Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Sheet Metal

Introduction:

Selecting the right sheet metal for a project is a crucial step in ensuring its success. The choice of material can impact the strength, durability, and overall performance of the finished product. In this guide, we will delve into the factors to consider when choosing sheet metal for your project.

You can find more information on our web, so please take a look.

History of Sheet Metal:

Sheet metal has a rich history that dates back centuries. From the earliest handcrafted pieces to the sophisticated industrial manufacturing processes of today, the evolution of sheet metal has been nothing short of remarkable. Various materials have been used over the years, each offering unique properties and benefits.

Factors to Consider:

1. Thickness of the sheet metal: The thickness of the sheet metal plays a significant role in its strength and durability. Thicker sheets are more robust and suitable for heavy-duty applications, while thinner sheets are more flexible and lightweight.
2. Strength and durability requirements: Consider the specific strength and durability requirements of your project to determine the suitable sheet metal material. Different metals offer varying levels of tensile strength and resistance to wear and tear.
3. Corrosion resistance: Corrosion can significantly impact the lifespan of sheet metal components, especially when exposed to harsh environments. Choosing a material with excellent corrosion resistance can ensure the longevity of your project.
4. Formability and flexibility: Some projects require sheet metal that can be easily formed and shaped to meet intricate design specifications. Consider the formability and flexibility of different materials to ensure they meet your project requirements.
5. Cost considerations: Budget constraints are always a factor in project decisions. Consider the cost of the sheet metal material, as well as the fabrication and installation processes, to stay within budget without compromising on quality.

Types of Sheet Metal:

1. Stainless steel: Known for its superior corrosion resistance and strength, stainless steel is a popular choice for a wide range of applications, including food processing equipment, automotive parts, and architectural elements.
2. Aluminum: Lightweight and versatile, aluminum sheet metal is commonly used in aerospace, automotive, and construction industries. It offers excellent formability and is resistant to corrosion.
3. Carbon steel: Carbon steel is known for its high tensile strength and affordability. It is commonly used in structural applications, industrial machinery, and welded components.
4. Carbon steel: Carbon steel is known for its high tensile strength and affordability. It is commonly used in structural applications, industrial machinery, and welded components.
5. Copper: Copper is a highly conductive metal with excellent durability and aesthetic appeal. It is often used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and architectural accents.

Specialty Sheet Metal Options:

1. High-strength alloys: High-strength alloys, such as stainless steel grade 316 and aluminum alloy , offer superior strength and durability for demanding applications, such as aerospace and defense.
2. Titanium: Titanium is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. It is commonly used in medical implants, aerospace components, and marine applications.
3. Magnesium: Magnesium is a lightweight metal with excellent machinability and vibration damping properties. It is used in automotive parts, electronics housings, and aerospace components.
4. Nickel alloys: Nickel alloys are known for their exceptional heat and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for high-temperature applications, such as gas turbines, chemical processing equipment, and marine components.

Manufacturing Processes:

1. Hot rolling: Hot rolling involves heating the metal to high temperatures and passing it through rollers to achieve the desired thickness and shape. It is commonly used for producing thick sheets of metal.
2. Cold rolling: Cold rolling uses a series of rollers to compress the metal at room temperature, resulting in a smoother surface finish and precise thickness control. It is suitable for producing thin sheets of metal.
3. Forming and bending: Forming and bending processes involve shaping the sheet metal into various configurations, such as cylinders, cones, and angles, to meet specific design requirements.
4. Stamping and punching: Stamping and punching are used to create intricate shapes and patterns on sheet metal by applying pressure with dies and punches. These processes are commonly used in the automotive and electronics industries.

Surface Finishes:

1. Polished finishes: Polishing the sheet metal surface creates a smooth, reflective finish that enhances the appearance and corrosion resistance of the material. It is commonly used in architectural elements and decorative components.
2. Painted coatings: Applying paint coatings to sheet metal can provide protection against corrosion, UV damage, and wear. Different types of paints, such as epoxy, polyester, and polyurethane, offer varying levels of durability and color options.
3. Anodizing: Anodizing involves creating a protective oxide layer on the surface of aluminum to enhance its corrosion resistance and durability. Anodized aluminum is commonly used in architectural cladding, signage, and consumer electronics.
4. Galvanization: Galvanizing involves coating steel with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion. The galvanized layer acts as a sacrificial barrier, preventing rust and extending the lifespan of the steel component.

