With the right equipment, a skilled craftsman can turn raw metals into almost any shape imaginable—from the smallest screws to the largest airplane parts. Metal fabrication is the process of shaping these materials through a combination of cutting, grinding, lathing, and honing. While a metal fabricator can work with many types of metal, there are four that are used most commonly.

4 Materials Used in Metal Fabrication

Iron

Casting iron is one of the oldest forms of metal fabrication, often used to create pots, pans, and decorative railings. Instead of cutting the metal, the metal fabrication technician pours molten iron into a cast made of sand or clay. When the iron cools, it remains in the shape of the desired product.

Steel

Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon that is extremely strong and versatile. This material is used in everything from medical implements to construction girders. Adjusting the level of carbon and adding other elements emphasizes certain features of the metal, like strength or malleability, creating alloys perfect for a wide range of applications.

Copper

Although it may not be as strong as iron or steel, copper is one of the best electrical conductors available. The material is also particularly useful because it’s naturally resistant to corrosion. Due to these properties, copper components are often found in industrial machinery, marine applications, and aerospace equipment.

Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight, easy to work with, and also resistant to corrosion. High-grade aluminum is often used to make aircraft parts, but its tolerance for low temperatures also makes it ideal for refrigerators and cooling systems.

C & C Machine Inc has the specialized equipment and expertise to meet the demands of any project. Located in La Crosse, WI, they are the oldest and most trusted metal fabrication shop in the area. Their team of technicians have experience working with a wide range of materials and will handle every step from initial design to final installation. Visit their website for an overview of their metal fabrication services, follow their Twitter for more professional insight, and call (608) 784-4427 to discuss your project with a member of the team.