The Different Types of Metal Fabrication
Metal fabrication is a process in which a variety of materials are assembled, either by hand or through a machine, in order to produce something new. There are different ways to carry out this process, including welding, forging, extrusion, die cutting, and forming. All of these methods can be used to manufacture objects, from the small to the large.
Die cutting
Die cutting is a steel fabrication process that cuts materials into a specific shape. It is used for a wide range of applications.
The die cutting process involves the use of a custom-designed die. The die can be made of metal, wood, or plastic.
Die cutting is an ideal process for manufacturers who want to create virtually any shape. It is also a good choice for high volume products. There are many different materials that can be die cut, including paper, foam, plastic, and rubber.
When choosing a die-cutting machine, there are a number of factors to consider. Some machines have higher-speed capabilities, and some can automatically run the process based on the material being used.
Forming
Forming metal fabrication is the process of reshaping or deforming metal objects. It involves the use of various manufacturing technologies. A few of the processes used in this industry include roll forming, deep drawing, and bending.
Roll forming is one of the most common metal forming processes. This involves passing a sheet of flat metal through two rollers in the same direction. The end product is a thin metal plate.
In the forming process, the mechanical properties of the metal determine the extent of deformation that can be achieved. It is important to keep in mind that the strength and formability of the material will dictate the amount of stress and tension applied to the metal during forming.
Welding
Welding in metal fabrication is an essential part of creating a solid product. In addition to improving the look of your finished product, a well-made weld can reduce the chances of breakage.
Welding involves joining two pieces of metal together with a fusion process. This process uses a combination of electric current and heat to fuse the materials. It is the most commonly used fabrication process.
Some of the most common weld faults include porosity, which makes the weld weaker. Also, incomplete fusion can increase the likelihood of the weld failing.
Welding in metal fabrication also requires a lot of skill. To ensure the quality of the weld, it is essential to use a highly qualified welder.
Extrusion
Extrusion is the process of creating a series of cross-sectional shapes from a single piece of metal. These can range from simple parts to complex, multi-part assemblies. It is an effective, economic, and simple manufacturing technique. However, there are many factors to consider in the process. In addition to forming the metal, there are many forces that play a role in the process.
The first step in the extrusion process involves the creation of a round billet, which is a type of feed metal. This can be made by hot rolling or continuous casting.
Next, the billet is hydraulically compressed into cylinders. Once it is formed, it is ready for the extrusion process. A ram is used to force the metal through the die.
Forging
Forging in metal fabrication is a process that can be used to create a wide range of geometrical shapes. It is an effective way to produce parts with exceptional strength and durability.
This manufacturing method takes advantage of a metal’s natural grain flow. This enables the creation of stronger, more ductile products. The finished product is also more durable and resistant to creep.
Forging produces strong, dependable objects that are ideal for critical applications. However, a forged part is expensive up front. If you want a product that is inexpensive, casting is an alternative.
Besides forging, you can also choose to have a welded structure. While a welded part may be less expensive than a forging, it is not usually free of porosity. You will need to carefully choose the joining materials for your welded structure.
Custom fabrication
Custom metal fabrication is a process of creating unique metal parts to suit a particular project. It may involve a combination of hand and machine methods. The process starts with a design and continues until the finished product is ready.
This process can be more efficient and less costly than traditional manufacturing. A skilled custom fabricator can ensure a high quality, compatible product. Using this service can save time and money for any company.
For example, a jeweler may ask a fabricator to create a one of a kind clasp for a bracelet. Another may require a machined aluminum case for a new gadget.