Applications of Sheet Metal:

1. Automotive industry: Sheet metal components are used in vehicle bodies, chassis, and engine parts to improve structural integrity, safety, and performance. Advanced forming techniques, such as hydroforming and laser cutting, are commonly employed in automotive manufacturing.
2. Construction and architecture: Sheet metal is used in construction projects for roofing, cladding, gutters, and structural support. Architectural elements, such as facades, canopies, and staircases, showcase the versatility and aesthetic appeal of sheet metal.
3. Aerospace industry: Aerospace components require lightweight materials with high strength and durability properties to withstand extreme conditions. Sheet metal alloys, such as titanium and aluminum, are commonly used in aircraft structures, engine components, and interior fittings.
4. HVAC systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems rely on sheet metal ductwork to distribute air throughout buildings efficiently. Properly designed and fabricated ducts ensure optimal airflow, temperature control, and energy efficiency.
5. Electronics manufacturing: Sheet metal enclosures and housings are essential components in electronic devices, providing protection, heat dissipation, and electromagnetic shielding. Precision fabrication techniques, such as laser cutting and CNC machining, are crucial in electronic manufacturing.

Choosing the Right Supplier:

Selecting a reliable sheet metal supplier is critical to the success of your project. Consider the following factors when choosing a supplier:

1.  Researching and vetting potential suppliers: Gather information on potential suppliers, such as their experience, capabilities, certifications, and track record of delivering quality products. Visit their facilities, if possible, to assess their equipment, processes, and quality control measures.
2. Obtaining quotes and samples: Request quotes and samples from multiple suppliers to compare pricing, lead times, and material quality. Evaluate the samples for accuracy, finish quality, and adherence to specifications before making a decision.
3.  Evaluating customer reviews and testimonials: Check online reviews, customer testimonials, and references to gauge the reputation and reliability of potential suppliers. Look for feedback on communication, responsiveness, and problem-solving abilities.

Tips for Successful Sheet Metal Projects:

Follow these tips to ensure a successful sheet metal project:

1. Proper planning and design considerations: Consult with designers, engineers, and fabricators early in the project to discuss material selection, design constraints, and manufacturing processes. Consider factors such as tolerances, geometric complexity, and assembly requirements to optimize the project outcome.
2. Communication with suppliers and fabricators: Maintain open communication with your sheet metal supplier and fabricator throughout the project to address any issues, changes, or concerns promptly. Collaborate on design modifications, material substitutions, and production schedules to meet project deadlines.
3. Quality control and testing procedures: Implement quality control measures, such as dimensional inspections, material testing, and surface finish evaluations, to ensure the sheet metal meets specifications and quality standards. Conduct regular inspections during fabrication and assembly to identify and resolve any defects or deviations.
4. Safety precautions during fabrication and installation: Adhere to safety guidelines, such as wearing protective gear, using proper equipment, and following best practices, during sheet metal fabrication and installation. Educate personnel on safe handling procedures, material hazards, and emergency protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.

Case Studies:

Explore real-world examples of successful sheet metal projects and the lessons learned from past mistakes to improve future endeavors:

1. Automotive Body Panels: A case study on the development of lightweight, high-strength aluminum body panels for electric vehicles, showcasing the benefits of material selection, design optimization, and advanced manufacturing techniques.
2. Architectural Façade: An analysis of a complex architectural façade project that utilized stainless steel sheet metal cladding to create a visually striking and durable building envelope. Lessons learned include collaboration with architects, structural engineers, and fabricators to achieve design intent and performance objectives.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, choosing the perfect sheet metal for your project requires careful consideration of various factors, such as material properties, manufacturing processes, surface finishes, and applications. By understanding the importance of material selection, conducting thorough research, and collaborating with experienced suppliers and fabricators, you can ensure the success of your sheet metal project. Apply the knowledge gained from this guide to future projects to unlock the full potential of sheet metal in your designs and innovations.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Not all sheet metal parts are created equal, and the most important factor in the success of a sheet metal part is the material it&#;s made from.

