All manufacturing industries rely on sheet metal fabrication and rapid prototyping, it is that simple. In fact, it all starts with this technique and it will also end with it. On top of that, sheet metal fabrication is responsible for an insane amount of everyday products.
But, an individual customer could also decide to use this process. If you want to use sheet metal fabrication you could hire a service that also offers 3D printing in San Diego. Beforehand you obviously need to know what this method is and the advantages sheet metal fabrication offers to its users.
Process
To put it simply, sheet metal fabrication starts with a piece of raw sheet metal. This is shaped into the desired object through forming and deforming, although material removal could be used as well. There are a lot of metal sheets available who vary based on among other things the thickness.
This depends on the specific metal used and can be very different. Aluminum can be up to 3/16 in. for example, which 14 gauge is possible for stainless steel. The sheet metal is transformed into the desired form by cutting, burning, and stretching it.
To be able to do this one needs special metal fabrication tools. Multiple processes can be employed to get the exact shape that the client wants, but also to achieve the desired specifications.
Advantages
Sheet metal fabrication is very common nowadays, which of course has a reason. This mostly is the case because this process is a cost-effective way to get any amount of desired shapes and sizes, while you will only need a short amount of time to produce the exact piece.
It could be a small part of the semiconductor sector, but also a big part of a car. Whatever it is, sheet metal fabrication will meet the precise needs. On top of that, this method will create parts that are long-lasting and strong. Plus, they will certainly meet the standards.
Besides all that, here are the top 5 benefits that you get from sheet metal fabrication as a business.
1. Malleability
One of the biggest reasons why sheet metal fabrication really helps businesses is because of the malleability that you get with these metals. In addition to their durability, these metal sheets can be easily fabricated and molded into any shape of your preference. This makes them perfect for different building designs and architects as the designing part gets really easy for the workers.
2. Durability
Because of the ability to withstand high amounts of pressure, metal sheets are known for their durability. In addition to that, metal sheets are resistant to water, moisture, sun, and corrosion, making them perfect for a wide range of projects as well as environments.
3. Light Weight
Unlike several other materials that are known for their durability but are quite heavy in terms of overall weight, metal sheets are extremely lightweight which makes them highly portable as well. This also allows metal workers and fabricators to handle and manage these metal sheets with ease.
4. Easy Modifications
Since metal workers can easily modify and adjust their metalworks, metal sheets are seen as a perfect construction material that allows easy expansion on different structures which might not be possible with some other materials.
5. Aesthetics
Lastly, the seamless finish and options that are provided by metalwork are unmatched in this space. Not only you get a seamless structure but the option for modification and painting makes this even more lucrative for every construction project.
Materials & Specifications
For sheet metal fabrication you can use a wide range of metals. Examples of the materials that can be used are stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and much more. Press brakes will be used to shape the parts. Usually, these can accommodate pieces up to 10 feet long, weighing up to 125 tons. Tight tolerances can still be achieved, however, up to circa 0.005 in. can be possible.
Finishing Sheet Metal Fabrication
There are multiple finishing techniques that you can choose according to your requirements. With the help of these finishing techniques, you can protect the material from dust, corrosion, and other weather factors affecting the metal. Moreover, some of the standard finishing techniques that are there are:
1. Brushing
This is a method through which you remove most of the defects that are visible on the surface of the metal sheet as you as brush against the metal sheet in a uniform manner creating a parallel grain from that.
2. Plating
The process of coating a layer of another metal over your metal sheet in order to make it look more pleasing as well as making the metal sheet corrosion resistance is known as plating.
3. Polishing
Polishing the metal sheet is how you get rid of a the outer layer of the metal sheet. This way you also remove any layer of oxidation that is there on the metal giving you a smooth, shiny, and perfect metal sheet for use.
4. Powder Coating
In order to increase the durability and aesthetics of the metal sheet, powder coating is seen as a perfect choice as it creates a hard finish on the surface of the metal sheet.
Conclusion
These are the basic aspects and benefits that any business or buyer gets as they opt for metal sheet fabrication services. Considering this, it is important that you choose the metal for your project carefully so that you get the best results in the end.
