1. Design stage
In the initial stage of sheet metal processing, precise design is required. This process is usually completed with the help of computer-aided design (CAD) software. Designers draw detailed two-dimensional or three-dimensional drawings based on the functional requirements and size requirements of the product. For example, when manufacturing a metal ventilation duct, the designer needs to consider details such as the diameter, length, bending angle and connection method of the duct. These design parameters will directly guide the subsequent processing operations.
2. Cutting
Laser cutting
This is a high-precision cutting method. The laser beam is focused on the surface of the metal sheet, causing the sheet to melt or vaporize instantly, thereby achieving cutting. For example, for thin stainless steel sheets, laser cutting can cut very complex shapes with smooth cutting edges and small heat-affected zones.
Plasma cutting
Plasma cutting uses a high-temperature plasma arc to melt metal sheets. It is suitable for cutting thicker metal sheets at a relatively fast speed. However, compared with laser cutting, the accuracy and smoothness of the cutting edges may be slightly worse.
Shearing machine cutting
For some simple shapes and straight-line cutting needs, shearing machines can be used. The shearing machine cuts the metal sheet into the required size through the relative movement of the upper and lower blades.
3. Bending
Bending machine operation
The bending machine is the main equipment for bending metal sheets. Place the cut metal sheet on the workbench of the bending machine, and bend the sheet at a predetermined angle by adjusting the bending die and applying pressure. When manufacturing a metal cabinet, it is necessary to use the bending machine many times to make each side of the cabinet.
Rolling
For some metal sheets that need to be bent into an arc, such as large metal pipes or round container shells, rolling bending can be used. Feed the sheet between the rollers of the rolling bending machine, and the sheet is gradually bent into the required arc by the rotation of the rollers.
4. Connection
Welding
Welding is a common method for connecting metal sheets together. For example, in the manufacture of building steel structures, metal rods are welded into a frame structure by arc welding. Welding can provide higher connection strength, but skilled operators are required to ensure welding quality and avoid welding defects.
Riveting
Riveting is a traditional connection method. Insert the rivet into the pre-drilled hole, and then deform one end of the rivet through a riveting machine or hand tool to fix it on the plate. Riveting is still widely used in some occasions where the connection strength requirement is not particularly high and it needs to be easy to disassemble and repair.
Bolt connection
Bolt connection is the easiest connection method to disassemble and install. In mechanical manufacturing, many equipment shells or components are connected by bolts to facilitate the assembly, commissioning and maintenance of equipment.
5. Surface treatment
Spraying
In order to prevent metal sheets from rusting and improve their aesthetics, spraying treatment can be carried out. In automobile manufacturing, the metal sheets of the car body will be sprayed with multiple layers of paint, including primer, topcoat, etc. after cutting, bending and connecting processes to protect the car body and give it a beautiful appearance.
Electroplating
Electroplating is to plate a layer of other metals on the surface of the metal sheet, such as chrome plating, zinc plating, etc. Galvanizing can effectively prevent metal sheets from rusting in humid environments and is often used in the manufacture of metal structural parts for construction and some outdoor equipment.
Through the above series of processes, metal sheets are processed into a variety of products, which are widely used in many fields such as construction, machinery manufacturing, automobiles, aerospace, etc.
