Sheet metal fabrication, often known as custom or precise sheet metal fabrication, is the method of changing flat metal sheets such as aluminium or steel into the required product. Any form can be bent, stretched, or carved out of sheet metal. To produce the best results, the procedure is somewhat complicated, and the correct sheet metal fabricating equipment and techniques are required.
Sheet metal fabrication tools and equipment are used to cut, bend, and push metal into the desired shape in precision sheet metal manufacturing. CNC machines have become a common instrument in this process due to their high precision and low cost.
The Sheet Metal Fabrication Process
Forming, cutting, and joining are the three main processes in sheet metal manufacturing.
Forming
The moulding of sheet metal is referred to as forming of the sheet metal. It includes the following procedures:
- Stamping entails pressing metal into the desired shape with the use of two dies.
- Bending can be carried out manually or with the use of press brakes.
- Stretching entails pulling the metal using a spreader or an English wheel.
- Roll forming is the process of passing a metal sheet through a pair of rollers to generate a coiled shape.
Cutting
Cutting can be classified into two types:
- Simple cutting, shearing, and blanking are all examples of shear cutting, which is a less accurate technique. Non-industrial end items are made with this material.
- Waterjet cutting, plasma cutting, laser cutting, milling machines, and lathe machines are examples of non-shear cutting. Non-shear cutting’s precision makes it ideal for industrial items requiring great precision, such as automotive or aviation parts.
Joining
The following services are also provided as part of the joining process:
- Welding and brazing are two procedures used in the joining process. Metal sheets are also joined together with rivets and adhesives.
- To improve the qualities of the finished items, finishing operations such as sandblasting, deburring, and coating are used.
What Are CNC Machines And Do They Need To Be Used In Sheet Metal Manufacturing?
During the sheet metal fabrication process, precision sheet metal fabrication businesses use computer numerical control machines (or CNC machines) that are configured with computer software to direct the movement of industrial tools and machinery. This helps in automating the manufacturing operations while maintaining accuracy and precision. It provides value-added services such as CNC machining processes to improve the completed product’s quality.
