Sheet metal fabrication is the process of creating finished components from flat sheets of metal. This is a manufacturing technique used across a huge array of different industries – the automotive industry, the construction industry, aerospace, appliances or other commercial ones. We’ll break down the process for you below:
Designing and Planning
Fabrication begins with a detailed design and plan, which quite often involves computer-aided design models along with technical drawings to help plan out the dimensions and materials needed for the job. This is helpful to turn a simple concept into something that can be manufactured, perhaps in bulk. Companies such as https://dkmsheetmetal.co.uk can help turn a concept into a reality.
Cutting the Metal
Design work done? It’s time to cut and shape the sheet of metal. This can be done in a few different ways:
- Laser cutting, which is a very precise method
- Plasma cutting, ideal for thicker sheets of metal
- Water jet cutting, which is good for sensitive materials as it is heat free
- Shearing, which can be best for simple and straight cuts.
As you can see, the method typically depends on the thickness and type of metal you’re using.
Bending and Forming
Now the sheets will need to be transformed into the component by bending or forming them. This can be done with manufacturing tools such as press brakes, via roll forming, stamping or punching. These methods help transform the flat sheet metal into its 3D final form.
Welding and Assembly
If there are lots of components to bring together, they’ll likely be welded, using a variety of techniques. Then they might be ground smooth or inspected to make sure they’re structurally intact. Bolts might be used to connect other components and reveal the finished product.
Finishing Up
The last step will be coating or treating the metal, if needed, such as by galvanising it to prevent corrosion or deburring it to remove any sharp edges. Then the material should last the distance, withstand the weather and pass any final safety testing or inspections.