Sheet metal is used in a wide variety of industrial applications, and some companies rely on sheet metal fabrication to make a number of needed parts. Since sheet metal plays a large role in some companies' production and operations, it is always a good idea to examine ways that sheet metal fabrication can be done in a more cost-effective manner. Continue reading to learn more about how to save money on sheet metal fabrication:
Use the Right Material
The price of materials is one of the biggest factors in sheet metal fabrication costs. When a company wants to reduce expenses related to sheet metal fabrication, one of the easiest things to do is analyze the types of materials being used. In many cases, a more expense type of metal can be swapped out with a less expensive metal in order to make a part. For example, companies may want to consider using aluminum for sheet metal fabrication instead of stainless steel.
Use Standard Sheet Metal Gauges
When fabricating sheet metal, using standard gauges helps keep costs down. There are few situations that really require gauges that are outside of the norm, so using non-standard gauges is often a waste of money. In addition, using metal that is thicker than it needs to be also limits what kinds of bends are possible for a part.
Design Simple Bends
The more complicated a part is, the more expensive sheet metal fabrication will be. If your company has noticed that sheet metal fabrication expenses are rising, it is a good idea to analyze the types of parts being made. Making some changes to the design and implementing simpler angled bends can drastically reduce the cost of sheet metal fabrication. When making changes to the design, avoid small bends on thick pieces of metal, as this can cause serious inaccuracies that can cause a part to be unusable after fabrication.
Keep Bend Orientation Uniform
Bends that are on the same plane need to be designed in a way that ensures that they are all going in the same direction. This is very important in order to prevent part reorientation. Taking the time to ensure that bend orientation is uniform is an easy way to both reduce sheet metal fabrication costs and save time during the fabrication process. In addition to bend orientation, maintaining bend radius is also an easy method to create sheet metal parts that are very cost-effective.
For more tips, contact a local sheet metal fabrication company like Varitronics Sheet Metal Fab.
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