The type of metal a sheet metal part is made from must be chosen carefully to ensure that the part meets fabrication requirements during manufacture and performance requirements in its final application. Picking the wrong material can cause part or whole product failure, low yields, high costs, poor performance or a number of safety issues.

Imagine a safety critical structural part failing due to improper material selection, and you have an idea of one potential concern. If you imagine products having to be recalled, at a high cost, due to in-use failure you have an idea of another potential concern.

The process of selecting the material for a sheet metal part can be complex because of the sheer number of factors involved. The issue is something that requires careful consideration.

The most important questions to answer when selecting a material for sheet metal parts are:

1. What requirements will a sheet metal part need to meet in application?
2. What types of sheet metal are available?
3. What fabrication and manufacturing processes are possible with different sheet metals?

Fig. 1: Sheet Metal Parts at Komacut

In this guide, we'll look at the most common sheet metal materials used and go over the factors that need to be considered when choosing the right material.

Standard Sheet Metal Materials

There are many types of sheet metal, and each type has its benefits and drawbacks that must be considered when selecting a material for a project. The different properties different materials have make them suitable for different applications.

We will explore the types of sheet metal materials used at Komaspec and give examples of real-life uses for each of them.

Mild or Low Carbon Steel

Mild steel is by far the most commonly used material for sheet metal fabrication. The relative strength it has, combined with the ease of fabrication and relatively low cost compared to stainless steel or aluminum, means that it&#;s suitable in plenty of applications. These steels can be used to create a wide variety of custom steel parts. Automotive body panels, furniture and structural parts are common examples of mild steel in application.

Mild Steel Pros

• Inexpensive
• Easy to work with
• High weldability
• Versatile
• Strong for its weight
• Can support a variety of surface finishes

Mild Steel Cons

• Not suitable for high-gloss polishing
• Needs protection from rust (additional processing and cost)
• Less strong and durable than other materials
• Less heat resistant than other materials

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an alloy containing chromium, which provides good corrosion resistance and improved strength. Stainless steel is great in outdoor applications or other applications in which parts might be exposed to rust or corrosive chemicals. It&#;s also useful in applications that need more hardness than mild steel. As well as this, it is non-magnetic and non-sparking, making it ideal for medical instruments.

Fig. 2: Mill Finish &#; Stainless Steel

 

Stainless Steel Pros

• Easy to work with
• Suitable for high-gloss polishing
• Durable
• Easy to clean and sterilize
• High levels of built-in corrosion resistance

Stainless Steel Cons

• More expensive than mild steel (average of three to five times the cost, depending on the grade of stainless steel)
• Welding can be more cumbersome (requires specialized equipment)
• It cannot be used in applications where magnetism is needed

Galvanized Steel

When steel is galvanized, a layer of zinc is bonded to its surface. This method serves as a cost-effective way to build a high level of corrosion resistance into the material. In turn, this reduces the potential for rusting prior to fabrication and the need for additional surface finishing. Galvanized steel is perfect for things like fencing and other outdoor frameworks that are exposed to the weather.

Fig. 3: Cold Galvanized Steel

 

Galvanized Steel Pros

• Easy to manufacture and maintain
• Cost-effective corrosion protection
• Durable

Galvanized Steel Cons

• Joints or cuts can corrode over time where the processing (laser cuts or bending in the case of sheet metal fabrication) has compromised the galvanized protective layer.
• Galvanized steel can be expensive. It is significantly more expensive than mild steel, for example.

Aluminum

Aluminum has many wonderful qualities. Its primary qualities are its high level of resistance to rust and its reduced weight, being one-third of the weight of steel. It is less strong than other materials, but this can sometimes be overcome through design. In some applications, aluminum can also be designed to be equally as strong as steel.

