There are dozens of ways to fabricate sheet metal based on the application. These include:
Bending
Sheet metal is positioned within a bending machine and bent to the desired shape.
The most common bending machine is called a press brake. The brake utilizes a die and hydraulic press to imprint the bend onto the metal.
Typically, used to form electronics enclosures.
Stamping
A sheet metal blank is placed into a stamping press where it is formed into the desired shape using a tool and die.
It is the most versatile fabrication technique because parts are stamped multiple times forming complex shapes.
Stamping techniques include flanging, embossing, punching, blanking, and coining.
Utilized in countless applications, but most commonly in automotive body parts and metal brackets.
Deep drawing
Sheet metal is pressed into a die or stretched onto a form using a punch to radially form a uniqueshaped part.
Only used when stamping is not possible because the depth of the drawn part needs to exceed its diameter.
Typically used for making medical devices, kitchen sinks, and automotive fuel tanks.
Laser cutting
A laser cuts or engraves metal by heating and burning it.
Used to cut out parts that require extremely precise cuts, down to 0.025mm.
The process is accurately repeatable and cost-effective with applications ranging from medical to aerospace to hobby enthusiasts.
Hemming and seaming
In hemming, the edge of the sheet metal is bent back onto itself to reinforce the edge.
Seaming involves the edges of two pieces of sheet metal joined together to form a joint.
Seaming can commonly be seen in canning, while the automotive industry uses hemming.
Sheet metal is a great manufacturing technique to incorporate into your design. If you are unsure how to get started or would like some expert advice on using sheet metal in manufacturing, contact us and we would be happy to help.
