Top Materials Used By Machine Shops During Metal Fabrication

by | Jun 8, 2021 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining, Metal Fabrication

Metal Fabrication

Every time you do any routine task like driving or using electronic or medical appliances you are looking at the prime example of metal fabrication services.

The metal fabrication market is necessary for plenty of industries such as Aerospace, Construction, Energy, Mining, Ship Building and more. These industries require machining parts of various shapes and sizes that are possible via using certain materials.

On this page

  1. Qualities to look for in fabrication materials
  2. Common materials that are used in metal fabrication
  3. How to choose the right fabrication company?
  4. Why choose MDA for metal fabrication?

 

Qualities to look for in fabrication materials

Metal fabrication means making the product from scratch using raw materials. The material can depend on the type of product you require. Machine shop experts can fabricate multiple parts from different materials.

Here are some qualities to check before metal fabrication materials:

  • The material for metal fabrication needs to be durable.
  • The material needs to be cost-effective.
  • The finish of the product you can achieve.
  • The material should suit loose or tight tolerances.

A material can have an impact on the finished product. Choosing the right material takes research and knowing the right material is the first and foremost step. As it’s impossible to recommend any type of fabrication material. This article will explain the most common materials that are necessary for metal fabrication.

Common materials that are used in metal fabrication

Steel

Steel

Steel is the most widely used material used for metal fabrication. It’s known for its polished steel alloy silver mirror coating that is helpful during the manufacturing of machined parts.

The chromium present in steel helps the metal to have an amazing resistance against corrosion. The strength factor presented by steel makes it an ideal choice for surgical instruments. Steel is common for machine shops because it’s easier to work with.

Steel can bend easily, making it easier for welding and manufacturing CNC machined parts. There are various versatile options present in the steel. One of them is carbon steel, which has a high carbon content with a lower melting point. It helps to withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions making it ideal for CNC steel machining.

Industrial uses of steel

The industrial applications of steel as a material used in metal fabrication are as follows:

  • Buildings and infrastructure
  • Mechanical equipment
  • Automotive
  • Domestic applications
  • Electrical equipment

Pros of steel material for metal fabrication

  • Durability & quality
  • Design flexibility
  • Cost efficiency
  • Recyclability

 

Aluminum

Aluminum

Aluminum is mostly used for metal fabrication because it’s lightweight, which is necessary for industries that need lightweight machined parts. The aluminum parts are in demand in machine shops as they can be machined in a shorter time.

Aluminum, often used for various applications ranging from window frames to aircraft wing components, showcases the material’s versatility. CNC aluminum machining plays a crucial role in shaping this adaptable material for specific needs. It works well for workplace structures and is a popular alternative to steel. It’s rust-free and has strong thermal and electrical conductive properties. Finally, aluminum is a durable, lightweight, and versatile material with thermal properties.

Industrial uses of aluminum

The industrial applications of aluminum as a material used in metal fabrication as follows:

  • Consumer electronics
  • Power lines
  • Household and industrial appliances
  • Aircraft components
  • Window frames

Pros of aluminum material for metal fabrication

  • Lightweight
  • Corrosion resistance
  • Non-magnetic
  • Thermal efficiency

 

| Also Read: All About The Metal Machining & Its Benefits

 

Carbon Steel

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is the most common material used by metal shops and is the most common in the industry. It is the most versatile material, with applications ranging from construction to machinery.

This material is popular among fabricators because it is simple to work with and can be finished in a variety of ways. Carbon steel presents strength and works in harsh environments making it ideal for metal machining services. This steel has a lower melting point due to the higher carbon content. It’s also more resistant to bending and more malleable.

