Welcome to Episode 3 of  The Fabricator’s Edge, this week taking a deep dive into the world of food production and the role smart sheet metal production plays in this vital infrastructure. 

If you work in food production, you already know that good design isn’t just about performance—it’s about hygiene, uptime, and compliance. And right at the core of that equation? Sheet metal fabrication.

In the latest episode of the Dutton podcast, we take a closer look at how innovative sheet metal design is helping food manufacturers tackle some of their biggest challenges—from maintaining hygiene standards to speeding up maintenance and cutting line changeover times.

Why Hygienic Design Matters More Than Ever

With HACCP principles and global certifications like GFSI and EHEDG driving procurement decisions, hygienic design is now a baseline requirement. It’s no longer optional—it’s expected. That means surface finishes need to be smooth (Ra < 0.8 μm), welds must be seamless, and components must be designed to drain, clean, and resist bacterial adhesion.

At Dutton, we’ve supported food producers with precision-welded, bead-blasted, electropolished stainless assemblies—engineered to meet these exacting demands.

Smarter Design = Faster Turnaround

We also talk about the operational payoffs: smoother material flow, tool-free disassembly, and less downtime during sanitation or spares replacement. These are the real-world benefits that smart sheet metal design delivers.

Why Collaboration is Key

One key takeaway from this episode? Early collaboration changes everything. When OEMs and processors bring fabricators like Dutton in early, we can help optimise the design for both hygiene and manufacturability, cutting cost, reducing risk, and getting to market faster.

Looking for a Fabricator Who Gets It?

From tunnel roof linings for the London Underground to hygienic hoppers for UK food producers, we’ve built a reputation on precision, reliability and responsiveness. If you’re looking to improve efficiency and compliance across your production line, get in touch.

Listen Now to Episode 3

The Fabricator’s Edge is available now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Tune in for practical insights, real factory-floor examples, and expert conversations designed to help you think smarter about your supply chain choices. Or you can click to listen right here:

Brought to you by Dutton Engineering

With over 35 years of experience delivering precision sheet metal solutions for complex sectors, Dutton Engineering is proud to support forward-thinking procurement teams across the UK and beyond. Our services include:

• 24/7 custom fabrication

• ISO1090 MIG/TIG coded welding

• Laser & waterjet cutting

• 3D printing with Markforged technology

• Integrated CAD/CAM and digital production systems

Looking to cut carbon, not corners? Let’s talk.