Sheet metal fabrication

[edit] Introduction

Metal fabrication is the process of creating metal products by bending, cutting and assembling. This value-added process results in the creation of machines, parts and metallic structures from raw materials. Metal fabrication has a broad range of applications and so is used in many industries:

• Waste management and utilities
• Aerospace
• Carpentry
• Mining
• Farming
• Catering
• Hospitality
• Transport
• Pharmaceuticals
• Shipbuilding
• Construction

The process of metal fabrication requires cutting of sheet metal using metal cutting tools from reliable suppliers. These tools can bend, cut and shape sheet metals. Once the metal sheets are cut and shaped according to the requirement, they are welded to form various components.

[edit] Benefits of metal fabrication In construction

Sheet metal is one of the most commonly used materials in the construction industry -- from cladding used for buildings to anti-slip surfaces. The application of sheet-metal fabrication is not only limited to industrial and commercial sectors. From perforated metal screens to metal fireplace surrounds, the domestic sector also benefits.

Sheet metals provide numerous advantages for construction, such as:

[edit] Recyclable

Since metals can be recycled easily, and processed into valuable raw materials for the smelting of new metal, metal fabrication can be seen as an eco-friendly process. While some environmentalists may argue that sheet metal production leads to pollution and excessive energy consumption, various technological advances have reduced the environmental impacts of metal fabrication.

[edit] Versatile

Sheet metals are thin, yet are used to make sturdy structures because of their high-strength. Since they are relatively low-weight, they can be easily transported and delivered. Sheet metals can be fabricated by chipping, soldering, welding, cutting and casting. As a result, they are used for various applications such as roofs, cladding, fences and staircases.

[edit] Durable

Sheet metals are highly strong and durable and thus make a material that can withstand high-pressure in various applications from high traffic to harsh agricultural environments. They are also resistant to corrosion, sun and moisture, which means when used in construction, there will be no damage from pests, fire or mould.

[edit] Malleable

Sheet metals are highly malleable, which means they can be beaten and formed into any shape. This property makes them a useful material for the construction industry as it allows designers and architects to offer bespoke design solutions for customers.

[edit] Maintenance

Metal has low maintenance requirements and is not susceptible to damage. Additionally, repairs can be easily made by dismantling and replacing the damaged sheet without having to take down the structure completely.

[edit] Low cost

Lastly, sheet metal fabrication can be cost-effective, especially in the long-term and for high-volume production runs.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Aluminium.
• Cast iron.
• Copper.
• Difference between cast iron and wrought iron.
• Failure of cast iron beams.
• Iron.
• Ironwork.
• Lead.
• Mesh mould metal.
• Metal composite panels.
• Metal fabrication.
• Metal profile cladding
• Metal roofing
• Steel.
• The Iron Bridge.
• Types of steel.
• Wrought iron.