Choosing the Right Material for My Production Manufacturing Project

August 31, 2020

High-volume metal fabrication processes call for precision and accuracy. The materials you choose for your project can provide different results based on your budget, desired thickness and expectations for a finished product. If you’re wondering how to select a material for your metal fabrication needs, first take a look at some common options that may be suitable for your industry.

Metals Used for High-volume Fabrication

All metals showcase different levels of strength, hardness and corrosion resistance. High-volume metal fabrication companies typically handle the following materials to match your vision for tools, equipment, structures and more:

Steel

Steel materials are involved in construction fields due to their exceptional durability. Fabricators recommend using steel when a business is on a strict budget but requires versatility for welding. Steel offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and is malleable enough to take on virtually any shape. From support beams to weaponry, steel has a permanent home in the fabrication world.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is frequently used for high-volume metal fabrication because of its corrosion-resistant properties. This metal offers a distinct shine, is easy to clean, and sees widespread use in everything from kitchen appliances to medical instruments.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a cost-friendly material that can be cut and machined into unique shapes. Fabricators will use aluminum because it bends quickly to a client’s specifications, and sheets remain strong in freezing temperatures. A project manager might use aluminum for refrigeration products and aircraft parts.

Copper

Copper plays an important role in contract manufacturing because of its electrical conductivity and attractive finish. High-volume metal fabrication shops are quick to use copper for its malleability and resistance to rust. Businesses can fabricate copper to create bathroom fixtures, boating gear, industrial platforms and more.

Brass

Brass is less expensive than copper and performs well in high-temperature settings. The metal is resistant to electricity as well, making it ideal for automotive parts and hardware pieces that might be exposed to friction or sparks.

Why Material Selection Matters in Metal Fabrication

Selecting a material for metal fabrication requires business owners to think about product cost, appearance and performance. It’s best to choose a metal that suits your budget and the end product’s intended use.

A high-volume metal fabrication company like Summit Steel will help you pick the right metal after hearing more about your vision so that each product is safe under real-world conditions.

Metal Material Criteria for Metal Fabrication

Picking the right metal for fabrication involves assessing various physical properties. You want to use a sheet metal material that can provide long-term results for your applications with a finish that is pleasing to the eye. Professional fabricators use the following criteria to help you make a final decision for production manufacturing efforts:

  • Metal strength: A major factor for tension, pressure and static loads.
  • Corrosion resistance: Fabricators want to know if your design is for indoor or outdoor use.
  • Weight: Will users be expected to move your final product?
  • Finish options: Business owners might want to paint or powder-coat metal surfaces.
  • Malleability: Consider the final shape of your product. Is it necessary to bend or join metal sheets together?

Contact Summit Steel for a Free Quote Today

Summit Steel is the obvious choice for high-volume metal fabrication on the East Coast. With our 120,000-square-foot facility in Reading, Pennsylvania, we specialize in environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and cater to businesses in all industries. Kickstart your next metal fabrication project by completing a contact form with us today to receive a free quote.

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