Sheet metal fabrication is a crucial process in the manufacturing industry, shaping and forming sheet metal into various components for various applications. It is essential for creating durable and precise products, from automotive parts to household appliances.
Technology and CAD software advancements have made sheet metal fabrication more precise and efficient. This blog will explore several applications of sheet metal fabrication.
You can learn more about sheet metal techniques.
Applications of sheet metal fabrication
Sheet metal fabrication spans various sectors, from automotive to construction.
Construction
Sheet metal fabrication plays a vital role in the construction industry. It has become a fundamental material in construction because of its strength, durability, and adaptability. Through cutting, bending, shearing, and welding, sheet metal fabrication becomes the building blocks of several components used in construction, such as weather-resistant canopies, support columns, built-up frames, floor drains, gratings, flange channels, industrial walkways, and air ducts.
Architects and designers use sheet metal fabrication to add various elements like roofing systems, flashing, gutters, railing systems, millwork, steeples, and decorative and custom panels. These elements not only provide protection but also enhance the building’s visual appeal.
FMCG industry
Sheet metal fabrication is an indispensable part of the FMCG industry, with applications going beyond the familiar aluminium can.
Compliance with the FSSAI is crucial for food manufacturers, and materials used in the sector must be durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to clean. The properties of stainless steel make it ideal for fabricating essential process equipment like mixers, storage tanks, and workstations. Fabricators use sheet metal fabrication to fabricate durable waste management systems like trash cans, chutes, and dividers for the sector. Other applications include stainless steel containers for storing or transporting food and sinks to ensure hygiene.
Electronics
Sheet metal fabrication allows us to manufacture enclosures to protect sensitive electrical equipment. Its exceptional formability allows it to create enclosures that adhere to NEC (National Electrical Code of India). These enclosures are often designed to be water-resistant (NEMA 6, NEMA 6P, IP67, or IP68) and offer:
- Environmental protection: Sheet metal protects sensitive electronic components from dust, humidity, and high temperatures, which are common in Indian industrial settings.
- Physical Integrity: Electronics are protected against accidental impacts and vibrations that occur during operations.
Sheet metal fabrication is also used to manufacture essential components like cable and electrical trays, ensuring proper organization and protection of wiring systems.
Automation
Automation has become a critical component in modern manufacturing. Sheet metal fabrication is used extensively for crafting critical machine components:
- Robotic component: The formability of sheet metal makes it easy to fabricate complicated components required for robotic arms, grippers, and end-of-arm tools.
- Precise machine bodies: Sheet metal combined with CNC machining creates precise, robust machine bodies that house essential automation components like motors, gearboxes, and control systems.
- Conveyor systems: The strength of sheet metal makes it ideal for constructing different components of the conveyor system, like frames, hoppers, and chutes.
HVAC Ducts and Ventilation Systems
Sheet metal fabrication is an integral part of HVAC systems. Using processes such as bending, cutting, punching, and welding, you can create critical components like ducts, plenums, dampers, and diffusers.
Automotive
The automotive sector has heavily relied on sheet metal since 1914 because of its durability and versatility. It allows for intricate cutting, bending, shaping, and welding, making it ideal for different car components. The industry has moved beyond traditional steel and now uses aluminium, magnesium, titanium, and other alloys.
How do you select a sheet fabricator near you?
Selecting the right fabrication partner can make the difference between smooth project execution and costly delays. Here are some key factors to consider while choosing a sheet fabricator near you:
Industry-specific experience
Look for fabricators with experience similar to your project requirements. Their project portfolio should show they have executed similar projects and understand the challenges and requirements of your industry.
Alignment with Project Specifications and Regulations
Evaluate the fabricator’s capabilities against the technical requirements of your project. This includes verifying their possession of certifications relevant to your industry standards, such as AWS certifications for welding, API certifications for the oil and gas industry, or ASME BPVC certification. for high-pressure vessel applications. Quality standards like ISO 9001 certification show commitment to quality and consistent standards.
Technological Capabilities
Modern custom sheet metal fabrication relies heavily on advanced machinery. Assess if the fabricator has a well-equipped workshop. Do they have required cutting machines (laser, water jet or plasma cutting technology) or welding equipment (GMAW or plasma welding) for your project? Can they handle the scale of your project?
Material compatibility
Not all fabricators can handle all materials. Stainless steel fabrication requires specific expertise. Do they work with the custom sheet metal you require for your project? The fabricator should be able to offer and work with the sheet metal type and thickness you require.
Cost factors
Obtain quotes from multiple fabricators to compare pricing and ensure competitiveness. While costs are important, prioritize a fabricator that fosters open communication and collaboration. Evaluate the fabricator’s response to your inquiries and willingness to work with you, their lead times, and willingness to deliver the product on time.
Location
Sheet fabricators near me offer a logistical advantage, reducing transportation costs and helping you monitor the project more closely. Assessing the proximity to the project site can improve efficiency and streamline operations, making local fabricators a viable option.
Leading sheet fabrication vendors on the Venwiz platform
Taikisha Engineering India Pvt. Ltd
Taikisha Limited, a globally recognized engineering and fabrication firm, holds ISO 9001:2015 certification and specializes in air conditioning, automotive painting, and green technology projects. Their subsidiary, Taikisha Engineering India Pvt. Ltd. (TEI), delivers high-quality solutions with in-house manufacturing plants. TEI’s services encompass design, fabrication, equipment manufacturing, and testing, catering to industries worldwide. With a strong focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Taikisha has established itself as a leader in the field since its inception.
Kotech Infra Private Limited
Kotech Infra Private Limited, based in Pune, Maharashtra, specializes in SS fabrication of high-precision parts for industrial OEMs. With a 100,000 sqft facility equipped with cutting-edge machinery, they offer design, prototype development, heavy equipment fabrication, painting, and more. Serving industries like automotive, transportation, and aerospace, they hold ISO 9001:2015 certification and cater to clients like Sandvik India and ABB-Hitachi. Established in 2021, they are led by CEO Sumit Vise and a team of experienced professionals.
Venwiz: Your Go-To platform for your fabrication requirements
Venwiz is a digital platform that simplifies the way you find and collaborate with capital expenditure (CAPEX) vendors. We take the guesswork out of vendor selection with an objective, digital, and transparent process.
Looking for vendors online can be tedious and unreliable. Venwiz streamlines this process with powerful search functionality:
- Contextual search: Stop spending hours looking for vendors and use our filters to identify vendors that match your project requirements. Our powerful contextual search helps you identify the most relevant vendors, saving you valuable time and effort.
- Vast Vendor Network: Don’t limit your options and get access to a comprehensive pool of over 20,000 verified vendors across 54 CAPEX categories. This extensive network ensures you have several qualified vendors, increasing your chances of finding the perfect fit for your project.
- Detailed Vendor Profiles: Make informed decisions with confidence. Our platform provides comprehensive vendor profiles that go beyond basic contact information. You’ll find detailed listings of each vendor’s capabilities, past experiences with similar projects, and verified reviews from other users. This in-depth information empowers you to make well-rounded selections.
- Effortless Communication: Our platform enables users to send multiple inquiries and manage all communication from our platform, ensuring seamless interactions with vendors throughout the procurement process.
Compare vendor profiles and quotes: Users can effortlessly compare technical and commercial profiles of vendors and quotations from multiple vendors simultaneously, facilitating quick and informed decision-making. Make a request, and you will receive the comparison in 3 hours.
Streamlined Project Management: Users can leverage our e-RFX tools and procurement scheduler to effectively organise and track their projects, enhancing overall efficiency and productivity.
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