Sheet metal fabrication entails forming metal sheets into the desired shape using various manufacturing techniques. Typically, numerous processes are required to complete a product, including cutting, bending, welding, and assembly.
There are various dependable techniques for fabricating sheet metal, although some may be more suitable for specific purposes than others. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the different types of sheet metal fabrication to choose the most appropriate approach for your applications.
This article will list and discuss the types of sheet metal fabrication forming, cutting, and joining offered by Metal Works of High Point..
What Is Sheet Metal Fabrication?
Sheet metal fabrication uses different methods to create metal structures. Steel or other metal sheets are typically fabricated or assembled to produce a bigger finished product. In addition, it encompasses a variety of techniques, such as welding, to offer a high-quality finish on a diverse range of products of varying sizes and shapes.
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 Works of High Point is equipped with 3-axis laser cutting equipment, sheet loading and unloading automation, and a system that enables 24-hour metal-cutting operations.
Laser Cutting
Laser cutting is a sheet metal fabrication technique performed by CNC laser cutters. The laser beam strikes the material’s surface and heats it to the point where it melts or evaporates.
The main advantage of this method is its ability to precisely cut through the thickest metals and most intricate designs.
Metal Forming
Metal Works of High Point is an experienced and reliable manufacturer of custom metal components and stampings that provides CNC forming and bending services.
Bending
The method of bending sheet metal involves applying force to the material, which forces the metal to bend at an angle and achieve the desired shape. Press brakes are utilized to bend sheet metal components. However, due to the complexity of certain bends, this procedure is the most challenging stage in metal fabrication, requiring extensive knowledge and experience.
Metal Joining
At Metal Works of High Point, our expert welders employ cutting-edge technologies and 3D software to develop and build solutions that meet or exceed your requirements.
MIG and TIG Welding
MIG (metal inert gas) welding uses a feed wire that runs continuously through the gun to generate the spark and then melts to make the weld. On the other hand, TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding utilizes rods to precisely join two metals.
MIG and TIG welding may be used on a wide variety of metals, with MIG being better suited for thicker materials and TIG being suitable for thinner ones.
Spot Welding
Spot welding is resistance welding that joins two or more metal sheets by applying pressure and heat from an electric current to the weld area. It is commonly used when welding specific types of sheet metal, welded wire, or wire mesh.
Robotic Welding
Robotic welding uses mechanized, programmable instruments that fully automate the welding process by conducting the weld and manipulating the workpiece. As a result, it removes the welder from an uncomfortable and potentially hazardous environment while reducing costs and improving quality. You can also automate short runs, but the economic impact is inevitably greater for larger quantities.
Partner With Metal Works of High Point for Your Sheet Metal Fabrication Needs!
Metal Works of High Point has a team of experts with a combined century of experience to provide prompt and individualized service! Our team is proud of our D 1.3-certified welders, and we adhere to the most stringent industry requirements. Moreover, we are an ISO 9001:2015-certified establishment.
We also have cutting-edge 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.