Thanks to advanced production and quick turnaround times from metal fabrication companies, sheet metal has become a more popular material in construction. According to the master metalworkers at Tri-State Fabricators, in Cincinnati, OH, sheet metal has a wide realm of possibilities, as it is cost-effective to produce, durable, and versatile in its application. What type of sheet metal is best?

To help answer that question, this Ohio-based metal fabrication company breaks down some of the most common types of sheet metal and their applications:

• Hot Rolled Steel: If having a cost-friendly sturdy flat sheet of metal is more important to you than the finished look, hot rolled steel is a solid option. It is formed by placing steel through hot rollers that reach temps up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit. While easy and quick to produce, it often has surface imperfections. It is typically used to achieve thicknesses between 1/16 and 5/16 of an inch.
• Cold Rolled Steel: When surface finish is important to your sheet metal project, choose cold rolled steel. This goes through the same process as hot rolled steel but is also rinsed with acid and heat treated to produce a thin, smooth sheet. It is typically more durable than hot rolled steel but still easy to work with.
• Mild Steel: This is a type of cold rolled steel that is designed to have less carbon than other forms of sheet metal. Its chemical makeup is ideal for welding and is commonly used in auto body construction.   
• Copper: Copper sheet metal has several properties that make it a common choice for jewelry making. However, it is most commonly used to create parts for electronics, as copper is a conductive metal.   
• Aluminum: As a material that is highly malleable, aluminum sheet metal is favored by those manufacturing jewelry or parts for appliances and electronics. Compared to other metals, it very anti-corrosive.

Whether you’re working with steel, aluminum, copper, or a blend of metals, it’s essential to make sure you have access to consistent, high-quality results. For assistance in choosing the best sheet metal for your job, contact the steel fabrication pros at Tri-State Fabricators by calling (513) 752-5005. You can also visit their website to learn more about their comprehensive services, including laser cutting and powder coating.