There are many reliable sheet metal fabrication techniques available, but some may be more appropriate for specific applications than others. Familiarizing yourself with the sheet metal fabrication process will help you determine which technique is best suited for your projects. Here is a basic rundown of different methods of fabrication of sheet metal to help you decide.
Sheet metal stamping is when formations are made in the metal simultaneously or using a progressive die. This method is usually appropriate when you have a repeat high-volume need for a product, as you can create many pieces quickly.
When you need to create two and three-dimensional shaped pieces on a budget, sheet metal bending and forming using CNC or press brake metal bending is usually the best option. You can create multiple shapes to support various quantities of low to high volume runs at an affordable cost. This is also an option that is used to allow you to make small tweaks to your finished product over its life and minimize or eliminate tooling cost altogether.
Fairlawn Tool specializes in this method due to our advanced Italian Crippa 955LE CNC tube bender, one of the most sophisticated electric tube benders in the world. For creating close shapes fast and with a high degree of accuracy, tube bending is the way to go.
If you have very precise requirements for your product, precision sheet metal fabrication is your preferred method. Fairlawn Tool uses precise methods for stamping, forming, bending, shearing, punching, welding and finishing with accuracy and consistency for your unique specifications.
CNC turret punching is the way to go when you need to create holes, squares or basically any shape or pattern in flat metal sheets. This method is preferable for this application, because it provides value and precision, especially with medium to large quantity orders. Turret punching produces uniform features and good alignment between stock tools and feature sizes.
If your components or end product require welding joining parts or materials together, robotic welding is the high-quality choice for your job. This automatic welding method can produce highly accurate, consistent results in a short period of time.
For lower volume or custom orders, you may opt for manual welding over robotic welding.
If you’re having any trouble at all determining which type of metal fabrication is right for you and your project, Fairlawn Tool is happy to help. We offer full-service metal fabrication assistance to PA, MD, NC, SC, VA, NJ and NY. We understand the specific nature of metal fabrication and can help determine the right process for you and your company’s needs. We’ve helped countless companies meet all their metal fabrication requirements and deadlines for years and can do the same for you. To learn more about metal fabrication methods or to place an order, contact us today.
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