Introduction to Sheet Metal Fabrication
Do you need prototypes and fully assembled sheet metal components fast? Sheet metal fabrication has the capacity to create rapid prototypes of single parts or 100 parts. At MetaFab, we provide full turnkey sheet metal fabrication services.
The Sheet Metal Fabrication Process
Sheet Metal Fabrication begins with prototyping. We can work from your existing CAD design or, even a sketch that you made on a napkin. After perfecting your prototype, everyone gets excited as we enter the production phase. Our sheet metal fabricators apply precision cutting, forming, and welding to bring your idea to reality. Our welding capabilities include Spot welding, Mig, and Tig welding. We can form up to ¼” of sheet metal (6.5 mm) in our CNC press brakes.
Confidence is our promise to you. That’s why we treat every product with Meta Fab’s 3-Steps for Quality; Validate, Perform, Verify.
If desired, your products are treated with surface finishing. This extra step adds to, removes, or alters the surface to achieve the desired property. Our full-service powder coat booths provide exact coatings to any metallic surface in a variety of colors and textures.
Types of Sheet Metal
When it comes to sheet metal, there’s more than one type of material to choose from. Before the process starts, it’s essential that we work together to find the best one for you.
Steel
Steel is what’s most commonly thought of for sheet metal fabrication projects. Steel is known for its durability and strength. However, steel is on the heavier side.
Aluminum
Aluminum is lighter than steel but its strength is comparable. You can find more information in our blog article aluminum versus steel. Aluminum is a preferred choice for lower temperatures which partially accounts for its use in aerospace.
Brass
When you think of brass, trombones and trumpets come to mind. That’s because it has tremendous acoustic properties.
It’s also used in fittings and components. What makes brass attractive is its lightweight and resistance to corrosion.
Copper
Copper is a common metal used for making electronics. It’s conductive and malleable. Copper’s uses range from household fixtures like kitchen sinks to large structures. If you’re looking for a metal that requires minimal maintenance and, patinas naturally over time, copper is worth considering.
At MetaFab, we specialize in helping you choose the right metal for your specific project. We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen to your individual needs and make the right recommendations accordingly. For 35 years, we’ve continually earned the reputation as the Portland area’s leading expert when it comes to sheet metal fabrication.
Common Items that We Fabricate
Although we can fabricate just about anything with sheet metal, we specialize in offering sheet metal fabrication services to a variety of industries. Our trusted partners include the semiconductor industry, government, consumer electronics, metering and controls, and telecommunications to name a few.
Common products include, but aren’t limited to:
- Metal chassis
- Sheet metal covers
- Aluminum and steel boxes
- Stainless steel panels
- CRS brackets
- Sub-components
- Full assemblies for numerous specialized industries
Final Thoughts
The term sheet metal fabrication is one that gets thrown around a lot. The reality is, however, not many people or companies truly know what it means. It’s our mission at Meta Fab to change that. Our goal is to help you understand the process from start to finish. It’s our commitment to you, to listen to your needs, make our best recommendations, and communicate with you every step of the way to ensure the final product exceeds your expectations.