Industrial uses of carbon steel

The industrial applications of carbon steel as a material used in metal fabrication as follows:

  • Oil industry
  • Gas industry
  • Petrochemical sector

Pros of carbon steel material for metal fabrication

  • Efficiently Malleable
  • Lightweight
  • Easier to fabricate
  • Cost-effective

 

Copper

Copper

Copper is a common material in metal fabrication for applications that require a high level of conductivity. The material is corrosion resistant therefore being used in building components in the construction industry. Copper responds well to bending and can produce lovely results. Heating and cooling systems, transformers, switches, and telecommunications systems all use copper wiring because of the amazing conductivity offered by copper. Additionally, CNC copper machining enhances the precision and customization of copper components in various applications.

Industrial uses of copper

  • Electrical industry
  • Construction industry
  • Transport industry
  • Medical sector

Pros of copper material for metal fabrication

  • High electrical conductivity
  • Antibacterial properties making it ideal for fabrication
  • Ductile, soft, and malleable
  • Resistance to corrosion

How to choose the right metal fabrication company?

Choosing the right fabrication company increases the probability of getting quality materials. Without the proper guidance of the fabrication company, you face design and quality issues. You should hire a machine metal shop that possesses the following qualifications:

  • A team of engineers with years of experience who are eager to work with you and answer your questions.
  • Materials of the highest quality are available.
  • The company must offer prototypes, fabrication systems, and CNC machining.
  • An understanding of lean manufacturing practices and a focus on low-cost fabrication solutions.
  • A broad range of fabrication projects.
  • Assembly, short-run manufacturing, and shipping are all available services.
  • Customized solutions tailored to your specific product and objectives.

A full-service product fabrication company will assist you at every stage of the process by providing you with a comprehensive set of tools, and quality materials.

Why choose MDA for metal fabrication?

MDA uses the highest quality materials for the metal fabrication process. We help our clients to make the right decision by selecting the best materials for their industry. We are here to bring your designs to life.

Our metal shop support the clients from the design process to finishing and assembly. Here are some reasons to choose us:

All About The Metal Machining & Its Benefits

by | Mar 19, 2021 | CNC Machining, Metal Fabrication

Metal Machining & Its Benefits

The metal machining market is growing day by day and it has the potential to grow immensely. There has been a rapid change in the metal machining industry in the last decade, with machinists becoming more inclined toward the technical manufacturing of metal parts.

With metal machining parts being used in plenty of industries, it’s better to understand all about metal machining, how CNC metal machining works and its benefits. The article is suited for the machinist who is looking to manufacture metal machining parts.

What Do You Mean By CNC Metal Machining?

CNC metal machining means a manufacturing process with the help of programmed computer software that instructs the movement of the machinery tools. It’s an automated process of manufacturing the metal machined parts to meet the desired specifications. And it consists of various metal removal processes:

  • Mechanical machining
  • Abrasive machining
  • Chemical machining
  • Thermal machining

 

How Does CNC Metal Machining Works?

The CNC system is made up of a device that is fed a programme for cutting the metal according to the specifications. The program inputs all of the necessary cutting processes as well as all of the final dimensions into the computer. As a result, the computer understands precisely what needs to be done and performs all cutting operations.

Lathes, milling machines, and drilling machines are some of the popular machine tools that can be run on a CNC. The main purpose of these machines is to remove some of the metal in order to shape it into a more suitable shape, such as round, rectangular, or square. The CNC machines are known for their accuracy and precision, nowadays for most precision jobs, CNC machines are necessary.

What Are The Benefits Of Metal Machining?

You can completely comprehend the advantages of CNC metal machining if you’re in charge of preparing and running the manufacturing of metal components and parts. Here are some benefits:

#1. Precise metal components

Human error can be removed thanks to autonomous machining and CNC machining’s digital template. CNC machines are there to work exactly with your product specifications whether, in terms of shape, size or any other feature you need in your metal machined part.

#2. Lower production cost

You’ll save money on manufacturing costs. CNC machines are powerful, high-speed, precise, and capable of handling large orders. CNC machining allows you to make and save more money, which is beneficial to your business’s development. Also.

