From the wings of a Boeing 747 to the hood of a vintage muscle car, sheet metal comprises the many structures and artifacts we cherish. How does it transform from a sheet of metal to the intricate designs that define these creations? We show you how sheet metal fabrication works, from the basics to the process, and more in our quick guide!
The Fundamentals of Sheet Metal Fabrication
To understand sheet metal fabrication, you should grasp what sheet metal is. This flat metal piece can vary in thickness depending on the application. Typically, sheets include steel, aluminum, brass, and copper because of their malleability and strength.
A skilled fabricator can bend, stretch, and cut sheet metal, allowing for the production of a wide range of products. Professionals also understand material properties and focus on gauges to measure the thickness of the metal sheet. The gauge is inversely relative to the thickness—the lower the gauge, the thicker the sheet.
Explaining the Fabrication Process
Sheet metal fabrication includes cutting, bending, and joining the sheet metal. Bending occurs when the fabricator takes a flat sheet and turns it into a 3D structure. A common method is using a press brake, which applies force along the length of the metal to bend it at a specific angle.
Joining encompasses a variety of techniques, from welding with electricity or gas to simplified processes such as press fit hardware. These methods are critical for assembling different parts into a unified structure, with each requiring unique expertise and tools.
Advanced Fabrication Techniques
Computer numerical control (CNC) technology shines as a beacon of precision in metal fabrication. CNC machines direct the fabrication of parts with unrivaled accuracy. Sheet metal fabricators program these machines with precise measurements to cut metal, decrease waste, and increase fabrication speed.
Laser and stamping with a punch press are the superheroes of efficient metal cutting. Lasers offer an incredibly small kerf and can cut various metals with speed. Meanwhile, CNC stamping allows for fast accurate cutting, forming, and tapping, making quick work of thin to medium thickness sheets.
Find Sheet Metal Fabrication Services at Sytech Inc.
We hope our quick guide to how sheet metal fabrication works has opened your eyes to the vast and varied world of sheet metal fabrication. At Sytech Inc., we don’t just work with sheet metal; we sculpt it into the solutions that drive the modern world.
Working with a reliable and skilled metal fabrication partner is key to turning your designs into reality. Get in touch with us to explore how our fabrication expertise can be the catalyst for your next innovation!