Key Takeaways
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Sesame Access successfully resolved a custom stainless steel fabrication challenge during a bespoke lift project.
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The team adapted to non-standard material sourcing while maintaining precision tolerances and DDA-compliant design standards.
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Strong supplier relationships ensured that machining delays were mitigated, safeguarding delivery times for critical accessibility installations.
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Lessons learned now inform future bespoke lift design and platform lift accessibility projects requiring advanced metalwork precision.
Introduction
Delivering fully bespoke, DDA-compliant platform lifts often means overcoming highly specific engineering challenges. In this case, a custom stainless steel shaft had to be fabricated and milled from irregular bar stock after the supplier provided a non-standard size. Rather than delay production, the Sesame Access engineering team applied their expertise in precision engineering for accessibility equipment, ensuring that the finished component met all operational and visual requirements for a compliant lift installation.
This project demonstrates Sesame Access’s proactive problem-solving ethos, combining material science, collaboration, and meticulous quality control to produce safe, elegant, and fully integrated lift systems.
Why Non-Standard Material Sourcing Requires Careful Planning
When manufacturing custom stainless steel components for platform lifts, even small dimensional variations can disrupt alignment, load balance, or motion smoothness. The team encountered a 65 mm square shaft that arrived as hot-rolled stock rather than precision cold-drawn steel. To meet lift tolerances, engineers manually milled each side, transforming inconsistent raw material into a perfectly true, functional part.
This process reinforced the importance of early design-stage material checks, ensuring that every bespoke lift drawing aligns with realistic supply chains and achievable machining profiles.
Building Strong Supplier Relationships for Reliable Bespoke Lift Production
Sesame Access’s manufacturing success depends on reliable suppliers who understand the company’s unique products, from the Kensington Stairlift to the Pimlico Lift and Richmond Rising Platform Lift. Long-term partnerships enable rapid sourcing of specialist metals, fixtures, and actuators vital for bespoke lift design and platform lift accessibility installations.
By maintaining these trusted relationships, Sesame Access can deliver consistently high standards while avoiding costly production interruptions, an essential factor for listed buildings and heritage environments where DDA compliance and precision engineering must coexist.
Turning Challenges into Continuous Improvement
What began as a machining setback became an innovation opportunity. The engineering team refined internal communication between CAD design and procurement to verify stock dimensions before fabrication. They also updated quality-assurance checklists for all future bespoke platform lift builds, helping ensure smoother operations in upcoming projects.
This ongoing learning culture forms part of Sesame Access’s Knowledge Hub, where each project contributes new insights into manufacturing precision and sustainable accessibility solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does custom stainless steel fabrication involve for lift components?
It includes milling, cutting, and surface finishing to achieve the exact tolerances required for lift shafts, gates, and platforms.
How long does custom lift component machining take?
Typical stainless steel fabrication for bespoke lifts takes one to two weeks depending on complexity and supplier lead times.
What metal grades does Sesame Access use for lift components?
We primarily use high-grade stainless steel (304 and 316) to ensure durability, corrosion resistance, and a premium finish.
Why is DDA compliance important in bespoke lift design?
It guarantees that every installation meets accessibility standards for wheelchair users and public-access environments.
How do supplier relationships impact production time?
Reliable suppliers who understand Sesame’s requirements can quickly adapt to specification changes, reducing machining delays.
Where can I learn more about precision engineering for accessibility?
Visit related Knowledge Hub entries such as:
Ready to Discuss Your Project?
To explore how Sesame Access can design a DDA-compliant lift tailored to your site, book a Teams Meeting with one of our Project Managers today.