There are many different ways to make parts and components out of metal. Some require the heating of the metal to a molten state, and then the molten metal is pushed through a die to create a continuous shape. This extrusion process is often used with aluminum and other types of metals.
Other methods of creating shapes include machining processes, which are designed to remove parts of the workpiece to leave the final shape. This is ideal for both simple as well as complex shapes.
Metal stamping and forming of sheet metal are both considered cold working processes. These types of sheet metal forming can be used to create small to large parts and components, and it uses pressure on room temperature sheet metal to push it through a single die or a series of dies to create the desired shape. Metal forming also uses specific shapes to form the metal, and the use of press brake can be used to create edges, angles, and channels.
Other methods of creating shapes include machining processes, which are designed to remove parts of the workpiece to leave the final shape. This is ideal for both simple as well as complex shapes.
Working with Sheet Metal
Not all of the processes above work with sheet metal. Sheet metal forming is designed to create a shape in the material without removing or changing the form of the metal. As there is no direct heat involved, there is limited if any change in the physical characteristics of the metal, which means no additional working of the part or component is required after the forming process.
Benefits of the Process
In using a sheet metal forming process to create parts and components, the cost of production can be decreased over other methods. This is a fast forming process, and large volume orders of simple to complex parts can be formed exceptionally quickly and with high levels of precision.
