Sheet metal is a key asset to many aspects of life. From aerospace design to silverware, sheet metal fabrication helps individuals complete many tasks. There are four different forms of sheet metal. These include:
- Cold rolled steel
- Hot rolled steel
- Stainless steel
- Aluminum
Explore the different sheet metals and which applications require sheet metal fabrication ahead. Your metal fabrication facility can cater to these applications for consistent business. Using different metal fabrication processes, your shop can produce any popular sheet metal type.
Cold Rolled Steel
Cold rolled steel is created with a rolling process conducted at room temperature. Then, a condensing process performed in a cold state turns the steel into sheet metal. The cold temperatures increase the metal’s strength.
Who Uses It?
- Cold rolled steel is popular in architecture and home design, since it provides a more polished, even appearance than hot rolled steel.
- Many home appliances, metal furnishing, lockers, and metal cabinets use this sheet metal type.
- The construction industry uses cold rolled steel for steel sheds, industrial buildings, and garages.
Hot Rolled Steel
Hot rolled steel is a bit more complicated than cold rolled steel, but easier to manipulate when in sheet form. This sheet metal is also inexpensive to produce, and people can make it quickly.
Who Uses It?
- Its surface imperfections make this sheet metal more ideal for structural components such as beams, rails, and cross sections.
- Artists often use hot rolled steel for metal sculptures.
- This metal is also common in truck and auto seat frames.
- The agricultural industry often uses hot rolled steel to build durable equipment.
Stainless Steel
For more industrious applications, stainless steel is the way to go. You can easily weld stainless steel and guarantee a polished finish. When exploring which applications require sheet metal fabrication, you’ll find stainless steel is highly popular for its resistance to rust and corrosion.
Who Uses It?
- The automotive industry applies stainless steel for exhaust systems, trim, grills, and other vehicle components.
- Medical professionals also use stainless steel. They use sheet metal for dental instruments, MRI scanners, surgical implants, and metal plates.
