Sheet metal fabrication is a manufacturing process that transforms flat metal sheets into functional parts and assemblies through cutting, bending, forming, and joining operations. Unlike CNC machining which removes material from solid stock, or 3D printing which adds material layer by layer, sheet metal fabrication leverages the strength and formability of thin metal sheets (0.5mm to 25mm thick) to create lightweight, cost-effective parts with excellent structural properties.
The fabrication process typically begins with laser cutting or waterjet cutting to create precise 2D profiles from flat sheets. These flat patterns are then formed into 3D shapes using CNC press brakes (bending), stamping, or roll forming. Multiple components can be joined through welding (TIG, MIG, spot), hardware fasteners, or riveting. Finally, parts receive surface finishing - powder coating, anodizing, plating, or painting - for corrosion resistance, aesthetics, and durability.
At Partwork, sheet metal fabrication offers tolerances from ±0.1mm (laser cutting) to ±0.5mm (bending), material thickness from 0.5mm to 25mm, and part sizes up to 3000mm × 1500mm. This makes sheet metal the ideal choice for enclosures, chassis, brackets, panels, cabinets, ductwork, and any application requiring thin-walled, rigid structures at high volume and low cost.