Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) require high-precision metal products manufactured as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. However, many traditional fabrication techniques struggle to reach these goals due to time-consuming manual setups, custom tooling requirements, and labor-intensive operations. CNC panel bending offers a more efficient approach.
This advanced technology achieves high-volume, high-efficiency production, with fewer operators, no custom tooling, and significantly reduced setup time. For OEMs, automated metal bending offers a much more beneficial method of creating high-precision components, like appliance housings and control panels. As experts in custom metal fabrication, Metal Works of High Point offers quality panel bending services to meet diverse industry needs. Below, we’ll cover the CNC panel bending benefits OEMs need to be aware of, explaining how this technology supports scalable, cost-effective production.
What is CNC Panel Bending?
CNC panel bending is a metal forming process where a workpiece is clamped and bent with a rotating blade. Unlike a press brake, which uses upper and lower dies to apply force directly to the sheet metal, a panel bender can create multiple bend angles and radii in one automated setup. This provides greater flexibility and speed for OEM production.
Panel benders use universal tooling that rarely needs to be changed between jobs. This reduces downtime, limits operator fatigue, and increases throughput. Many machines include automated loading and unloading systems, allowing faster cycle times and smoother production for large runs or intricate parts.
CNC panel bending is well suited for applications requiring repeatable geometries and consistency. Common applications include:
HVAC panels
Electrical enclosures
Appliance panels
Metal cabinetry
Vent panels
Faster Setup, Less Labor Waste
Panel bending improves setup efficiency by using universal tooling that eliminates frequent changeovers. Unlike press brakes, there are no die swaps. Operators simply load the program, place the workpiece, and let the machine complete the bends automatically. This can cut setup time by up to 70% on repeat jobs. The streamlined process allows OEMs to switch between part families quickly, supporting more flexible production schedules.
Automated panel bending also increases overall productivity by making better use of skilled labor. A single technician can manage automated batching, while press brake operations often involve multiple steps and constant supervision. Automated loading and bending reduce manual handling, which helps minimize operator fatigue and the risk of injury.
Additionally, panel bending integrates easily with other metal fabrication processes, like CNC laser cutting, as well as finishing techniques, like powder coating. The result is continuous, lean production lines with minimal scrap and fewer required touchpoints.
Consistent Parts for High-Volume Runs
Consistency is essential in OEM production, particularly for components that must meet tight tolerance requirements. CNC panel bending creates parts that are as identical as possible by eliminating the possibility of human error. While manual forming requires human operators to position a workpiece, automated metal bending is controlled by a computer, performing intricate bends and achieving complex geometries in a single pass, all while maintaining dimensional accuracy across thousands of units.
Automated panel benders use a fixed tooling system that keeps the workpiece stationary while rotating the blades. No human handling is necessary, eliminating the possibility of part variations or misalignment. As a result, every component features uniform angles, sizes, and edge finishes.
In addition to these advantages, built-in quality control features like real-time correction sensors and robotic repositioning capabilities help to reduce defect rates and rework costs.
Panel Bending Solutions for OEMs by Metal Works of High Point
Metal Works of High Point uses the most advanced fabrication technology to deliver quality OEM components. Our OEM sheet metal forming services are not only efficient but exceptionally consistent, creating intricate designs that meet the demanding standards of industries like power generation, telecommunications, appliances, and more.
All of our solutions are 100% made in America, from our ISO 9001:2015 certified facility. We use ERP technology to track each component throughout every stage in the manufacturing process. Whether your needs are medium or high-volume, we can deliver quality results with lead times as little as 3 to 6 weeks. If you’d like to experience all the benefits that automated panel bending has to offer, request a quote for your project today.
Choosing the best metal fabrication provider can be a challenging task; however, making the right selection is critical to the success and quality of your project. To ensure you find a metal fabrication provider that can effectively meet your needs, there are various important factors to consider. These range from their level of experience to the types of equipment used, certifications, customer service, and more.
Here, we’ll go over the key considerations to keep in mind when determining the right metal fabrication partner and why you can trust Metal Works of High Point for all your sheet metal fabrication needs.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Metal Fabrication Provider
When narrowing down your search for the right metal fabrication provider, it’s important to consider the following:
Track Record & Experience Level
Be sure to look into a potential provider’s history and level of experience. Newer companies may not have much experience working on your type of project, so look for a provider with a proven track record for meeting similar needs as yours. You’re more likely to get higher-quality service at a better price if you select a metal fabrication partner with a long history of successful projects.
