Sheet Metal Forming
Processes, Methods, Materials & Benefits. A complete overview of transforming flat metal sheets into intricate industrial components.
What is Sheet Metal Forming?
Sheet metal forming (or pressworking) involves shaping thin metal sheets, strips, and coils into complex forms without adding or removing material. It relies on the application of precise force to plastically deform the metal while keeping its mass solid.
Commonly performed on presses at room temperature, these operations require heavy machinery to withstand high stress loads.
Suitable Materials
Low-Carbon Steel
Cost-effective, high strength & formability.
Aluminum
Corrosion resistance. Beverage cans, cookware.
Copper
Electrical components, aesthetic items.
9 Common Forming Processes
From basic bending to advanced laser cutting techniques.
1. Bending
Applying force (usually via a Press Brake) to bend sheet metal into a V-shape, U-shape, or channel. The punch forces the sheet into a die to achieve precise angles.
2. Deep Drawing
Transforming a flat blank into a hollow, cup-shaped component. A punch draws the material into a cavity. Essential for fuel tanks, sinks, and cans.
3. Shearing
Cutting material along a straight line using two cutting edges. Includes Punching (creating holes) and Blanking (cutting out the workpiece).
4. Rolling
Passing metal through rollers to reduce thickness or change cross-section. Rollforming is used for long, continuous shapes like tracks and shelving.
5. Stretching
Workpiece edges are gripped by jaws while a form die presses into the sheet, causing plastic deformation. Ideal for smooth surfaces like aircraft wings.
6. Curling
Bending a metal edge into a hollow circular roll. Used to remove sharp burrs and create safe, rounded edges for handling.
7. Hemming
Folding the edge onto itself to create a double layer. Enhances structural integrity and durability, common in automotive doors and panels.
8. Ironing
Thinning the metal sheet walls by punching through restricted dies. Crucial for ensuring uniform wall thickness in aluminum cans.
9. Laser Cutting
Using a concentrated laser beam to vaporize or melt material. Offers intricate precision, minimal waste, and no contact distortion.
Key Advantages
Versatile Shapes
From complex aircraft parts to simple beverage cans, preserving structural integrity.
Wide Material Range
Accommodates Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Copper, and various alloys.
Strength & Durability
Inherent material strength ensures robust, enduring components.
Cost-Effective
More economical than forging or casting for many applications without compromising quality.
Choose Excellence in Metal Forming
Experience unmatched precision with Tong Lay Doo. Whether you need deep drawing, precise bending, or laser cutting, our certified expertise ensures your project exceeds industry standards.
We Support Low-Quantity Needs
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