Originally posted on 04/18/2019
Sheet metal fabrication is the method of building or repairing parts by joining, shaping, or forming metal. This process comes in many different shapes and sizes. When you add in the creative side of making custom sheet metal pieces, the options extend almost infinitely.
We don’t have an exhaustive list here, as that would be impossible. Instead, you will find the most top sheet metal fabrication techniques we have seen in our years in the industry.
1. Metal Break Bending
One common need is for metal to bend into a new form. A metal break creates the angles needed for many jobs. A press brake will typically apply several tons of force to a sheet of metal creating the precise bend.
2. Resistance Welding
Many jobs call for a metalworker to join two sheets of metal together. The best way to achieve this is through resistance welding. Computer-controlled welding machines can join sheets of metal quicker than a human eye can blink.
3. Laser Cutting
Laser cutting is a technique used to achieve several creative designs. An expert can precisely cut a complicated pattern without impacting the surrounding material. CNC machines can do similar tasks, but the stamping process puts excessive strain on the entire piece weakening it.
4. Expanding Metal
An expanding machine can put open space in a sheet of metal differently than a CNC or laser machine. An expanding machine stretches and adds geometric shapes such as diamonds, squares, or hexagons to a sheet of metal. Instead of wasting the material from the created holes, the machine pushes metal out of the space into the surrounding area. Expanding metal is less wasteful and stronger than wire mesh or stamping processes.
Consider JML Sheet Metal for Your Metal Fabrication Needs
For expert custom sheet metal fabrication in Metro Detroit, look no further than the experts at JML Sheet Metal. Give us a call today to start your next project.
