One of the most essential forms of modern industrial manufacturing is sheet metal fabrication

American industry is propelled by the sheet metal production process; almost every type of manufacturer depends in some manner on parts, specialist components, structures, or equipment that are a direct outcome of sheet metal fabrication. Sheet metal plays a crucial part in everything from large industrial structures to the most delicate digital assemblies.

What Is The Sheet Metal Working Process?

The number of distinct techniques and equipment used in sheet metal manufacturing is almost as great as the variety of uses it has. From laser cutting to press brake forming, their fundamental purpose is to turn a sheet of metallic material into use for a particular product. There are numerous ways to accomplish this.

Bending and Forming

Sheet metal is bent using special equipment like press brakes to produce U bends, V bends, and custom shapes from flat metal sheets. Metal can be bent or formed by stamping, machining, and folding, among other techniques. 

Cutting

Various tools, from simple to sophisticated, can be used during the sheet metal cutting process. Laser cutting is frequently necessary for precision cutting of hard materials, precious metals, and specialty alloys. Because computer-assisted programs make sure that the most effective patterns are employed, this procedure increases productivity while also allowing for more accuracy and precision when cutting products.

Assembly

Often, a part cannot be produced from a single, flat sheet of metal; instead, two or more separate sections must be joined via a welding technique or assembly. A single, bound metallic component can be made using a variety of techniques, including welding, brazing, riveting, and adhesives.

Finishing

Paint, powder coatings, silk screening, and other personalized surface treatments can be used to finish and preserve a sheet of metal after it has been cut, shaped, bent, or otherwise completed. Some of these automated finishing processes aim to provide the metal with certain qualities like increased strength, conductivity, or resistance to corrosion or specific chemicals. AMS offers powder coating.

Material Selection

Material selection is a crucial phase in any sheet metal manufacturing process since some materials are simpler to work with than others. Making a thoughtful, well-researched material decision can help a project save a lot of money, time, and effort in addition to ensuring that the project’s ultimate cost and performance fit are optimal.

AMS can suggest the proper material to choose for your project. We take pride in specializing in various materials and providing a wide range of services at our shop in Fort Worth, TX, including laser cutting for incredibly tight tolerances and precision machining for sheet metal processes.

For more information on sheet metal fabrication processes or the benefits of particular processes or materials, contact the team at AMS today.

By Leslie Radford, Advent Trinity Marketing Agency