Many different metals come in sheet form and can be engineered for different applications across manufacturing and construction. Fabricating sheet metal refers to the process whereby the material is cut, shaped, welded, formed or rolled into various structures or components for its intended purpose. Widely used metals include steel, aluminium and copper, but other less common metals are increasingly being deployed too.
With all the options on the market, selecting the right material for your project can be challenging. In this blog, we break down the different metals used in sheet metal fabrication and explore their properties and applications.
There are lots of different types of sheet metal, each of varying strength, cost, weight, formability, weldability, and corrosion resistance.
Steel sheets come in several different types. Stainless steel fabrication is typically used where strength and durability are key, for example, for tools and machinery that undergo heavy use over time.
In addition to its aesthetic, shiny surface, stainless steel has a layer of chromium oxide that protects it from harsh environments and corrosion, ensuring it maintains its appearance. This protection also makes it a great solution for architectural structures and transportation, such as cars and aircraft.
Stainless steel sheet metal fabrication is not only a versatile and low-maintenance solution, but also a good circular material, often made from recycled material and fully recyclable at its end of life.
Mild or ‘low carbon’ steel is another versatile and recyclable steel sheet metal material. It’s easily formed, machined and welded, making it ideal for complex parts and precision sheet metal fabrication.
Though it is not as strong and resistant as its higher carbon counterparts, mild steel sheet metal offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for supporting structures in construction and for fixtures like gates and railings, as well as more intricate machinery parts and hardware. Additionally, a steel fabricator can produce mild steel more cheaply than other types of steel.
A protective zinc coating gives galvanised sheet metal an extra layer of protection, making it resistant to corrosion and harsh environments. It’s the ideal choice for heavy-duty outdoor and industrial applications, including structural components in buildings and bridges, like beams and columns, as well as for use in roofing and cladding.
Its durability and resistance to rusting also makes it suitable for the undercarriage of vehicles and other exposed parts to expand their lifespan. While the initial cost is higher, galvanised steel doesn’t typically require regular maintenance or replacements and is therefore more cost-effective over time.
Aluminium sheet metal can be easily drilled, cut, machined, welded or soldered to create more complex shapes and or to be drawn into wires. Its thermal and electrical conductivity makes it ideal for electrical wiring and overheads, transmission cables and heat exchangers.
Strong yet lightweight, aluminium fabrications are also used in transportation and aerospace industries for vehicle bodies and engine parts to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency. Its resistance to corrosion also makes it a valuable material in renewable energy for solar panels and wind turbines, as it withstands exposure to the elements.
While aluminium is versatile, its range of applications can change based on how the metal is made. Pure aluminium can be hot or cold milled to reduce the sheet thickness or alter its finish to achieve a desired look or application.
Aluminium sheet metal fabrication is also an attractive option for projects with sustainability targets as it’s infinitely recyclable and this only requires around 5% of the energy needed to produce new aluminium from raw ore.
Copper sheet metal is workable, ductile and malleable. It has superior electrical and thermal conductivity, making it perfect for electrical wiring and cables as well as systems that need to efficiently transfer heat, such as radiators and HVAC systems.
When exposed to air, copper forms a protective layer of copper oxide, making it corrosion resistant and ideal for outdoor and architectural applications. This, paired with its durability, makes it a popular choice in roofing systems and cladding, for solar panels and wind turbines, and in components for industrial machinery. Copper is also 100% recyclable without losing any of its properties, reducing the requirement for new copper to be mined.
CSM works with different types of metal to fulfil bespoke sheet metal fabrication requirements, including:
| Bespoke metal work | Architectural and interiors | Warehouse and material handling |
| Aluminium Stainless steel Mild steel Galvanised steel Copper |
Stainless steel Mild steel Galvanised steel Copper Pewter Zinc Brass |
Stainless steel Mild steel Galvanised steel Aluminium |
Other types of metal, while not as commonly used in sheet metal fabrication, are becoming more popular for different uses.
These include:
To determine which metal products best suit your requirements, consider:
Consider these points with the metal properties and uses outlined above or seek expert advice for your custom sheet metal fabrication needs.
With over 30 years’ experience in sheet metal engineering with quality products, the friendly team at CSM can handle all your sheet metal work needs, from initial consultation through to delivery. Click here for more information on our services or get in touch to chat through your requirements with an expert.