Sheet Metal Fabrication Process & Welding

Sheet metal fabrication is using sheet metal to build metal machines and structures. It can be a complex process involving many different professionals. Businesses that specialize in sheet metal fabrication are commonly referred to as fabrication shops, or fab shops for short.

Sheet metal fabrication generally involves cutting and burning the sheet metal. Special tools, such as band saws, are used to cut the sheet metal. Band saws have special hardened blades and are capable of feeding the sheet metal to ensure even cutting.

Chops saws are also used in sheet metal fabrication. Chop saws are similar to miter saws, but they have an abrasive disk specifically made for cutting sheet metal. Cutting torches are also used in sheet metal fabrication. Cutting torches are cable of cutting large sections of sheet metal with very little effort.

Sheet metal fabrication also involves the use of hydraulic breaks. With hydraulic breaks, sheet metal fabrication is simplified, as they help create bends at predetermined angles. Rolling machines are also used in sheet metal fabrication to form steel into round sections.

Another main focus of sheet metal fabrication is welding. After the sheet metal parts are formed, they are assembled and tack welded into place. Various welding techniques can be used in sheet metal fabrication to avoid warping or other visual defects. These include using a stout fixture, welding in a staggered manner, covering the metal with sand during the cooling process, and special straightening processes.

Straightening warped steel during sheet metal fabrication is accomplished with an Oxy-acetylene torch. With straightening, heat is applied to the metal in a slow, linear fashion. Using this method, a highly skilled welder can remove even significant warpage.

To finish the sheet metal fabrication process, the metal is usually sand blasted, then primed and painted. Then, the finishing touches are placed according to the customers specifications, and the piece is inspected and shipped.