Metal fabrication services are something every business needs on occasion. Whether it is for a large project or a smaller repair, there are companies out there that provide these services. These companies can save you time and money when you need metal work done around your business or home. Here are some reasons why you should make the decision to get these services.
Metal Fabrication Services
The sheet metal services industry produces many different parts and products for commercial, industrial, and residential applications. Metal fabrication is a technology that relies on several processes and techniques to shape raw materials into a finished product.
Most fabricators are able to work with several types of metals including steel, aluminum, iron, and other more exotic metals. Many fabricators also provide additional services such as welding, painting, finishing and assembly to name a few. In addition to providing various services, most fabricators have the ability to handle small prototype jobs as well as large production runs.
In addition to being able to work with different materials and sizes of projects, most metal fabrication companies offer expert advice on the best type of material for your project. They know the strengths and weaknesses of the most commonly used metals, allowing them to recommend the best material for your application.
In addition to offering a wide range of materials and services, most fabricators can also handle projects of various sizes. Some smaller shops are able to provide custom fabrication for small products or items that are not usually produced by larger companies. This allows customers to choose between different sizes of items that meet their specific needs.
Laser Cutting
Laser cutting is a technology that uses a laser to cut materials, and is typically used for industrial manufacturing applications, but is also starting to be used by schools, small businesses, and hobbyists. Laser cutting works by directing the output of a high-power laser most commonly through optics. The laser optics and CNC (computer numerical control) are used to direct the material or the laser beam generated.
A typical commercial laser for custom sheet metal would involve a motion control system to follow a CNC or G-code of the pattern to be cut onto the material. The focused laser beam is directed at the material, which then either melts, burns, vaporizes away, or is blown away by a jet of gas, leaving an edge with a high-quality surface finish. Industrial laser cutters are used to cut flat-sheet material as well as structural and piping materials.
Press Brake Forming
Press brake bending is a forming process by which a piece of sheet, or plate, metal is bent by an operator and mechanical press into various shapes. The process can be carried out with a number of different types of presses, but the most common are mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic.
The process is often used to create parts with multiple bends such as brackets and enclosure shells for the electronics industry. Press brake forming allows manufacturers to form pieces at high volumes in a highly efficient manner. The process is also easy to set up, which reduces downtime and lead times.
Press brake forming can be performed on all types of metals including steel, aluminum, copper and brass. A range of finishes can be applied to the parts post-forming if required.
Folding and Rolling
Folding and rolling are the most common ways to store clothes in your closet, but there are a few tips to keep in mind.
Folding: Folding is great for t-shirts and sweaters. If you're short on space, fold sweaters so they stand vertically instead of laying them flat. This will allow you to see them all at a glance, and save space by stacking them.
Rolling: Rolling is best for pajamas, jeans, chinos, dress pants and skirts. When rolled, they take up less space than when folded. Growing up, my mom was always rolling my clothes. She even used to roll my bath towels. I'm not sure if it was something she learned from her mother or if she picked it up from a reality show like Clean House or How Clean Is Your House? Either way, it works well for storage purposes.
Plasma Cutting
Plasma cutting is a process that cuts through electrically conductive materials by means of an accelerated jet of hot plasma. Typical materials cut with a plasma torch include steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass and copper, although other conductive metals may be cut as well. Plasma cutting is often used in fabrication shops, automotive repair and restoration, industrial construction and salvage operations.
Plasma cutting is the fastest cutting process on carbon steel, aluminum and stainless steel. Consumable life is long compared to oxy-fuel cutting, but the capital investment is higher and the cut quality may not be as good for some applications.
Plasma cutting systems can be configured for mechanized applications such as robotic cutting, gantry/platen (fixed table) or circular/pipe cutting. In addition to hand-held torches, plasma systems are used in automated industrial manufacturing applications such as profile cutting with high definition CNC machine centers.
Sheet Metal Fabrication
Sheet metal fabrication is the act of forming, shaping, and joining metal together to build and or repair a tangible part. There are many techniques and tools. It’s also possible to weld or seal the seams and joints.
Sheet metal fabrication is a value added process that involves the creation of machines, parts, and structures from various raw materials. A sheet metal fabrication shop will employ a wide range of machinery such as brakes, rolls, shears, laser cutters, punch presses, and other machine tools based on the needs of the customer and complexity of design.
However, a key element in the manufacturing process is welding and the welding process can be broken down into four main categories: gas welding, arc welding, resistance welding and solid state welding.
Metal Fabrication is a great way to construct large buildings and other machinery
Metal fabrication is a key element of the construction industry. It involves cutting, bending, and shaping metal to create things like duct work, door frames, support beams, and many other items that are essential to many different types of construction projects. Metal fabricators may also be called upon to repair or alter existing pieces of metal.
Metals are used in a wide range of applications in the construction industry, such as residential buildings and commercial structures. Contractors need fabricated structures with precise tolerances and proper materials to build safe and secure buildings. Steel, aluminum and other metals are used for framing and supporting buildings. Metal fabrication can be used for custom made parts for different types of machinery.
