How the workflow improved after a few months
Within three months of production, the shop reported faster assembly and fewer site rejects. The welders found the bevels uniform and the edge markings easy to follow, which meant less on-site adjustment and rework.
Surface finishes on stainless held up during storage, even with Joburg’s winter dust. Routine visual checks and daily cleaning of the protective window on the WeldPrep Beam kept cut quality consistent. The local electrical supply proved stable, but the team added surge protection for the controller as a precaution.
Lessons for other workshops taking on facade metal
If your shop tackles architectural screens or facade elements, matching the edge prep to your assembly method makes a big difference. Automated bevels and clear marking are worth the investment when every panel must fit without on-site hacks.
Use local exhaust extraction for fume and dust, especially when running batches of galvanised or stainless. In Gauteng, build in regular checks for dust on optics and electrical panels. Always store assist gas cylinders upright and chained, SANS 10019 is clear on safe handling.
- Pair edge prep with the cutting path for repeatable joints
- Engrave clear, corrosion-resistant assembly notes
- Protect optics and panels from Highveld dust
- Check extraction and fume control for every batch
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