Precision Metal Fabricators and Commonly Used Materials
This is often a question we receive when we are working with a new partner or a client who wants to engineer a prototype with our help.
As an Ohio steel fabricator, our services allow for a wide variety of materials to be used to fabricate the most reliable parts for your application. Whether you need a partner to produce an existing component or could use some advice on engineering a new part – our metal fabrication experience extends over many different materials.
How Metal Fabrication Materials are Delineated
Materials have different criteria that are used to evaluate them when used in fabrication.
- Grade – The type of material or alloy
- Temper – The hardness of the material
- Tolerance – What the material can handle from a forming, machining standpoint
- Thickness– The density of the material
As precision metal fabricators, Alloy works with materials of different shapes as well – including flat sheet and rolled metal. Our fabrication capabilities also include laser cutting metal tubes.
Material Grades
Metal fabrication materials selection is dependent on the qualities desired for the manufactured part. Factors like strength, hardness, conductivity and corrosion resistance can come into play when selecting the right material for a prototype or project.
These are the most common grades selected when working with Alloy:
- Steel – Made of iron and carbon and other elements like coal, iron ore and limestone. It is the most commonly used material in metal fabrication, and its applications are endless.
- Carbon Steel – Can be made to meet a desired hardness depending on the levels of carbon used. The higher the level of carbon, the stronger the steel, but levels of ductility, malleability and melting point decrease.
- Stainless Steel – A highly corrosive resistant material, stainless steel is made of carbon steel and other elements such as aluminum or chromium. It is known for its polished silver appearance and has many uses including appliances, cook wear, and tools.
- Copper – Useful in many applications because it can easily conduct electricity. Copper is tough, ductile and resistant to corrosion making it useful in many industrial or marine applications.
- Brass – Made of copper and zinc, it is often used for smaller pieces like nuts, bolts, pipe fittings and even casting musical instruments because of its acoustic properties.
- Aluminum – Lightweight, durable with excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, aluminum doesn’t stand up well to extreme heat but is ideal for cold temperature applications.
Other materials can be used, like galvanized or cold rolled steel and inconel. Depending on the application, we will make the necessary recommendations to assure your project performs at its best.
Whether you have a set project spec or want to start from scratch, contact us, and we will work with you to find an innovative and cost-effective solution for your job.