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There are many different types of metal fabrication tools available in the manufacturing industry. Several types of metal fabrication tools can be used to machine parts for industrial processes, from construction to automotive. This article will explore the various metal fabrication techniques and the metal fabrication tools used in those processes.
Shaping
For the most part, the main task of metal fabrication is to cut or bend pieces of metal in a desired shape. Various types of metal fabrication tools can be used to produce a variety of different shapes. To shape metal rods and tubes, it is necessary to find the right angle, and tube and pipe benders are essential tools to have in your workshop. There are many different types of tube benders on the market, and they can be manually operated or powered by a hydraulic system that applies pressure with little effort. English wheels are another tool used for shaping but primarily used for working with flat material. The English wheel forms compound curves in sheets of metal and is best used for short run applications. Other sheet metal tools used in the metal shaping process are a press brake, sheet metal rollers, and slip roll. Each of these tools bends sheet metal requiring less complex shapes. Shrinker stretchers are used to form sheet metal without cutting or welding, and it is a common tool for creating inside curves. However, it’s important to understand that the shrinker stretcher is primarily used for inside curves and straight lines, so this tool is not always the best option for all applications. The best tools for shaping and bending will be determined by expert machinists at metal fabrication shops.
Cutting
Basic cutting is one of the most basic fabrication tools. It utilizes a sharp blade to cut metal. Shearing, on the other hand, uses two blades to cut straight lines. This process is similar to that of scissors, although one blade lowers while the other stays stationary. This tool is often used to trim the edges of metal sheets. A good shearing tool will also cut curved edges. A metal nibbler works by travelling in a straight line against a fixed die, leaving behind a 6mm-wide “kerf” in the metal. Band saws are another common metal fabrication tool use for cutting a metal component. Hand tools and power tools such as an angle grinder are used to cut, grind, deburr, polish. The top tools used for cutting will vary based on the different metals being used. Another tool in metal fabrication is a plasma cutter. This machine creates precise cuts without leaving metal chips. This tool can be used on a variety of gauges, and is cost-effective in mass production. Plasma cutters can work at room temperature, which eliminates the need for preheating sheet metal before use. This also helps in reducing labor costs. In addition to the plasma cutter, a few other common tools are useful for metal fabrication.
Welding
If done properly, you can weld many metals to produce great products that are durable and strong. Electric arc welding is used to join pieces of metal by melting the metal with the help of electricity. Depending on the welding technique being used, welding wire is available in different thicknesses to facilitate joining pieces. New welders can use a flux core welder. The process is similar to that of a MIG welder, with the advantage that there are no extra gases or shielding gasses needed. It is important to use the right technique when using a flux core welder because the electrode flux protects the metal from oxidation. A person must understand the process so they can use the tool safely and efficiently when welding for fabrication.
Measuring
Producing the best products requires precision and accuracy by the sheet metal fabricator. Machinists use more than just a tape measure to ensure products are cut to the right dimensions. Among the most common metal fabrication tools for measuring are calipers and rulers. These instruments help metal fabricators measure and mark the length of metal. They are essential to precision engineering, and they are used to measure short and long lengths. Using calipers, for example, can help you to determine the right length of a metal sheet.
Metal Fabrication Services
Custom sheet metal fabrication relies heavily on the expertise of machinists, the right tools, and state of the art metal fabrication equipment. If you are looking for an affordable metal fabrication services, Fox Valley Stamping, a metal fabrication business in Illinois, has you covered. Established in 1965, Fox Valley Stamping is a leading provider of short-run metal stamping, CNC LASER cutting, sheet metal fabrication and welding. In addition we offer a broad range of secondary and value-added options that go beyond precision metal stamping. Give us a call today!