Some Basic Ideas To Work In Precision Sheet Metal

By Author: Stuart Small
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The precision sheet metal business creates products that are normally used in vending systems, electronics, test equipment and medical equipment.

The precision aspect has to do with the dimensional accuracy of the parts. The thickness of the raw material is generally within 5% of nominal. The equipment used to fabricate the parts will typically hold within .005" (0.12mm). The significant variables in accuracy are typically the condition of the machinery and tooling, the size of the parts, the skill of the craftsmen, and the type of finish applied to the parts.

The materials and processes are versatile. A great diversity of product applications may be satisfied by proper design and engineering.

The normal used material for all sheet metal manufacturing procedure is typically the output of the rolling operation. Normally all sheets of metal are purchased as rectangular sheets which are flat and of a standard size. If the sheets are long and thin they can be purchased in the form of rolls. The first thing you should do in any sheet metal process is to first cut out the correct shape and then sized ‘blank’ ...
... from the bigger sheet.

Sheet metal processes can be broken down into two major classifications and one minor classification

1) Shearing processes is when applying shearing forces to fracture, cut, or separate the material.

2) Forming processes cause the metal to undergo required shape or size changes without cracking, failure, or excessive thinning. This includes stretching or bending.

3) Finishing processes are used for improving the final surface characteristics.

Work Environment

Sheet metal workers usually work a 40-hour week. Those individuals who fabricate sheet metal items often work in manufacturing plants and small shops that are very well ventilated and lit. However, they are required to stand on their feet for extended periods of time and have to lift heavy loads and finished pieces on a daily basis. Those who perform the installation on construction sites do lots of lifting, standing, bending, climbing, and squatting often in small quarters. By working outside they are exposed to the extreme heat or cold conditions.

Safety

Sheet metal workers should always follow safety procedures due to their occupation having an extremely high ratio of nonfatal injuries. Some employees have to work around high-speed machines which can be extremely dangerous. Other workers are subjected to mild to moderate cuts from sharp metal, severe burns from welding or soldering and falls from scaffolds or ladders. They will need to wear safety goggles, no jewelry or loose clothing that may cause the worker to be caught by the machine. In order to prevent these repetitive type injuries they may work at several different production stations.

Skills

Sheet metal workers should be in relatively good physical condition and have some type of efficient skills in mathematical aptitude, mechanical and reading skills. Accurate perception of spaces and forms, excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity also are imperative. Courses in trigonometry, geometry, algebra, mechanical drawing and shop will provide you with a useful background for learning this particular trade.

Neck and back injuries are amongst the most common reasons why workers apply for of Worker's Compensation. A severe muscle injury may keep a sheet metal employee from working for months while their bones, tendons and muscles have a chance to heal well enough to return to work.

Sheet metal tools should only be handled and used with proper care. You should only use sheet metal tools once you have received the required training on how to properly use them. If an inexperienced individual uses the tools they may sustain injuries. You should never allow children or individuals who are not experienced handle or be around these types or tools.

Author About:

Stuart Small from Stevens Rowsell Sheet Metal Engineering writes about Sheet Metal. For more information about Sheet Metal visit www.stevensrowsell.com