Because of its lack of strength, aluminum may often not be able to handle the same stresses as steel. As such, you might want to contact our representatives at Komaspec to help you decide if aluminum is suitable for your intended use or not.

Fig. 4: Aluminum RAL

 

Aluminum Pros

• High strength to weight ratio (ideal for applications requiring weight reduction)
• Truly corrosion resistant
• Durable
• Aesthetically attractive with only minor polishing

Aluminum Cons

• More expensive than carbon steels
• Significantly lower tensile and yield strength than steel
• Can require additional hardening processes after initial manufacturing stage

Spring Steel

Spring steel is a very resilient material containing manganese and high concentrations of carbon. It is designed to bend or flex under load and to return to its original shape when the load is removed. This makes it an excellent choice for making latching mechanisms, drive belts and, of course, springs.

Spring Steel Pros

• High yield strength
• High tensile and fatigue strength
• Easily formed and shaped

Spring Steel Cons

• Potential to lose shape over time
• Prone to rust and corrosion
• Limited heat resistance

For more info about each of the sheet metal materials Komaspec offers, including specific physical properties and surface finishing options, you can refer to the sheet metal material selection on our website.

Order and track sheet metal components online through Komaspec's on-demand sheet metal fabrication platform.

 

Visit Komacut.com

 

Sheet Metal Material Type and Manufacturing Costs

The costs that come with sheet metal parts fabrication begin with the cost of the raw material. Costlier materials, such as aluminum, stainless steel, and copper, can provide superior performance compared to cheaper materials, such as mild steel and galvanized steel. Still, they obviously come with a higher price tag.

In some cases, a cheaper metal will be suitable for a job and will provide adequate performance at a lower cost. For example, if aluminum is too expensive for a part that requires light weight and corrosion resistance, galvanized steel might be a better choice.

Ultimately, choosing the right material will mean weighing up performance requirements and the cost constraints of a project.

The table below shows a rough outline of how much each material costs. We can see that, while aluminum is twice as expensive as steel per kg, stainless steel is nearly five times more costly. Titanium is much more expensive again and is used sparingly in products such as jet engines, where the extra strength it provides is crucial.

Fig. 5: Material Cost Per Kg (USD)

 

The Difficulty in Comparing Material Costs

When considering which sheet metal material to buy for a project based on cost, there&#;s more to consider than just the price of a material per kg. You have to weigh material cost per kg against the design and performance goals of the project. Not all sheet metal is created equal in strength, weight, and appearance.

Stainless steel is stronger by weight than aluminum, for example, meaning that designs can be adapted. Thinner stainless steel can be used for a tank or vessel than it can for an aluminum one, for example.

Cost Increase of Custom Steel Parts

Custom design requirements often impact the price of steel sheet metal parts. This is because custom designs often require more intricate processes and skills to manufacture, increasing the cost of labor and materials.

Custom metal parts fabrication often also requires additional processes, such as welding, cutting, and bending, which can also increase the cost of the parts. They may require the use of specialized tools and equipment to construct correctly as well.

Mechanical Factors Important to Sheet Metal Material Selection

Understanding the mechanical properties different sheet metals have and the effect these properties have in application is critical to selecting the right material. There are many physical qualities inherent in different metals, and each one can be used to serve a different purpose.

Some of the most essential mechanical factors to consider in the material selection process include:

• Strength
• Ductility
• Corrosion resistance
• Ease of manufacture

Strength of Sheet Metal Parts

Material strength is often the most widely used metric in determining material suitability. It is measured according to how much load a material can withstand before it bends out of its original shape. This bending is also known as plastic deformation.

There are two ways of looking at the strength of a material when it comes to choosing one for manufacture. Considering each separately may give a different outcome in decision making.

Strength By Cost

This simply considers how strong a material is in respect to how much it costs. Titanium is an example of a material with a high cost to strength ratio, and mild steel is an example of the opposite.

