Common Sheet Metal Forming Methods Used By Australian Fabricators

Sheet metal forming is a pivotal process in the fabrication manufacturing sector in Australia today. From aircraft parts to car bodywork, as well as things like outdoor play equipment, building materials and much else besides, a very wide array of goods are produced all over the country using these techniques. Find out more about the basics of sheet metal fabrication methods by reading on.

Bending

To begin with, one of the most widely used sheet metal forming processes that fabricators use all over the world is bending. This basic sheet metal fabrication technique involves altering the shape of the workpiece without changing its volumetric properties, unlike cutting, for instance. This method can be utilised to create V-shapes, U-formations or channels in sections of sheet metal along a straight line. Bending is an efficient method suitable for both low and high volumes that offers value for money.

Drawing

Pulling a sheet of metal into a die to create a third dimension is known as drawing. This method is typically used for creating more complex components, such as those needed in the automotive sector. Drawing is also used to form kitchen sinks from sheet metal, as another common example. The advantage of drawing in sheet metal fabrication is its versatility. After all, it produces a variety of shapes and sizes that, crucially, will meet specific manufacturing specifications.

Stretch Forming

Popular for the production of parts for aircraft parts, stretch forming is a forming process in which sheet metal is stretched while being simultaneously bent over a die. This means it can be used to create highly contoured parts precisely. It is often used for metallic architectural features due to the smooth finishes it typically produces.

Roll Forming

A continuous bending operation, roll forming involves taking a long strip of metal and passing it through sets of rolls, or stands. Each is set to form an incremental part of the desired bend until the cross-section profile that has been designed has been obtained. Typically, this method would be used by fabricators to create long parts with constant cross-sections. It means a high level of productivity can be maintained at a relatively low cost.

Pressing

Also known as stamping, pressing is a sheet metal fabrication process that involves placing the workpiece into a stamping press where a tool and die surface force the metal into the desired three-dimensional shape under pressure. Stamping is often used by fabricators for high-volume production work. It offers consistent and highly precise results. Therefore, it is a preferred choice for fabricating a variety of products from aerospace components to spare parts for domestic appliances.


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