The alteration of metal to form an end product is called sheet metal fabrication. Anything that contains metal parts have gone through a type of sheet metal fabrication. Industries such as electronics, medical, appliances or medical commonly use this process.
Cutting, forming and finishing are the methods used to create a final product. Stainless steel and aluminium are popular metals that can be put to use. There are others which include iron, steel, copper, gold and silver. Obviously, pricing and durability come into consideration when you’re deciding between them.
Processes
The cutting process has a number of different avenues depending on the size and thickness of your metal. Shear stress on a cutting machine is one method. Another is Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) that involves cutting with a skinny charged electrode encircled by iodized water to melt the metal. Saws and grinders could be used as a way to cut metal but can produce heat and sparks. Water jets an be used when there is a heat issue and laser cutters can be used for precision cuts.
After the cutting stage the next thing to do is to from the shape. Techniques include things like rolling, bending stamping, punching or welding. This can also create things like holes, 3D shapes, cones, tubes. The possibilities are endless.
The finishing process is essentially to clean up the product. Cleaning down rough edges, touching up colours and polishing. Once this is complete you have yourself a finished product. Adding this to another to create a larger product is possible or it can be used on its own.
Many places today specialise in sheet metal fabrication. Not only does this eliminate the need for companies to buy or hire equipment to do one off jobs but also people without experience getting hurt. WDIS.WA is one of those sheet metal fabrication companies. We can help you with anything from brackets and handles to ductwork and stacks. There isn’t much we can’t handle. Call us today to speak to one of our friendly staff members.