For metal enclosures or tanks that require large amounts of high strength material at low cost, for example, low-carbon (mild) steel would generally be considered the ideal material.

Strength By Weight

This considers how strong a material is in relation to its mass (or weight). Gaining high strength with lightweight materials is important in certain applications. In airplanes, for example, reducing weight is essential, and aluminum is often a good choice.

Strength to weight properties are also assessed by looking at specific strength.

Interestingly, in a comparison of aluminum, carbon steel, and stainless steel, the aluminum alloy has the highest specific strength (ASM Material Data Sheet), despite having the lowest tensile strength.

Fig. 6: Tensile Strength vs. Specific Strength

 

Ductility

Also referred to as formability, this is the ability of a material to be stretched without cracking or breaking. If a material is highly ductile, it will withstand a large amount of stretching. Stretching commonly occurs in manufacture when a tight radius is formed during a metal stamping or folding process.

Fig. 7: Sheet Metal Materials at Komaspec

A simple way to visualize ductility is to imagine a material acting as a spring - the greater the elasticity of a material, the better its ductility. One thing to note is that this flexibility can be increased using a metal-forming process called annealing.

Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion occurs when a metal deteriorates as a result of the action of air, moisture or a chemical. The most common form is rust, which happens when iron in a material reacts with the oxygen and moisture in its surroundings. Good corrosion resistance (Metals - Corrosion Resistance to Aggressive Fluids) is a crucial factor in sheet metal selection because corrosion can weaken steel in a surprisingly short period of time if the conditions are right.

Fig. 8: Corrosion From Aggressive Fluids

 

The two main factors that help reduce corrosion are:

1. Choosing a material that will not be prone to corrosion in the application the part will have
2. Employing a secondary finishing process such as painting or galvanizing

What is the Best Material for Corrosion Resistance?

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel contains chromium, which forms a thin film of chromium oxide on its surface, protecting it from corrosion. Stainless steel can become discolored, or it can rust if there is long term exposure to the elements. It is particularly vulnerable to corrosion where there are high salt concentrations. However, the resistance is greatly superior to mild steels.

Bimetal corrosion is a risk with stainless steel and must be considered when mating with other parts or fasteners.

Aluminum

A lightweight alternative to steel, aluminum is a naturally non-reactive metal that will not corrode in the presence of air or water.

Aluminum can be somewhat vulnerable to corrosion when in contact with concrete, however, and there&#;s also a risk of bimetal corrosion. Both of these problems can be overcome through anodizing or painting.

Modified Mild Steel

Using galvanized mild steel could be a great alternative if cost is a factor. The Zinc coating gives a layer of protection at lower cost. Be aware, however, that when galvanized mild steel sheets are cut, the edges are exposed and will be vulnerable to rust.

Mild Steels

Mild carbon steels without secondary finishing will rust rapidly in the presence of moisture or salt. In fact, unprotected steel sheets can begin to rust even before fabrication, which often leads to the need for deburring or chemical treatment to remove rust before surface finishing.

Rust can be so severe, in some cases, that it impacts the final part appearance even after painting. Parts can appear &#;mottled&#; or like they have a blotched surface when this happens.

Material Type and Manufacturability

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Sheet metal part fabrication processes involve procedures such as cutting, bending, and joining sheets of metal. These procedures create different configurations of sheet metal to create custom steel parts. Each material has its own specific advantages and disadvantages in the fabrication process that need to be considered.

Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is a precise and reliable method for cutting all different types of metal. This method is a great option in many different situations. However, it&#;s particularly useful where speed and precision are important, such as in the automotive industry. Lasers are also useful for cutting thicker materials, for making complex cut-outs and for making very clean cuts.

Shiny metals, such as aluminum and copper, are more difficult to cut, although it is still possible to cut these materials with a laser. The minimum / maximum thickness which can be cut, however, varies depending on the material type, which in the case of very thick or very thin material, may limit potential choices.

Bending

There are two factors that have an impact on bendability:

1. Material Choice

Some materials can be bended more easily than others and with more success in application. It&#;s worth noting, however, that even within the same material, there can be differences in bendability between different grades. If ductility is important, for example, the series aluminum is best avoided as the hardness of the material can result in micro-cracks and part failure duing bending.

