Lamiera

Lamiera is a flat, thin sheet of metal produced by rolling metal into a sheet. In Italian usage, the term covers a range of metals and alloys used in sheet form, typically steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, and alloys such as brass. Lamiera can be bare or coated for corrosion resistance, with common finishes including galvanized (zinc-coated), painted, lacquered, or polymer-coated. The word derives from lamina, meaning a thin layer or plate.

Thickness varies widely, from roughly 0.3 mm to several millimetres, depending on alloy and application. Lamiera is produced by hot rolling for thicker sheets and cold rolling for precise tolerances and smooth finishes. After rolling, sheets may be annealed to adjust ductility. Surface treatments such as galvanizing, painting, or anodizing impart properties suited to specific uses.

Processing and forming methods include shearing, blanking, punching, bending (press brake), roll forming, and deep drawing. Cutting can be performed with laser, plasma, or waterjet. Common applications span construction (roofing and cladding), automotive panels, appliance enclosures, HVAC ducts, metal furniture, and packaging materials like tinplate.

Lamiera is highly recyclable and plays a central role in metal supply chains. Environmental considerations include energy use in production and coatings that influence recyclability. Safety concerns involve sharp edges and burrs, making proper handling, edge finishing, and the use of protective equipment important in manufacturing and fabrication contexts.