At Metal Works of High Point, we’ve been providing turnkey contract metal fabrication services since 1992. Our decades of experience allow us to deliver quality metal fabrication solutions that align with our customers’ unique needs, no matter how complex. View a small sampling of our previous work here.
Equipment Selection
A provider’s metal fabrication equipment will often determine the efficiency and quality of your project. For this reason, choose a provider that has invested in the latest equipment and stays up-to-date with the industry’s technological advancements. Metal Works of High Point is committed to innovation and uses state-of-the-art equipment and software to ensure precise, high-quality fabricated products.
Customer Service
Customer service is crucial when it comes to building a long-term relationship with your metal fabrication partner. Be sure to talk with prospective providers about common issues they’ve encountered in the past and how they were resolved. The right partner will provide responsive communication throughout the duration of your project and be transparent when it comes to pricing and timelines.
Metal Works of High Point takes a personalized approach to every project. With a focus on respect, honesty, and top-notch customer service, we can deliver the metal fabrication solutions you need while maintaining open, responsive communication.
Workforce Size & Expertise
It’s important to consider the size and expertise of a fabricator’s workforce. Companies with smaller teams may have a difficult time completing your project on time. It is also critical to ensure your fabricator’s team is composed of highly skilled and qualified craftsmen who can deliver high-quality work.
At Metal Works of High Point, our expert team brings hundreds of years of combined experience to every project. In addition to investing in the latest technology, we also invest in the training and education that goes with it to guarantee we’re providing the best possible solutions.
Certifications & Adherence to Quality Standards
Choose a metal fabrication provider that holds relevant certifications and adheres to high standards for quality. A company that values quality will be more equipped to deliver fabricated parts that meet or exceed expectations. Metal Works of High Point is ISO 9001:2015 certified, and we hold ourselves to the highest quality standards to ensure we provide superior products. In addition to our ISO certification, all of our welders are D1.3 certified.
In-House Finishing Capabilities
Look for a company that goes beyond initial construction by offering a range of finishing capabilities. Choosing a fabricator that can handle your project from start to finish saves time and money while ensuring consistency throughout the entire process.
At Metal Works of High Point, our capabilities extend to in-house powder coating and metal finishing services. This allows us to deliver completely finished products that meet your decorative and protective requirements.
Choose Metal Works of High Point—We Check Every Box
Metal Works of High Point has extensive experience providing top-quality metal fabrication services, including laser cutting, CNC forming, CNC machining, and welding. We also offer in-house powder coating and a range of other finishing services to protect your fabricated components.
From our ISO 9001:2015-certified facility, we can deliver the sheet metal fabrication solutions you need while meeting rigorous quality standards. For more information about our specific capabilities, or to work with us on your next project, contact us or request a quote today.
Electric arc welding is crucial in sheet metal fabrication because it creates strong, durable bonds between metal pieces. Among the numerous electric arc welding methods, Metal Inert Gas (MIG) and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding stand out for their quality, efficiency, and versatility.
This blog will compare MIG vs. TIG welding and help you determine which method is best suited for your specific projects.
Comparing MIG vs. TIG Welding
Choosing between MIG and TIG welding involves a thorough assessment of multiple factors. These include material type and thickness, required production speed, weld appearance, quality expectations, the welder’s skill level, and budget constraints.
MIG welding is often preferred for projects that need high production rates and user-friendly operation, making it suitable for various applications. Conversely, TIG welding offers precision and clean, aesthetic welds that are ideal for intricate or specialized tasks.
MIG Welding
Also called Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), MIG welding uses a continuous solid wire electrode fed through a welding gun to fuse base materials. A shielding gas is channeled through the welding gun to protect the weld pool from contamination by the ambient air.
Pros
MIG welding has a high production rate and user-friendly nature, making it suitable for various applications. Some of its other key advantages include:
High production rate: This welding type significantly increases overall productivity, as its faster than other methods.
Ease of use: MIG welding is suitable for both novice and seasoned welders.
Versatility in materials:A range of metals including mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum can be welded using this technique.
Cons
However, MIG welding also has some disadvantages:
Limited outdoor use: The shielding gas can be easily blown away in windy conditions, making it less suitable for outdoor applications.
Less precise than TIG welding: This technique offers good control but is generally less precise than TIG welding.
Higher equipment cost: Required equipment can be more expensive than other welding methods, particularly considering the cost of consumables such as shielding gas and wire electrodes.
TIG Welding
TIG welding, or Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), employs a non-consumable tungsten electrode to form an arc between the electrode and base material. A separate filler rod adds material to the weld pool, while a shielding gas protects the weld from contamination.