Generally speaking, aluminum is commonly considered a good choice where sheet metal bending is required.

1. Product Design

Designs with tight bend radii and low tolerances will mean that a more bendable material is required. For more about bend design, read our article on sheet metal design guidelines. Very stiff materials (i.e. medium carbon or stainless steels) may require larger reliefs are larger bend radii vs mild steels and aluminum parts.

Fig. 9: Metal Bending at Komacut

Weldability

Welding is one of the most common methods for joining and manufacturing metal components. This process uses a high-powered and highly controlled electric arc to heat base metals to the point where they melt. They are then joined and solidify as almost one piece.

The weldability of sheet metal will depend on the type of filler metal used, the process used and the material makeup of the sheet.

Mild carbon steels are highly weldable with a variety of processes, are generally finished with secondary processes which help to resolve discoloration of the base material.  Aluminum requires TIG welding, which can be more time and cost intensive than MIG, and the material is more vulnerable to deformation and discoloration due to heating during the welding process. Stainless is also weldable, but requires TIG or special robotic welding equipment and may need passivation or secondary processes to hide discoloration from the welding process.

Fig. 10: Robotic Welding at Komacut

Material Type and Finishing Processes

Different materials have different properties when it comes to surface finishing. Not all materials are compatible with all surface finishing options, such as anodization being largely specific to aluminum, or the difficulty of electropolishing mild steel parts.

For which options are available for various sheet metal materials, please see the table below or explore in greater detail in our surface finishing article.

 

Finish Corrosion Resistance Coating Thickness Abrasion Resistance

Powder Coating

· Corrosion resistance depends on type of material used and pre-treatment process

· Surface must be pre-treated before powder coat or part will be at risk of corrosion and adhesion issues

· Chips or incomplete coverage adds to risk of corrosion

· Can range from 70 to 150μm

· Thicker than traditional liquid paint

· Improves appearance

· Various colors and textures available

· Heat cured finish

· Material composition and pre-treatment may have enhanced abrasion resistance

· Creates a hard finish that resists abrasion well

E-Coating

· Good corrosion resistance

· Provides physical and chemical barrier to corrosion

· Typically 12 to 30μm but can be more

· Often used to increase surface thickness

· Thickness of application is uniform

· Good durability

· Heat cured finish

· Good longevity

Zinc Plating

· Provides physical barrier to corrosion

· Acts as a sacrificial anode to prevent corrosion

· Parts can sustain minor damage and remain corrosion resistant

· Can range from 5 to 25μm

· If use as an undercoat for other finishes, poor adhesion

· Best for detailed surfaces and not heavy-duty applications

· Very strong finish

· Highly durable to abrasion

Geomet

· Provides barrier resistance to corrosion

· Creates passivation effect on surface

· Between 5 to 7.6μm

· Can be used under a painted finish

· Mid abrasion resistance

· Electrically conductive finish

· Good resistance to chemicals, organics, heat, salt

Anodizing

· Good corrosion resistance

· Commonly used for saltwater or marine environments

· Ranges from 0.5 to 150μm

· Hard, wear resistant finish

· Often used for parts that come in frequent contact with other material

Passivation

· Good corrosion resistance through an inert, oxide layer

· The process removes free iron from the surface leaving a thin and transparent oxide film

· Does not change durability or abrasion resistance

Galvanized Dipped

· Provides barrier resistance to corrosion

· Acts as a sacrificial anode to prevent corrosion

· At more than 254μm the finish is prone to flaking

· Poor appearance

· Can adjust thickness of finish to accommodate needs

· Often used in harsh environments because of durability

· Good abrasion resistance

· Good durability and longevity

· Surface damage can result in corrosion

Table 1: Surface Finishing: Corrosion, Thickness, Abrasion

 

