Tutorials on Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal cutting is a manufacturing process that separates metal into defined shapes using controlled energy or mechanical force, and it directly determines how accurately, efficiently, and economically parts are produced. As fabrication shops face tighter tolerances and shorter lead times, laser cutting and waterjet cutting have emerged as the two most widely adopted technologies, together accounting for the majority of precision sheet metal operations worldwide. The reason is practical rather than theoretical. Cut quality influences bending accuracy, assembly fit, surface finish, and even inspection pass rates. This article explains how laser cutting and waterjet cutting work, where each method excels, and how to choose the right cutting approach based on material, thickness, tolerance, and production intent.

The purchase of a new fiber laser is not an insignificant one. Yet often companies will overlook the relatively inexpensive cost of appropriate CAM and nesting software that could get significantly better performance out of their investment. Martin Bailey, General Manager of JETCAM explains techniques that can squeeze more performance out of your CNC laser.

Nathan Ford, Area Sales Manager for Fein Power Tools in the UK, discusses what you should look for when purchasing a mag drill, the applications some can now achieve, and the kind of accessories available in the market. Not only that, but he provides some further information on health and safety features, and concludes by briefly covering cordless/compact mag drills, new into the UK market.

Here Paul Kitchin, National Applications Manager at FEIN gives a practical guide on features to look out for when buying an angle grinder

Angle grinders are a staple of the UK tradesperson’s tool collection across a wide range of disciplines and they are extremely useful to have to cut, polish and grind a wide variety of materials. However, finding the best one for your requirements can be difficult, as there appears to be almost infinite variations available.

Tip courtesy of Design Optimization Consulting Services: "Here’s a tip that I’ve given to several people over the years concerning straightening out a sheared strip of material. It’s one of those things where you read it, and say to yourself, well that’s pretty obvious. But it’s something people never really think of at the time."

These change elbow fittings will save time, space and material. It will also give you a more professional look on the completed job. We show this fitting 60 Degrees but use the same method for any angle and size. The inside throat radius is 2", however we do show the same fitting near the end with a 1 to 1 radius to width ratio.