Basic Raw Materials Used in Metal Fabrication Processes

Metal fabrication involves many different processes including cutting and forming for creating metal parts, components and machinery. Some of the common techniques of fabrication include broaching, honing, grinding and welding. Metal fabricators provide metal fabrication services for different industries like automotive, electrical, and food and beverage. They use different types of raw materials to produce many fabrication parts and components for an array of uses. But, before starting any metal fabrication process, you should understand the types of raw materials used and choose the appropriate one for your unique needs.

Here, we will discuss the different types of raw materials used in metal fabrication:-

1. Casting Raw Materials

Casting is a fabrication process in which liquid metal is put into moulds and allowed to cool down to get the desired shape. It is considered an ideal process for applications that require complex geometries. Raw materials utilized in this process include molten metal as well as concrete; epoxies and clay are also used. Some of the common metals used in casting include:

• Steel
• Aluminum
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Silver
• Gold
• Stainless steel
• Copper

2. Formed and Expanded Metal Raw Materials

In this process, stock metal sheeting is sheared in a press to create diamond-shaped holes confined by interlined strands of metals. It results in making expanded metal which is ideal for outdoor furniture, screen doors, fencing and various architectural details. Expanded metal raw materials are available in different standards of thickness and grating size.

3. Types of Hardware Raw Materials

When it comes to fabrication, the hardware is defined as standardized parts or fittings which are used for producing strong, functional and easy to fabricate products. Metal fabrication hardware comes in numerous categories and includes basic raw materials like:-

• Chains
• Locks
• Keys
• Latches
• Handles
• Wires

4. Types of Sectional Metals

Sectional metals are composed of steel that comes in different types of standardized shapes. These metals are extensively used in engineering and construction industries. Some of the popular sectional metals include I-Beam, Z-shape, Hollow structural section (HSS), rod and Bar.

5. Flat Metal Raw Material

Flat metal is rolled and pressed into very thin and flat pieces. The thickness of sheet metal can be less than a millimeter to several centimeters and is measured in gauges. Flat metal raw materials are divided into three categories:-

• Sheet metal- This common type of metal comes with a typical thickness of less than 6 mm
• Plate metal - It is thicker than 0.25 inches
• Foil or leaf metal- this is the thinnest variety of flat metal

6. Welding Wire Raw Materials

Welding wire contains soldered metals that can be formed into a thin and circular rod. These raw materials are used in the welding process and help in bonding the two or more metal pieces together. Welding wire comes in different thicknesses and metal types. It is used for customization during the welding process.

Using standardized raw materials for fabrication processes has its own benefits. These raw materials have a uniform shape and size and as a result, production time and cost per piece are reduced.

If you are also looking for Custom Wire Fabrication Services, sheet metal fabrication, or any other services for your fabrication process then you should do some research and then approach a trusted fabricator that can provide you the highest quality services.

Expert Metal Specialists With over 50 years of experience we’ll ensure you always get the best guidance. Quality workmanship, client relationships, and reliability are the basis of our business and form a philosophy that we are extremely proud of.