20 Aug A Beginner’s Guide to Four Metal Fabrication Processes
New to metalwork? This quick primer explains four core processes you’ll encounter on most shop floors. Together they turn flat stock into durable parts and assemblies. The focus is sheet metal fabrication, where speed, accuracy and finish define cost and performance.
Bending
Press brakes fold profiles along programmed lines. Allow for an inside radius that suits the alloy and gauge, and keep holes or slots clear of bend zones to prevent distortion. For deep features, progressive forming avoids cracking and springback. Accurate bend data shortens setup and keeps repeat runs consistent.
Joining
Once parts fit, they are joined. Spot and MIG welding deliver strong seams quickly, while TIG excels on thin aluminium and visible work. Designers should specify access for a torch, allow fixtures to locate parts positively and select finishes that survive heat. Rivets and clinching suits coated steels and mixed materials.
To learn about sheet metal fabrication, you can contact a specialist such as https://dkmsheetmetal.co.uk/.
Cutting
Cutting creates the blank. Traditional guillotines and punch presses remain common, yet laser and waterjet systems now dominate for tight tolerances and clean edges. Good practice is to match method to material and thickness, nest parts efficiently to reduce waste and add lead-ins or tabs so pieces release safely.
Finishing
Edges are deburred and surfaces cleaned and then coated or anodised for corrosion protection. Dimensional checks, FAIs and simple gauges capture variation early.
Start small, prototype, and ask the shop for DFM feedback. Clear drawings, tolerances and material callouts keep prices stable and lead times short.