Finish Carbon Steel Stainless steel Aluminium Application Visual Requirements Thickness Corrosion resistance Mill Finish       Internal Parts or Parts with Subsequent Processing Low-Visual - - Antirust Oiling       Parts with Subsequent Processing Low-Visual - 24 Hours NSS Brushed       Indoor Med-Visual - - Anodized       Indoor / Outdoor High-Visual - - Mircro-Polishing       Indoor / Outdoor High-Visual - - Passivation       Indoor / Outdoor Med-Visual 0.5 to 15μm - Zinc Plating       Indoor / Outdoor Low-Visual 5 to 25μm 48 to 94 Hours NSS E-Coating       Indoor / Outdoor Low-Visual 5 to 25μm 96 Hours NSS Powder Coating       Indoor / Outdoor High-Visual 70 to 150μm 480- Hours

Table 2: Metal Finishing Guide

 

The application of the part often determines the finishing requirements. Some reasons for wanting an enhanced surface finish include:

• Aesthetics
• Hygiene
• Durability

Because these aspects are critical to quality for many applications, it&#;s important to think about these requirements when selecting a material.

Aesthetics

Polishing is a common technique used to create a high-quality look that&#;s pleasing to the eye. The process involves progressively removing all surface imperfections to give a metal part a shiny finish.

Fig. 11: Surface Finishing

 

Polishing for Sheet Metal Parts

• Copper
• Stainless steel
• Aluminum

Stainless steel can be brought to a mirror finish and is very durable; aluminum is less durable and can take longer to reach the same finish. It is not possible to create a durable polished surface on mild steel.

Hygienic Sheet Metal Parts

Sheet metal parts are often used in both the food industry and medical settings. The material chosen must be resistant to the build-up of bacteria and other contaminants.

Stainless steel, for example, is a popular choice for sheet metal products because it is non-porous and resistant to corrosion. This eliminates the need for potentially toxic paints and other coatings.

Additionally, stainless steel can be easily cleaned and sterilized using various chemical and thermal methods. This makes it an ideal choice for food-grade products and medical instrumentation.

Stainless steel 316, for example, is widely used for food service or medical equipment due to its excellent resistance to chemical cleaning agents, acids and other corrosion.

Durability for Sheet Metal Parts

Durability is the main factor that affects a material&#;s resilience to dents, scratches and bending. Also important in hygienic environments, the durability of a material affects how well it can withstand harsh environments without needing to be repaired or replaced.

Stainless steel is a great option if a part needs to resist scratching and be easy to repair. When scratched, it does not cause possible contamination with aluminum oxide. Aluminum, along with copper, will resist scratches and deformation very poorly.

Mild steel is another durable material, but the paints and coating needed should be considered as they can often lead to the same problems with contamination.

Material finishing requirements will help determine the best material choice for any particular part. For more about different types of finishing, read this guide.

The Implications of Selecting Improper Materials

Using the wrong material for sheet metal parts can have severe implications for product and/or part quality and performance levels. Different materials have unique properties that will affect the strength, durability and other characteristics of a metal part.

Using the wrong material could lead to failure in application. A part may lack strength, be vulnerable to corrosion or be unhygienic, for example. Similarly, a material that cannot be finished to the right requirements would be inappropriate as well. As well as a part not performing correctly, the failure of a part could lead to damage of an entire system.

Finally, using the wrong material could increase costs unnecessarily. Using stainless steel in an application where mild steel would suffice would add unnecessary costs, for example. Where fabrication requirements also don&#;t match material selection, fabrication could become difficult, which will add to costs as well.

Reach Out to Komaspec for Sheet Metal Fabrication Suggestions

Choosing the right material for sheet metal parts is a critical decision that should be taken carefully. All the factors mentioned in this article, including cost, strength, corrosion resistance and durability, must be considered to ensure a suitable material is chosen for the product in question.

With the right material, sheet metal parts can be manufactured to be more efficient, more robust and longer lasting.

It is important to consult with experienced professionals when selecting the right material, as they can provide valuable advice and guidance. For more information on what material is best for your sheet metal parts, get in touch with Komaspec for expert advice.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website processing sheet metal housing.