Sheet Metal Fabrication 101: A Basic Knowledge Guide – Part 2

In this second part of the article, we will focus on the options for material for sheet metal fabrication as well as the surface finish selection you can choose from. 

There is a range of materials available today used in sheet metal engineering. Knowing which one works best for your desired end product is essential to ensure the highest quality possible. 

Here are some of the materials used for sheet metal fabrication:

Stainless Steel

This is a material that is used in several different industries. It is used in everything from the medical field to the food industry. It is known for its corrosion-resistant properties. There are many grades of stainless steel available, with most modern stainless steel alloys being more corrosion and rust-resistant than their older counterparts.

Hot Rolled Steel

This type of steel is often used in the automotive and appliance industries. Hot rolled steel offers a range of benefits, including flexibility and strength, and it can be cut in a number of ways. Hot rolled steel is not as corrosion and rust-resistant as stainless steel.

Cold Rolled Steel

This is a material of steel that has had its thickness decreased by passing it through cold rolling mills. This causes the material to be more flexible and to have a higher degree of tensile strength. It is also often processed by additional rolling and drawing, which increases the hardness of the material.

Aluminum

This is a material that is typically used in the aerospace industry. It is an ideal material for sheet metal fabrications because it is lightweight and robust. However, some people may have an adverse reaction to aluminum. Aluminum comes in various alloys, depending on the desired end product. 

Copper

Copper is a material most often used in situations where its corrosion-resistant qualities are needed. It is often used in the plumbing and electrical industries. There are a number of copper alloys available designed for specific uses.

Surface Finish Selection for Sheet Metal Fabrication

Once you have selected the material you will use for sheet metal fabrication, you now need to choose how you want the piece to be finished. There is a range of different surface finishes available today:

Sand Blasting

This is a process in which the surface of a metal is scoured using fine sand. This process creates a matte finish and can be used on various metal types.

Buff Polishing

Buff polishing is achieved using a polishing wheel. A compound is added to the wheel, and the metal is buffed repeatedly to achieve a high shine. Buffing is a popular method for achieving a mirror finish on metal.

Powder Coating

Powder coating is a surface finish often used on industrial and construction machinery. It gives the piece a glossy finish. Powder coating is known for its resistance to corrosion and chemicals.

Anodizing

Anodizing is a process that is used to achieve a thick oxide on a metal surface. It is performed in an electrolytic cell to achieve a uniform thickness. Anodizing is used to increase the corrosion and stain resistance of the metal. It also gives metal a high gloss.

Chemical Films

This process deposits layers of metal or non-metal onto a surface. The purpose of the chemical film is to change the color and corrosion resistance of the metal.

Conclusion

We hope you found this article about sheet metal fabrication to be informative, and you were able to learn more about how this process is carried out. 

CSM Fabrication Welding is one of the most trusted sheet metal fabricators in Perth that offer reliable services. We work with all steel types and can provide you with onsite services. Contact us to know more about what we can do for you!