Metal fabrication involves many different processes including cutting and
forming for creating metal parts, components and machinery. Some of the common
techniques of fabrication include broaching, honing, grinding and welding.
Metal fabricators provide metal fabrication services for different industries
like automotive, electrical, and food and beverage. They use different types of
raw materials to produce many fabrication parts and components for an array of
uses. But, before starting any metal fabrication process, you should understand
the types of raw materials used and choose the appropriate one for your unique needs.
Here, we will discuss the different types of raw materials used in metal
fabrication:-
1. Casting Raw Materials
Casting is a fabrication process in which liquid metal is put into moulds
and allowed to cool down to get the desired shape. It is considered an ideal
process for applications that require complex geometries. Raw materials
utilized in this process include molten metal as well as concrete; epoxies and
clay are also used. Some of the common metals used in casting include:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Silver
- Gold
- Stainless steel
- Copper
2.
Formed and Expanded Metal Raw Materials
In this process, stock metal sheeting is sheared in a press to create
diamond-shaped holes confined by interlined strands of metals. It results in
making expanded metal which is ideal for outdoor furniture, screen doors,
fencing and various architectural details. Expanded metal raw materials are
available in different standards of thickness and grating size.
3.
Types of Hardware Raw Materials
When it comes to fabrication, the hardware is defined as standardized
parts or fittings which are used for producing strong, functional and easy to
fabricate products. Metal fabrication hardware comes in numerous categories and
includes basic raw materials like:-
- Chains
- Locks
- Keys
- Latches
- Handles
- Wires
4.
Types of Sectional Metals
Sectional metals are composed of steel that comes in different types of
standardized shapes. These metals are extensively used in engineering and
construction industries. Some of the popular sectional metals include I-Beam,
Z-shape, Hollow structural section (HSS), rod and Bar.
5.
Flat Metal Raw Material
Flat metal is rolled and pressed into very thin and flat pieces. The
thickness of sheet metal can be less than a millimeter to several centimeters
and is measured in gauges. Flat metal raw materials are divided into three
categories:-
- Sheet metal- This common
type of metal comes with a typical thickness of less than 6 mm
- Plate metal - It is thicker
than 0.25 inches
- Foil or leaf metal- this is
the thinnest variety of flat metal
6.
Welding Wire Raw Materials
Welding wire contains soldered metals that can be formed into a thin and
circular rod. These raw materials are used in the welding process and help in
bonding the two or more metal pieces together. Welding wire comes in different
thicknesses and metal types. It is used for customization during the welding
process.
Using standardized raw materials for fabrication processes has its own
benefits. These raw materials have a uniform shape and size and as a result,
production time and cost per piece are reduced.
If you are also looking for Custom Wire Fabrication Services, sheet metal
fabrication, or any other services for your fabrication process then you should
do some research and then approach a trusted fabricator that can provide you the
highest quality services.