We can thus define metal fabrication as the process of cutting, bending, and assembling structures from the various parts of metals. Thinking of this, this is a task that will need a skilled technician.

The stages involved in the fabrication process

During fabrication, the metal is usually cut to sizes either by use of the mechanized techniques such as chiseling, shearing, and sawing or manually.  However, with the technological developments, there has been more time-saving methods such as the use of torches or water jets that have really gained popularity as they are automated.  This complex process thus rather starts with a humble sheet of metals, thus this process is usually termed as sheet metal fabrication.

After the completion of cutting, the nest step that follows is the bending of the metal into the various shapes.  This is normally done via hammering and through press brakes.  This process is always either automated or manual.  These press brakes will clamp the metal sheet using the dies and punches.

Lastly, all these pieces are measured one more before they get assembles via techniques such as binding, riveting, fastening, and welding.  These are the general steps that sum up the entire metal fabrication process. More so, metals can be fabricated by the use of special processes like stamping.  The best technique is suitable for the production of large quantities of similar parts. This begins with the creation of mold or stamp that is used in the stamping machines to stamp the sheet metal pieces out.

This process of stumping however could require very high investments in the mold building. However, once you have these molds built, then the economies of scale come into handy as the costs per part are rather low. This process is usually used for items such as the hinges, panels, vents among others. There are plenty of metals being used in the fabrication process with steel being the most commonly used.  Carbon is the common alloy due to its costs and it also adds the desirable qualities to metals such as hardness, malleability, and strength. However, this is always dependant on the amount of carbon you choose adding to the product.

The one disadvantage of this carbon though is that it is susceptible to corrosion.  In such a case, you can choose a painting or adding a coating to the surface to offer greater protection.  Otherwise,   you can choose using the process of stainless steel fabrication for better results.   The stainless steel fabrication is highly recommended when you are in need of parts that can endure corrosion.

Though this metal fabrication industry is growing rapidly, it is ideal for selecting the most reputable fabricators. Consider a company like USA Contract Manufacturing Specialists, service providers that are able to recommend the best metals, offer you reasonable manufacturing facilities, and even offer practical designs.  The metal fabrication products have been in use for thousands of years to make the most long-lasting equipment and tools that are durable.