Pros
TIG welding is renowned for its high precision and control, making it ideal for applications requiring clean and aesthetically pleasing welds. Other advantages of TIG welding include:
High precision and control: TIG welding offers greater control over the welding process, allowing for precise, high-quality welds.
Clean and aesthetic welds:Due to their precision, this method produces clean, visually appealing welds with minimal spatter and post-weld cleanup.
Versatility in material thickness: TIG welding can accommodate a broad spectrum of material thicknesses, from thin sheets to thick plates.
Cons
TIG welding also presents certain drawbacks:
Slower production rate:Compared to MIG welding, this technique usually has slower speeds.
Requires more skill and experience:TIG welding is considered to be more difficult to grasp for inexperienced or new welders.
Limited material compatibility: This method is less compatible with certain materials, such as cast iron and some alloys.
Discover the Perfect Welding Solution With Metal Works of High Point
At Metal Works of High Point, we understand the importance of selecting the right welding technique for your sheet metal fabrication projects. Our skilled team will guide you and help you decide if MIG or TIG welding suits your needs best.
Our other services include laser cutting, CNC forming and machining, finishing services, and more. Contact us today to learn more!
Sheet metal fabrication uses various manufacturing techniques to transform flat metal sheets into finished products. It is a versatile process that can produce many products, from simple parts to complex assemblies. However, with different techniques available, it is essential to understand each method’s process and applications to select the most suitable one for your project.
In this article, we will list and discuss the types of sheet metal fabrication offered by Metal Works of High Point. It will specifically explore metal cutting, forming, and joining.
What Is Sheet Metal Fabrication?
Sheet metal fabrication transforms flat metal sheets into various shapes and sizes through mechanical deformation techniques. These include cutting, bending, welding, and assembling. It also encompasses creating multiple metal structures, products, and components for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, medical, defense, and electronics.
Types of Sheet Metal Fabrication
Generally, various fabrication techniques can achieve similar results. However, choosing a method that fits your budget and specific requirements is crucial. Here is an overview of different sheet metal fabrication techniques:
Metal Cutting
Metal cutting is the separation of metal into pieces or shapes using various tools and techniques. At Metal Works of High Point, we leverage cutting-edge technology to ensure precision and efficiency in metal cutting. Our 3-axis cutting equipment has sheet loading and unloading automation, enabling us to conduct 24-hour metal-cutting operations.
Specifically, our CNC laser cutters use a laser beam to heat the material’s surface to the point where it melts or evaporates. This method can precisely cut through thick metals and intricate designs, making it a crucial part of sheet metal fabrication.
Metal Forming
Metal forming is a crucial process in which mechanical deformation transforms sheet metal into desired shapes and sizes. Bending sheet metal is particularly integral in the metal forming process. This involves applying force to the material to achieve the desired shape. Furthermore, press brakes are often used to bend sheet metal components, but complex bends require extensive knowledge and experience.
Metal Works of High Point provides CNC forming and bending services to manufacture custom metal components and stampings. Our experienced team utilizes the latest technology to ensure precision and efficiency in the metal forming process.
Metal Joining
At Metal Works of High Point, our welders employ cutting-edge technologies and 3D software to develop solutions that meet or exceed customers’ requirements.
MIG and TIG Welding
Metal inert gas (MIG) welding uses a feed wire that runs through the gun to generate sparks and then melts. On the other hand, tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding utilizes rods to precisely join two metals.
Both techniques can be used on various metals but have different strengths. MIG is better suited for thicker materials because it can generate a stronger weld with a higher deposition rate. In contrast, TIG welding is preferable for thinner metals as it can produce a finer and more precise weld.
Spot Welding
Spot welding joins two or more pieces of metal together by applying pressure and heat to a small area using electrodes. The electrodes conduct an electric current, which creates resistance and generates heat. This heat then melts and fuses the metal in the spot being welded. Spot welding is commonly used when welding specific types of sheet metal, welded wire, or wire mesh.
Robotic Welding
Robotic welding uses programmable machines to automate the welding process, including the workpiece manipulation and the weld execution. This technology allows for removing the welder from potentially hazardous environments, resulting in improved safety and reduced costs. While short runs can also be automated, the benefits of robotic welding are typically most significant for larger quantities.
Partner With Metal Works of High Point for Your Sheet Metal Fabrication Needs
Since 1992, Metal Works of High Point has provided prompt and individualized sheet metal fabrication services. We also take pride in our D 1.3-certified welders and ISO 9001: 2015 certification, ensuring we adhere to the highest industry standards. Moreover, we have the most advanced equipment that yields precise and high-quality products.
Contact us for additional information on the different types of sheet metal fabrication, or obtain a quote immediately.
