Sheet metal fabrication involves the manipulation of metal materials into flat sheets. With uses that range from construction to industrial manufacturing, knowledge of the process can be very valuable. That’s why the experts at Coulee Refrigeration Inc. of Sparta, WI, offer their services and guidance. To educate you on the process, this sheet metal shop has compiled the following list of common techniques.

Sheet Metal Shop Shares 3 Popular Sheet Metal Fabrication Techniques

Shrinking

Metal can be shrunken with a variety of methods, including tucking or the use of heat. Tucking occurs when metal is bunched together, such as by forcing it through a crevice. This effectively causes the flat piece of metal to become smaller. Heat shrinking involves the application of extreme heat to an overstretched area. As the area heats up, it expands, and as it cools, it contracts and shrinks.

Bending

Bending is often used to prepare metal for further processing, as it leads to the formation of stronger materials than other techniques. Perhaps the most common method for this process is known as form bending. This occurs when an individual leverages metal over the edge of another object and bends it. Clean and precise bends, however, require a metal brake—a flat bar that clamps onto the metal and lifts it.

Cutting

Cutting may be used when the metal material needs to be a precise shape or size—and it’s important to note that almost every fabrication project requires some amount of cutting. This can be done with hand shears or power shears. Plasma cutting is used for more even precise, quick cuts.

When you need sheet metal fabrication, turn to the experts at Coulee Refrigeration Inc. This locally owned sheet metal shop will work with you to create the metals and materials you truly need. To learn more about their services, such as system design and commercial refrigeration, reach out by calling (608) 269-0403. You can also find more information on the website.