3 Types of Metal Fabrication Processes

What are the different types of metal fabrication processes?

1. Metal Stamping
2. Pipe Bending
3. Welding Assembly

To form metals into your desired appearance, different types of metal fabrication techniques are employed by manufacturers. Through cutting, folding, and shaping processes, suppliers can provide you with end products such as motorcycle body frames, fenders, gasoline tanks, bent pipes, and more. To know more about the methods used, continue reading!

Metal Stamping

To transform sheet metals into complicated shapes, a metal stamping press is used by manufacturers. This typically requires the use of die sections where metal is pressed on to form the end product. This technique is a high-speed process capable of delivering high volume yields according to a client’s needs.

Aside from stamping, press machines are also capable of casting, punching, cutting, and shaping metal. Listed below are the 2 types typically used by manufacturers:

• Mechanical Press: Mechanical flywheels can punch metal products with the use of a motor. Faster than a hydraulic press, these are appropriate for simple and shallow designs on metal.

• Hydraulic Press: With the use of hydraulic fluid, this type of press is typically used for complicated designs which a mechanical press can’t handle. Users can also customize the amount of pressure, stroke, and speed, which makes it appropriate for intricate products.

Pipe Bending

Aside from plumbing, pipes are vital in automotive, aerospace, construction, energy production, and more. To ensure that these will fit in tight spaces, factories, and vehicles, a process such as pipe bending is needed. This is used to make a variety of products, such as poles, handrails, ventilation components, and much more.

Before this method is done, the right type of material and bending machine used should be considered. Depending on your requirement, the centerline radius, outside diameter, and wall thickness are also adjusted. Techniques also differ according to the end product desired:

• Ram type bending: As the oldest and simplest method, this low-cost technique involves the use of a ram to press a pipe against two pivot blocks.

• Roll bending: To produce spiral shapes, a triangular pattern of rollers is positioned in a machine. One will move the pipe, while the others apply pressure to form the required angle.

• Compression bending: A pipe is fixed in place, while a roller compresses it against a bend die, which is typically used for creating end products with identical angles on each side.

• Rotary draw bending: For detailed products, a rotary draw bending machine clamps a pipe while a bend die draws it around to produce a smooth end result.

Welding Assembly

After metals are formed into their respective shapes, sometimes an additional process such as welding is needed. To join metals, the base materials are exposed to high heat causing them to melt. Before it cools, the two objects are fused together, forming a strong bond. To produce the heat, electricity or gas is used by welders.

Depending on the finish material desired, the welding techniques used may vary. This method is utilized in shipbuilding, automotive, construction industries, and mechanical industries. It can also be used in joining dissimilar metals.

Key Takeaway

Depending on a client’s requirements, one or more types of metal fabrication processes can be utilized by your manufacturer. Because high skill is needed to create detailed end products, choose a company with a long experience in the industry.

As a veteran manufacturer of fabricated metal parts, Roberts remains the prime choice for leading OEM Automotive and Motorcycle Assemblers in the Philippines. If you require our assistance in your business, don’t hesitate to send a message here.