Types of Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication is a process that produces a finished product or structure by working with raw materials and machines. It can also be a way to recycle metals and other materials. The metal fabrication industry is expected to grow with the expansion of the economy. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 22% increase in job opportunities in the field over the next decade.

 

Most metal fabricators start by using a computer aided design (CAD) software to create a plan. This is then translated into programming for automated machinery. Using these machines, a designer can make changes and adjustments to the design before the next stage of production.

 

Many fabricators are pushing for greater flexibility in equipment, allowing more types of fabrication methods to be used. These methods include bending, welding, and cutting. Fabricators must use proper safety measures, including respirators to shield workers' breathing zones.

 

Welding is one of the most common metal fabrication methods. It joins pieces of metal together with a conductive gas. Various types of welding equipment are available, such as torches, consumable electrodes, and power sources. Depending on the application, the size of the welding wire may vary. Read more about this service now.

 

Other metal fabrication processes include bending and casting. Bending commonly occurs in the automotive and aerospace industries. For some applications, such as the construction of a bridge or a girder, bending is necessary to shape the workpiece. Decorative metal is often installed on the exterior of commercial buildings. Sand casting is another process that uses a mold to form the shape of a metal.

 

Some metal fabricators specialize in a particular type of fabrication. For example, a steel fabricator can specialize in bending, welding, and stamping. However, many fabricators also specialize in different aspects of the industry, such as designing, engineering, or assembling.

 

Stamping involves punching holes in metal sheets. Typically, this process is carried out on thin sheet metal. Although it can be done on other materials, it's more effective on metals like aluminum, which can be hot rolled and forged. Typical stamping tools are called rams.

 

Cutting is another simple metal fabrication process. A technician can use flame cutting, waterjet cutting, or sawing to cut metal into desired shapes. Shearing is another metal fabrication method that involves cutting small pieces from a large sheet of metal.

 

Another basic fabrication process is impact extrusion. This is a manufacturing process that creates cylindrical or tubular parts from a billet. Hot extrusion is often used for aluminum or copper. Cold extrusion is typically used for steel. Visit this website: https://acelaserco.com/metal-fabrication-services-santa-fe-springs/ to discover more about this service.

 

 

Other fabrication methods include welding, cutting, bending, and casting. The techniques used to create these products are dependent on the project, but some of the most common methods are listed below. Be sure to consult with a fabricator before starting a project, and listen to customer feedback.

 

As a result of the expanding economy and the advancing technology, the fabrication industry is expected to continue to expand. With a strong strategy, a fabricator can survive and thrive in the industry.

This post will help you understand the topic even better: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_fabrication.