Sheet metal is one of the fundamental forms used in metalworking, formed by an industrial process into flat pieces. It can be cut and bent into various shapes and countless everyday objects can be fabricated from it.
The process of sheet metal fabrication is a manufacturing and prototyping method for making robust functioning parts. It has a wide range of applications and uses including in industries like architecture, transportation, and others.
Below we’ll explain a bit more about the process of fabrication and its application in various industries.
The process of sheet metal fabrication
Almost every market sector has used sheet metal fabrication at some point in its product journey. It exists to customize designs and manufacture materials or specific components required for a variety of industries. It uses different processes, techniques, and procedures to bend and shape metal into functional parts, and there are 3 different processes including cutting, deformation, and assembly.
Common sheet metals include stainless steel, zinc, aluminum, and copper. The components of sheet metal are used extensively in construction, industrial processes, and industry, and as technology evolves, new fabrication processes are introduced to provide businesses across multiple industries with more opportunities to manufacture metal products. Other industries that also use this process include automotive, energy, aerospace, and robotics.
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Industries that use sheet metal fabrication
When thinking about sheet metal fabrication, some people tend to think of heavy equipment and industrial applications like oil drilling and mining. But the uses of this process are much more varied than that and can be used in many different industries.
Architecture
Sheet metal fabrication is used in the construction industry since it offers plenty of benefits including strength, resistance, sustainability, quality, adaptability, and many more. It can also be repaired easily, and is cost-effective, meaning it’s relatively inexpensive since it is not rare. Sheet metal is also durable and can withstand high pressure, despite being lightweight which makes it easier to transport and deliver.
Strong buildings often have metal structures, and some are even made entirely from metal. When constructing an architectural marvel or a well-designed building, specific parts are essential, and with metal fabrication, you can get specific supports, beams, and sheets in the exact dimensions you need. Also, you’ll get the correct material and quantity. It’s flexible and versatile and can be used for any type of building.
Automotive industry
Metal is essential to the automotive industry, and sheet metal is used for several purposes including custom car modification, roll cage fabrication and vintage car restoration. Cars in need of repairs or restoration necessitate the installation of new metal parts throughout the vehicle, from the undercarriage to the interior and exterior body.
Oftentimes, these pieces need to follow custom dimensions to fit the existing skeleton, and the process of sheet metal fabrication allows for thorough repairs. This means that cars that would normally be totaled could be repaired and used for many more years. Also, this process can produce rare car parts which can save time.
Medical industry
The medical industry can also benefit from sheet metal fabrication since specific equipment can be precisely engineered by this process. Most of the equipment deals in metal, for example, operating tools and complex machinery. The metal surgical instruments can be fabricated to precise dimensions. They can also be ordered in bulk which means hospitals won’t have a shortage of important equipment.
Every day new medical advances are made, meaning new tools with specific functions for particular examinations and operations are invented and produced by using the sheet metal fabrication process. Also, the construction of new machines and even automated surgical robots are beginning to equal human specialists at precision surgical tasks. These advances need precision instruments where metal fabrication can be of great help.
Aerospace industry
The aerospace industry demands accurately fabricated products that are also strong and long-lasting. To engineer such products, you’ll need specialized metal fabrication tools to fabricate reliable parts. From parts for the external body of the aircraft to minute components used in the engine, the tools can be used for all sizes and capabilities.
Some of the sheet fabrication tools used in the aerospace industry include sheet metal brake, punch, press, bead roller, and others. Components for the harness and chassis, and also other ones can be fabricated using metal fabrication tools. The flexibility of custom metal fabrication can produce specially designed and formatted parts, meaning you can manufacture exactly what you need.
In closing
Depending on the industry, it is important to choose the right sheet metal fabrication process to deliver quality products. Sheet metal professionals can help you finalize the design and choose between similar processes. Regardless of the industry, it’s always good to invest in a full-service process for creating your products.
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