Sheet metal fabrication allows forming metal sheets into the desired shapes using various methods. There are different fabrication techniques used to get the desired result. The choice depends on the need, cost, and volume. Multiple experts like Turn Weld, sheet metal fabrication services Sunshine Coast offer one-stop-shop for all the fabrication needs.
Advantages and types of sheet metals:
The sheet metal design options are flexible, and you can have various solutions for your needs. Sheet metal fabrication allows gradual growth from prototype to large-scale production. Sheet metal comes in all types of metal like mild steel, aluminum, stainless steel, etc. Sheet metal is used for various purposes; like a cold roll sheet gives a nice finish and can be used for home appliances, furniture, lockers, etc. Whereas hot roll sheets, which are easier to form but do not have very accurate dimensions, are used for industrial purposes. The stainless steel sheets proved best in a corrosive environment and are extensively used for industries. Aluminum sheets are not very common because they are a little expensive in comparison to others. But they’re solid and lightweight.
Types of sheet metal fabrication:
There are many techniques for sheet metal fabrication, but the most common ones are-
- Cutting metal
The process begins with sheet metal cutting. It depends on the thickness of the metal used. Cutting of the metal can be done using a water jet tool, torching, shearing, or sawing.
- Bending metal
After the metal is cut, the sheet metal is bent to the desired shape. You can do this by using a Metal Brake where one end of the sheet metal is placed inside the gate, and the other end is clamped with a bar. The other way to do it is Form Bending, where the sheet is shaped with a hammer’s blow.
- Welding metal
It starts the assembly of the metal together. The standard welding methods used for sheet metal fabrication are MIG welding, TIG welding, or Laser welding.
- Shrinking metal
Some sheet metal fabrication requires the shrinking of the metal, which removes all the dents. Metal shrinking can be done using heat shrinking technology or tucking the metal and using shrink machines on the sheet metal.
- Stretching metal
At times metal sheets also need to be stretched instead of shrinking. It is generally done by using stretcher machines. An English Wheel machine or Hammer and Anvil may also be used for sheet metal stretching.
- Finishing metal
After the cutting, shrinking, stretching, or welding of the sheet metal, the final step gives it a finishing touch. The standard techniques used for finishing metal are sandblasting, buff polishing or metal coating.
conclusion
You may seek the advice of expert sheet metal fabricators who have been in the business for years and have a proven track record to guide you through.
