4 Materials Commonly Used in Metal Fabrications
In many buildings, metal fabrication has played an important role. With it, things like fire pits, racks, cabinets, and many other products are made. In fact, even the building can make use of metal fabrication, proving just how versatile metal fabrication is. However, why is metal fabrication so versatile? Is there something special about the process that makes it so? That's is true, but another reason metal fabrication is incredibly versatile is its use of a wide range of materials.
Today, we want to talk about the materials commonly used in metal fabrications and how they are used in today's products.
1. Steel
Steel is made from a combination of iron and carbon, where carbon is the primary alloying material and determines the hardness and tensile strength of the metal.
That being said, steel has a wide range of uses today, from weapons to kitchen utensils. Their specific uses will highly depend on the type of steel that's made, and this can either be carbon steel or stainless steel, both of which are strong, durable, and malleable. Of the two options, carbon steel is much more popular, thanks to its strength, sturdiness, and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. Stainless steel also delivers durability and strength but nothing near what carbon steel can offer. Regardless, stainless steel still has its uses, such as appliances and even surgical equipment.
2. Copper
Copper is a metal that occurs naturally but can also be made from chalcopyrite and bornite, where copper is extracted from these materials.
Regardless of how copper is extracted, it is a popular metal in fabrication used for electrical conductors, transformers, and switches due to its electrical and thermal conductivity. It is also commonly used for things like handrails and doorknobs because they look aesthetically pleasing.
3. Aluminum
Aluminum is made from bauxite, an ore that's generally found in tropical areas. Aluminum itself is found within bauxite and is processed chemically to extract the metal.
In the metal fabrication industry, aluminum has many uses. It is generally used in low-temperature applications, such as freezers and refrigerators. It is also commonly used in beer kegs, foils, window frames, and even airplane parts. This is because it works lightweight and durable and will perform well in low-temperature environments.
4. Magnesium
Magnesium is a common metal found on earth but is generally found mixed in with other elements. As such, it is found in minerals like dolomite and magnesite from which magnesium is extracted.
Magnesium is commonly used in metal fabrication as a structural metal, right after steel and aluminum. This is because magnesium is an incredibly lightweight metal. For that reason, it is found in things like automobile and aircraft parts, although it is also commonly used in things like power tools, laptops, and car seats.
Conclusion
As you can see, metal fabrication gets its versatility from the wide variety of metals used in its creation. From aluminum alloys to steel alloys and more, many combinations are made to meet specific needs and requirements. Even how the metal fabrication is shaped and designed will further impact its use, widening its use cases even more. Really, metal fabrication has been an incredible introduction to many industries, from the construction sector down to the hospitality sector. The versatility of metal fabrication has made creating different things possible and even affordable, bringing t to life many creations that would otherwise be challenging to create if it were not for metal fabrication.
Rost Machining & Fabrication is a small, family-run business providing machining, fabrication, and finishing services in Southbay. Reach out to us today for our machine and fabrication services in San Jose!
