The sheet metal industry is a vital one, that not only contributes to the economy but sustains and contributes to countless other industries. Sheet metal manufacturing itself is a complex trade carried out by trained and knowledgeable professionals. There are a great many terms surrounding this industry, and these terms can be complicated and multifaceted. This is why we have decided to further expand our sheet metal glossary. The following terms are all connected to the sheet metal industry as well as the manufacturing processes that relate to it. Read on to discover something new about sheet metal or brush up on your existing knowledge and learn where to go for sheet metal machinery repair.

sheet metal machinery

#1: Sheet Metal Manufacturing

Let’s start with a broad definition of what sheet metal manufacturing, or fabrication, actually is. The term is used to refer to the process of creating metal structures from raw material – sheet metal. There are three general categories of processes: cutting, bending, and assembling.

#2: Sheet Metal

This is metal that is formed into flat and thin pieces, which are then able to be changed, through cutting, bending, and assembly, into differing shapes.

#3: Notching

Notching is a process that is used on sheet metal and falls under the category of cutting. It is done through the use of a punch press which selectively cuts away the excess or unwanted metal. There are different types of notching, including tube notching, end notching, and side notching. Tube notching is generally carried out in order prior to joining tubes in a tee joint, or another similar joint. One, or both of the tubes may be notched before assembly is performed through the use of a weld. End notching performs this process on the end of a tube, and side notching does so to the side of a tube, usually creating a vee-notch.

#4: Bending

Bending can be defined as the process of forming sheet metal into a desired shape. This fabrication process changes the geometric shape of piece of metal, without the need for cutting, for instance. It means that no material is taken away from the original workpiece, so the volume is not affected.

#5: Curling

Curling is a sheet metal fabricating process which essentially forms the edges of a workpiece into a hollow ring. A curling die is used to complete this operation, which is often carried out to get rid of any sharp edges in the metal piece.

#6: Rolling

This sheet metal process is also used to reduce the thickness of a workpiece or to achieve a uniform thickness. The workpiece is passed through a pair of rolls (though there can be more than one pair) to essentially flatten it evenly. There are three categories of rolling processes: hot rolling, cold rolling, and warm rolling. The general process of rolling sheet metal is similar to what happens when you roll out dough when baking bread, or cookies.

#7: Ironing

Another sheet metal manufacturing process is characterised by achieving a uniform thickness on a particular workpiece. Just as with the bending process, the workpiece retains its volume, as when the metal is thinned, it actually lengthens.

#8: Deep Drawing

Deep drawing is a sheet metal process that is often used in combination with ironing processes, as both ironing and deep drawing are frequently used in the manufacturing of structures that are cup or box-like. These products often include items like pots and pans and aluminium cans. Performed with a punch and die, the process involves a sheet metal blank that is drawn into a die by the mechanical action of a punch.

#9: Perforating

The process of perforating sheet metal is a type of cutting process which punches holes into a flat workpiece. The holes are small and punched close together in formation and the perforated metal is then used for a variety of applications in both industrial and commercial settings.

#10: Shearing

Shearing is an operation which cuts a workpiece in a straight line. This is achieved by placing the sheet metal piece between two dies and punching it at the other end, which produces the cut.

Do You Need Sheet Metal Machinery Repair?

Here at ACRA Machinery, we are experts in the sheet metal industry, and we are aware of the critical importance of machinery repair and maintenance. These elements play a very important role in supporting and ensuring the safe operation of businesses in the sheet metal industry. Whether it’s your bandsaw, plasma cutter, or another machine that needs repair or maintenance, look no further than ACRA Machinery. Backed by 42 continuous years of experience, we are proud to offer you brilliant customer service, alongside professional expertise.

So, if you’re in need of sheet metal machinery repair, maintenance, or sales, we are here to help. Call us at 03 9794 6675, or fill out our online contact form and we will be happy to assist you.