The two major techniques used in sheetmetal fabrication is cutting and heating of the raw material used. During the cutting process, there are special tools employed such as band saws which are commonly used. The band saws have blades that are hardened in a certain way which gives it the ability to cut sheetmetals in even shapes and sizes. Aside from the band saws, chop saws are also employed in the cutting process. Chop saws have resemblance to miter saws and the only difference between them is that chop saws have disks that are covered with abrasive which is effective in cutting sheets of metals. Another most commonly used in equipment in cutting is the cutting torch which is essential in sheetmetal fabrication. The cutting torches have the ability to cut large sections without requiring much effort and power compared to other tools. There are other processes involved in metal fabrication such as stamping, shaping, crimping, shearing, and bending of the sheetmetals in order to be utilized in making the finished products.
Once the sheetmetal has been fabricated, it is assembled with the help of welding to make sure it stays in place. There are different methods that are employed in welding to ensure that the finished products will not have any damage or visible warping. One method of welding is through a staggered process which is done with the help of a stout fixture. The metal to be process is first covered with sand before processing and then cooled – a necessary step if it is to undergo a special process called straightening. The sheetmetal will be straightened by using an oxy-acetylene torch. The heat will be applied to the material very slowly while making sure it is linear. This is done to remove any visible defect or unwanted materials. The last process will involve sand blasting before it is painted and primed.
There are many benefits offered by sheetmetal fabrication such as high strength, easily transported because it is lightweight and thin, moisture and corrosion resistant, durable, malleable, can handle high pressure. It can also be easily formed and bend thus the limitless design with which it can be used in buildings and construction.