Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication - Versatility

Sheet metal is one of the most versatile types of material today because it can be transformed into different usable products through custom sheet metal fabrication. Sheet metal is thin enough to be made into roofs of buildings or shaped into ductwork, exhaust hoods, gutters and flashings. We offer sheet metal in different gauges so that there is always a precise thickness for your project.

 

There are many different tools and techniques used in custom sheet metal fabrication.

 

Most sheet metal bending operations are handled through the punch and die setup to achieve a desired bend angle but there are instances when a simple hammer does the job. A metal brake is another tool that is common in sheet metal fabrication. When a metal brake is used, sheet metal is placed on a flat gated surface and then clamped with a flat bar placed on top of the work-piece. The gated portion is lifted so that the sheet of metal can be bent to the desired angle. A work-piece may have to undergo several processes to achieve the specified requirements.

Cutting is another process in sheet metal fabrication that can be performed through simple manual tools or machines that have been integrated with new technology. An example of a simple cutting tool is the aviation snips that looks like a heavy-duty scissor. The snips is frequently used to cut through soft sheet metals like aluminum and thin gauge steel. Band saws are often favored to cut through thicker gauge sheet metal but the problem is the sharp edge left behind that needs deburring.

Power shears that run on air pressure or electricity are also used in cutting sheet metal but they cannot be used for intricate or complex shapes and tight corners. Throatless shears are designed to make straight cuts and shapes in sheet metal but, since they are manually operated, they are not the best option for high production volumes.

Plasma cutting is one of the more modern technologies used in sheet metal fabrication because it cuts with speed and extreme accuracy. Plasma cutters are used for precision fabrication because they have been engineered to produce the sharpest and highest quality cuts. Compared to other cutting technologies like laser cutting and oxy-fuel cutting, plasma cutters are more cost effective. It is economically more feasible because of the fast cutting speeds usually required in high volume production.

Call or visit Demtra Sheet Metal today to find out how we can help build your project!