Views: 14 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-01-24 Origin: Site
Sheet metal fabrication is a cold working process that turns different pieces of metal into thin metal sheets. These sheets are then used in different procedures to ensure that the final piece can be used appropriately. It helps when one gets to use quality metal. Since there are many types of metal in the market, it is easy for one to be confused about what works well. Here are some metal types commonly used with sheet metal fabrication.
Before you go ahead and select a metal, you need to figure out what your reason for choosing it is. That way, you end up with metal that will work with your current applications. Here are some of the main things you need to consider when picking metal for fabrication.
· Rigidity
· Strength
· Corrosion resistance
· Finish
Once you know how well the metals perform regarding the features listed, you can choose which metal will work best for you. Below are the top metals used during the fabrication:
Aluminum is commonly used in sheet metal fabrication because of how light yet strong the metal is. Its strength means it can undergo laser cutting and welding without losing its properties. It also has impeccable corrosion resistance qualities, and as such, you do not have to worry about the final piece getting spoilt after a short while.
Just as the name suggests, this metal combines different elements to come up with a different metal with a specific set of properties. The main metal used in the alloy is carbon steel which can be mixed with metals like chromium, manganese, and tungsten.
The good thing with alloy steel is you get all the properties of steel and additional features like strength and rigidity from metals added to it.
Apart from being a versatile metal, it is also quite affordable, which is what you want in your metal.
One of the biggest enemies of most metals is moisture. While most metals fight it off well at the start, it can get to a point where the moisture seeps into the metal and erodes it. If you are working with sheet metal in an area that is humid or receives a lot of rain, stainless steel should be your go-to.
You find stainless steel sheet metal used in kitchen sinks as well as office building structures. The corrosive strength makes it perfect for making products that need an extended lifespan.
One of the alloys most people go to when it comes to sheet metal is carbon steel. The combination of carbon and steel leads to a really strong metal. Manufacturers often choose the carbon content in this alloy based on the applicant.
Low carbon is used in everyday objects like fences and gates. Medium carbon is used in automobiles, while higher carbon levels are used in delicate items like wires since it makes a fragile metal.
Galvanized steel is made of cold-rolled annealed steel with a pure zinc coating. It is available as electro-galvanized sheets and hot-dipped metallic-coated sheets. Most manufacturers use this type of steel because of how corrosion-resistant it is. The affordable option between these two is the hot-dipped option. Galvanized steel can be used when making fences, handrails, nuts, and furniture. It is a commonly used household metal.
If you are looking for an extremely versatile steel metal for fabrication, you should consider tool steel. Just like you would notice with alloy steel, the elements in this metal affect the properties based on the quantity and ratio used to make it. It is made of one percent carbon and is very rigid. Tool steel is highly resistant to abrasion and works well in areas with extreme temperatures.
The properties make it perfect for construction tools like punches, dies, blades, and hammers.It can be easily fabricated to make a variety of other tools in the market hence the name tool steel.
The kind of metal you choose will affect the final products. It also limits the application you can use the sheet metal for. You need to research the metal's properties before using it. The types of metals listed above have been tried and tested and proven effective in sheet metal.
Different manufacturers will recommend different sheet metals, so it helps if you know what will work for you. Take your time to know each metal's pros and cons before settling on a particular sheet metal.