The importance of the right material for sheet metal fabrication
Sheet metal fabrication is the most typical source for custom components that are used in production lines. Although there are many significant aspects that have to be considered in the fabrication of sheet metal components, the choice of material plays a key role in the quality, safety and value of the final product. There are two basic materials that are used for metal fabrication – aluminum or stainless steel. Stainless steel is widely used in many applications because of its excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. In determining the right material for fabrication, it is important to choose from different alloys that will suit your requirements. Proper choice is critical particularly if sheet metal will be used in food handling and production. Stainless steel is generally favored although aluminum has its own defense against rust and corrosion. The techniques in the fabrication process are also critical particularly if steel will be used for stronger and heavier applications like roofs, ladders and platforms.
Cutting technologies for sheet metal fabrication
In order to achieve a blank shape or size and to trim the sheet metal part to its final size, different cutting operations may be required. Mechanical cutting is usually accomplished through straight shearing with the use of guillotine knives, circle shearing with circular knives positioned horizontally and vertically and band sawing with the use of high speed steel blades. When blanking is required metal punches and dies are used to punch out the required shape. Cutting is usually done through oxy-fuel technology that makes use of a flame-fired torch using oxygen or propane with iron powder. Another method makes use of plasma jet technology where gas is produced to extremely hot temperature to melt sheet metal. Both cutting methods are extremely fast and clean.
The importance of surface finish in sheet metal fabrication
Surface finish is a very significant factor when the appearance of a product is considered. There are applications where aesthetics play an important role like consumer products. Certain surface finishes make cleaning a lot easier and provides better corrosion protection. On the other hand, there are certain applications that purposely require rough surface finish for lubrication applications and to facilitate further manufacturing processes. Surface finish is the result of secondary processes used in sheet metal fabrication. For example, a dull finish can be obtained through annealing, hot rolling or descaling while a highly reflective finish can be achieved through cold rolling combined with annealing in a controlled atmospheric furnace. A mirror finish is usually the result of polishing with progressively finer abrasives that is followed by extensive buffing.