Many experts predict that the international metal fabrication equipment market will grow by almost 7% by the year 2020. This could be attributed to the recent improvements made to steel in the past decade. Steel parts are about 30% stronger and known for being more dent resistant than previously, which makes it a more attractive metal to work use. But even with these improvements, working with steel is not without its potential troubles. Here are a few common problems steel workers run into with metal fabrication.
Helpful Tips For Sheet Metal Fabrication.
In today’s market, it is difficult to discuss sheet metal fabrication and not talk about computer numeric control, or precision CNC machining services. A CNC machining company uses the assistance of computers to produce complex parts from metal with a high degree of accuracy.
CNC Machining: What It Does, and Why It’s Great.
Computer numeric control means that a special computer is used to cut, laser, punch, and form complex parts and components. CNC can do this with a high degree of accuracy, with a speed that a human worker cannot achieve with their hands and eyes. Using CNC machining also creates the parts much faster, and can duplicate each piece or component many times over. This makes it the preferred process for difficult or delicate jobs.
Even with these attractive attributes, CNC machining is not without its potential problems. A problem or error can arise due to: incorrect programming; inadequate maintenance practices; or using the wrong tools or settings. These problems can be avoided by having a good CNC controller. The right controller will keep the machine in good working order, and will ensure the right tools will be used for each job.
The 5 Axis Machining Process: How to Avoid Problems During Metal Fabrication.
The 5 axis machining process is a part of the CNC metal fabrication. The way it works is that the computer numeric control tells five different axes to perform work on a piece moving along the axes simultaneously. This results in a complex piece being created relatively quickly, with incredible accuracy and the ability to duplicate it later. Because there are five axes moving simultaneously, it is important to keep the machine working properly.
A few common problems associated with this type of machining are as follows. The metal may warp as the machine is punching holes. This is an issue of compression and appropriate tension. Another problem is misalignment while cutting. To avoid this, always use a practice piece of metal to ensure the computer is giving accurate commands.
Sheet metal may have been around since between 4000 and 5000 B.C., some scholars estimate. CNC machining has only been around since the end of the second World War. Still, the sheet metal fabrication industry is expected to grow over the next couple of years due to it’s reliability.