Types of Machines That Are Used in Metal Fabrication
Sheet metal workers are responsible for shaping metal parts to conform to specifications from blueprints. Today, the work of a sheet metal worker may be done with a laser cutter, a water jet, or one of many other cutting tools. In this post, we will discuss some types of fabrication machines and how they are used:
Types of Machines That Are Used in Metal Fabrication
1 - Lathe machine
A lathe machine is a machine tool used to cut, form, and shape metal components by removing metal. A lathe is a spindle-mounted tool that spins on a vertical axis. In a lathe, the component is rotated while a tool (typically a chisel) moves in and out of the component.
2 - Drilling machine
A driller is a machine tool used to drill holes in metal components. The component is mounted to the machine table, and the drill bit is pressed into the component. The drill typically has a rotating part that forces the bit against the component.
3 - Grinding machine
A grinder is typically used by sheet metal workers to remove excess material from a component. The grinder can also be used to make precise cuts. Grinders are typically considered to be a hand tools, but there are many industrial grinders capable of removing large amounts of material very quickly.
4 - Plane machine
A plane machine is similar to a lathe machine. A plane machine is mounted in an X-Y-Z gantry machine, which means it can move in three dimensions. The gantry machine may be computer-controlled or manually operated. The plane machine uses a rotating cutter to remove metal.
5 - Punch machine
A punch machine is used to punch holes in metal parts. The machine moves up and down, and the punching arm moves back and forth. The punch machine then pushes the punch against the metal part. There are many different sizes of punch machines. Different sizes of punches are used for different-sized holes.
6 - Shearing machine
A shearing machine is used to cut metal pieces that are too large for a punch machine. A shearing machine uses a cut-off saw to cut metal parts. There are different types of shearing machines that use different saws. The machine also may use a cutting press to cut the metal part.
7 - Oxy-gas torches
An oxy-gas torch is used to cut metal parts. The torch uses a mixture of oxygen and propane to burn the metal. The metal part is often clamped in a vise or fixed to a table.
8 - Hem band saw
A hem band saw is used to cut curved, hem-like curves. The hem band saw has a blade that runs along the bottom of the tube. The blade is connected to a motor. The tube is mounted on a cutting table and the motor moves the blade back and forth.
Conclusion
As you can see, many different types of metal fabrication machines are used in today’s industries. These machines are used to create new metal parts, as well as repair old parts. The use of metal fabrication machines helps modern metal fabricators to quickly produce and repair metal parts.
If you are looking to get machine and fabrication work done, come to Rost Machining and Fabrication (RMF)! We are the premier provider of machining, fabrication, and finishing services in the South Bay! As a small, family-run business we can put you - our customer - first and foremost, delivering personalized service that you won’t find elsewhere. For industries from Automotive to Aerospace to Robotics, whether you need milling, turning, lasing, welding, grinding, or more, RMF will deliver the results you need!
