The sheet metal fabrication process flow chart:
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Receive customer specifications and requirements |
| 2 | Create design 2D and 3D drawings or models |
| 3 | Plan the manufacturing process, including sheet metal material selection and tooling requirements |
| 4 | Procure the required sheet metal materials |
| 5 | Cut the materials into appropriate sizes using cutting techniques (shearing, laser cutting, etc.) |
| 6 | Bend sheet meterial into desired shapes using techniques such as folding or CNC press brake bending |
| 7 | Form the sheet metal into desired shapes using techniques such as deep drawing or roll forming |
| 8 | Create holes or slots in the metal using cutting techniques such as punching or drilling |
| 9 | Join the metal components together using techniques such as welding, riveting, or adhesive bonding |
| 10 | Apply surface treatments (grinding, painting, powder coating, anodizing, etc.) for improved appearance and corrosion resistance |
| 11 | Conduct quality control inspections to ensure dimensional accuracy and surface quality |
| 12 | Package the finished products securely for transportation |
| 13 | Deliver the products to the customer |
Sheet Metal Fabrication Process Stages in RDL
Designing:
In the design phase, clients collaborate with our designer to provide design specifications and refine the designs for manufacturing. This crucial step determines the project’s economic efficiency and manufacturing approach. Having a dedicated and experienced designer skilled in CAD is essential for creating a high-quality final product.
Programming:
After finalizing the designs, they are translated into a machine-readable language during the programming process. Parts are drawn and nested onto a metal sheet in 2D form to optimize material utilization.
Cutting:
Once the machine programs are set, laser cutting is performed. Laser cutting is a highly precise method where lasers follow the programmed design and effortlessly cut through the sheet metal with precision.
Punching:
Certain components require specific perforations or shapes such as ribs, louvres, or countersinks. A CNC punching machine uses specialized tools to “hit” the metal sheet and perforate or shape it accordingly.
Bending:
The bending process, known as CNC folding, is carried out using different machines based on the part’s size and complexity. Manual press brakes, automated panel bending machines, or robotic bend cells can be utilized. The sheet metal is clamped between a top tool and die, and pressure is applied to achieve the desired curvature.
Welding:
Various welding techniques can be employed for sheet metal fabrication, including MIG welding, TIG welding, spot welding, projection welding, and robotic welding.
Assembly:
The assembly stage varies based on the complexity of the final product. It can range from simple weld assemblies to intricate electrical integrations, such as wiring looms, PAT testing, and hardware installation. Some assemblies require insertion, which involves pressing studs, nuts, or other components to fasten the product together.
Powder Coating:
Powder coating is the process of applying electrostatic powder to a charged metal component, followed by curing at high heat to produce a durable coating. At RDL, we utilize our powder coating plant.
Each stage in the sheet metal fabrication process contributes to creating high-quality, customized metal products efficiently and effectively.
Each sheet metal fabrication project follows key phases to ensure successful completion.
If you require custom sheet metal fabrication parts, please feel free to contact us.
Tina Yang
Phone: +86-186 6888 0953 (WhatsApp)
Email: sales@platemetalmfg.com
Ningbo Ridley Machinery Co., Ltd. | Ningbo Ridley Trading Co., Ltd.
Address: No.6, Shuangjiu Road, Chaiqiao Street, Beilun District, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, China, 315800
Website: www.platemetalmfg.com