Whether you know it or not, metal forming is an integral part of our lives. A lot of the goods we use exist owing to the wonder of metal forming.
Metal forming is a set of processes and techniques used in manufacturing to produce metal parts and workpieces. As the name suggests, the metal forming process uses methods like compression, applying force, and tension to form finished goods. This is done across industries to make products from cutlery to cars.
There are many many types of metal-forming processes. The most common processes are forging, roll forming or rolling, extrusion, sheet metal forming, press-braking, and casting. Let’s get to know them in a little more detail,
CNC laser cutting is a popular, non-contact metal forming process that involves the use of a high-powered laser beam to cut, engrave or mark metals. This technique offers numerous benefits, including high precision, intricate designs and minimal wastage, making it ideal for a variety of industrial applications.
A popular metal forming process, CNC turret punching uses a computer-controlled machine to punch shapes and holes in sheet metal. It includes various processes, such as casting, forging, extrusion and rolling, and is popular for its speed, flexibility and accuracy in creating multiple patterns and shapes.
This is metal forming equipment. CNC shearing machines use computer-controlled blades to cut sheet metal into precise sizes and shapes. Categorised as a mechanical cutting process, it is used together with other metal forming techniques, such as punching and bending to create complex structures and shapes.
Another type of metal forming equipment, the CNC tube laser cutting machine uses a high-powered laser to cut and shape metal tubing. It is ideal for creating complex and intricate designs with high accuracy and precision. This equipment is commonly used in industries such as construction, automotive and aerospace.
- Sheet Metal Forming
Sheet metal fabrication is done through this technique of metal forming. It uses sheet metal to fabricate products like building fixtures, aircraft frames, brackets, and more. Sheet metal fabrication is a versatile means of metal forming since it can use large-area sheets for larger goods and smaller sheets for goods like utensils and beer cans.
- Press-Braking
This method of metal forming uses punches and dies. It bends the metal at an angle and then is put through between the punch and the die. It is ideal to create smaller and simpler metal parts.
Applications of Metal Forming Process
The metal forming operations, while complicated, are used in many industries. Some of these are,
- Aerospace Engineering
- Construction and Architecture
- Food storage and Kitchenware
- Automotive manufacturing
- Defence and Military
- Electrical Appliances
Advantages of Metal Forming
- Simple and versatile
- Cost-efficient for bulk forming
- Products made are durable and strong
- Speedy for mass production
- Can use a variety of metals
- Reduced scrap parts
- Majorly automated, reducing production time and human errors
How to Choose a Metal Forming Process?
The biggest deciding factor while choosing a metal forming process is to know the metal you are working with, the desired product and its usage. An additional factor to keep in mind is forming operations and their cost-effectiveness for the project at hand.
Wondering where you can find the goods required for metal forming? Phillips India offers quality metal-forming products in India to help you out. Get in touch with us to know more.