METAL FABRICATION PROCESS

 

Understanding the Metal Fabrication Process

The metal fabrication process involves drawing, measuring, cutting, refinishing, and quality checks to ensure that the final product meets the original design. There are hundreds of metal fabrication processes, including welding, laser cutting, CNC Machining, powder coating, and more. An experienced metal fabricator can recommend the right processes for your needs. Get in touch with our team for help planning your project today. 

Drawings & Designs

The first step is a detailed drawing that includes measurements and specifications for the part. The metal fabricator will use this drawing to select raw materials and the correct fabrication processes.

Metal Fabrication Techniques

Laser Cutting: Used for steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and other alloys. Allows for an extremely precise cut (tolerances of +/-.003″-.007″). Requires a vectorized drawing and design specifications. 

CNC Plate Cutting: Allows for highly accurate cutting of sheet metal or plates. At AP Precision Metals, we utilize fiber-laser, CNC press brake, or the turret punch technique to produce high volume orders. 

Welding: Welding is a metal fabrication process that utilizes heat, gas, and filler metal to fuse together two pieces of metal. There are three main types of welding: Gas Tungsten Arc (TIG), Gas Metal Arc (MIG), and Shielded Metal Arc (Stick). The fabricator will recommend a welding style based on the size and materials of the part. 

Powder Coating: Powder coating is an alternative metal finish to paint. It is usually more durable than paint, and provides an even finish. 

Quality control is an important part of the metal fabrication process. Choose a company that follows ISO 9001 standards for the best outcome. Finally, the parts are packed, labelled, and shipped to their final destination. 

What Industries Use Laser Cutting?

More industries than ever are utilizing laser cutting technology for projects with elevated precision and efficiency. At AP Precision, we work with robotics companies, electric engineers, architects, designers, engineers, biomedical, and more. Get your project started with a free quote from our team today.