You’ll be able to save money on CNC machine software maintenance because it will upgrade itself as required. CNC machines, in general, do not need a lot of maintenance. All you have to do now is replace the cutting tools and clean up a little.

 

“CNC machines are capable of movements that humans cannot reproduce”

 

#3. Better capability than manual machines

Manual machines are unable to create the outputs when CNC machines are used in combination with sophisticated design tools. Traditional devices used by gifted engineers cannot compete with the capabilities of advanced design software and metal CNC machines. You can create any shape, texture, or size you like with CNC machines.

#4. You get a quality product

Metal CNC machining has the advantage of producing identical outputs. Even the best engineers using a traditional machine can produce slightly different metal parts and components. Each component, on the other hand, is a perfect match thanks to CNC machining that follows the prototype’s exact specifications.

#5. Less need for manual labour

CNC machines can perform manufacturing tasks automatically because they are programmable. As a result, you won’t need to recruit a large number of employees to complete production tasks.

Only one programmer is needed to load the CNC machines with the required designs, and one qualified operator is sufficient to operate multiple CNC machines. You’ll be able to save money on manpower and pass the savings on to your clients, giving the company a competitive edge.

 

| Also Read: Metal Fabrication: How Does It Actually Work?

 

High Precision Metal Machining Services

At MDA, even the most complex precision machined metal parts are no problem for our skilled machinists and flexible machines. We’re completely prepared to meet your needs, whether you need single-part prototyping or high-volume production CNC machining.

CNC Machine metal services provided at MDA are given below:

  • 3D milling
  • Boring
  • Drilling
  • Threading
  • Turning

Another feature that distinguishes MDA from the competition is its modern capabilities. Parts are produced with precision in a climate-controlled machine shop, resulting in improved efficiency and accuracy.

So, if you are looking to get machine metal parts then you need to hire professionals and we at MDA are there to help you with that. To learn more about our services or to get a quote, give us a call at 1(888) 440-4435. When it comes to machine metal facilities, go for the best.

The Basics of Metal Fabrication: How Does It Actually Work?

by | Jul 4, 2019 | Metal Fabrication

Metal Fabrication

Is Metal Fabrication really that easy? Do you simply take metal parts and weld them together and end up with a completed functional part? There is more to it than one might think.
So, in case you have been planning to employ some Metal Machining Services or are just an information sponge who is curious to learn more about this tedious process, here are things that you might want to know:

The Definition: 

Metal Fabrication, simply put, is the process of taking parts and raw materials and bending, cutting and assembling them together.

It usually begins with bidding for a job that is suited to the fabricator. The quote is derived from an engineered drawing or a sample that the end-user wants. If the project is won, the fabricator will (should) do detailed layouts and produce job travelers to ensure that the end result will be to the customer’s satisfaction.

The drawing will contain all that is needed to produce a quality part. Drawings will contain dimensions – tolerances – material specifications – welding specs and finishing requirements if required.

Custom Fabrication Services are usually employed by OEMs, VARs, and contractors. Both human and automation are commonly required to work together to join, shape and form metal.

 

What raw materials are usually used by metal fabricators?

Fabricators use a wide variety of material. Some of the materials commonly used are aluminum, stainless, cold and hot rolled steels. Care must be taken to use the right materials for some may crack when bent or not hold up to stress applied.

Before we can understand what raw materials are required for Metal Fabrication, it would probably help if we knew how the entire process works first.

Some of the processes used to fabricate a part are punching, forming, welding, cutting, laser and water jet cutting.

Things you probably didn’t know about the process:

  • Simply put, if care is not taken at the beginning – such as having proper tooling – proper work instructions – proper measuring equipment, the end result will not be favorable.
  • If there are multiple items welded together in an assembly and one of the components should fail, the entire part will need to be scrapped. Things such as welding, proper forming and even burrs could turn a well-fabricated part into something that is not functional.
  • Metal Fabrication can be a fairly simple process, but if proper care is not used from the beginning and throughout the process, it could be not as easy as one might think.

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