Custom metal enclosures are critical in protecting infrastructure systems from transformers, round tanks, and generators to EV charging networks and renewable energy sites. Failure is not an option in these environments, which is why this edition of Voices of Fabrication explores what procurement and sourcing teams need to know when selecting a fabrication partner who can deliver infrastructure-ready, custom enclosures.

Episode 3 of Maysteel's Life in the Fab Lane podcast highlights a few of the best practices that help teams source smarter by vetting potential partners better. Here are some expert tips and insights we'd like to share.

Custom Metal Enclosures for Infrastructure Are Not One-Size-Fits-All

Choosing a fabrication supplier who understands the realities of infrastructure programs is essential. Downtime is not an option for programs that power the grid or support utilities, and most of the time, an off-the-shelf enclosure won't meet your goals once installed in the field.

More often than not, successful infrastructure programs are the ones that require:

• Custom footprints or layouts
• Considerations for environmental conditions (Rain, corrosion, etc.) 
• UL listings, NEMA ratings or seismic requirements
• The ability to quickly scale to meet power demands

What “Custom” Should Mean in Infrastructure Sourcing

When it comes to custom solutions, sourcing smarter almost always starts with knowing exactly what to look for in a potential partner. Remember, not all “custom” enclosure suppliers are built the same. Some rely heavily on third parties. Others retrofit standard designs instead of engineering to spec. And, some lack the infrastructure experience needed to deliver long-term field performance.

To help ensure that you are choosing to work with the right fabrication partner for your essential infrastructure enclosures, we recommend that procurement teams vet potential suppliers while using these five questions as a guide:

1. Do they have experience building enclosures for infrastructure projects? 
2. Can they provide some examples? 
3. How do they manage environmental and compliance requirements?
4. Is engineering integrated from the start?
5. Can they support the production scale?
   
   

“The enclosures we build aren’t just protecting components, they’re protecting uptime, safety and reputation.”

- Kevin Matkin, CEO at Maysteel

Why Engineering-Led Fabrication Matters in Infrastructure Projects

Transparent conversations about a potential partner’s engineering-led processes are imperative for custom infrastructure projects. Why? Maysteel’s CEO Kevin Matkin says it best, “the enclosures we build protect more than just components; they protect uptime, safety, and reputation.”

Custom metal enclosures for infrastructure programs are about more than steel; they’re about performance, protection, and precision. Engineering alignment is non-negotiable, and your sourcing team’s ability to establish that alignment early on can make or break the success of your project. 

How to Choose a Custom Enclosure Partner for Infrastructure Success

Suppliers who collaborate closely with your engineering and program teams from the start reduce risk and improve outcomes. As a rule of thumb, procurement teams who are supporting large-scale infrastructure programs should always look for custom fabrication partners who:

• Specialize in infrastructure and energy applications
• Offer engineering-first support
• Provide regional manufacturing and reliable supply chains
• Deliver consistency at scale

At Maysteel, we’ve supported infrastructure leaders with custom metal enclosures for almost 90 years. From power distribution to renewable energy, we engineer and manufacture custom enclosures that perform in the field and protect what matters most.

Ready to Talk Custom Enclosure Strategy?

If you’re sourcing custom metal enclosures for infrastructure applications, we’re ready to help.
Explore our infrastructure enclosure capabilities or contact us to connect with our team.