sheetmetal

Sheet metal refers to metal that has been formed into thin, flat pieces by rolling and other forming processes. The thickness is typically less than 6 millimeters, and in common practice ranges roughly from 0.3 to 6 mm, depending on material and application. Metals used include steel (both carbon and stainless), aluminum, copper, brass, titanium, and nickel alloys. The formability of sheet metal makes it suitable for shaping, cutting, bending, and joining into complex components.

Key properties depend on the base metal and alloy. Sheet metal can offer good strength-to-weight ratios, ductility, and formability, along with corrosion resistance when appropriately alloyed or coated. It is conductive to heat and electricity in many cases, and is weldable, rivetable, and bondable by various joining methods. The surface finish can be enhanced by coatings, painting, powder coating, galvanizing, or anodizing.

Manufacturing processes: raw metal stock is reduced to a flat sheet by rolling. The sheet is then cut to size by shearing, laser or plasma cutting, or punching. Forming operations include bending, flanging, roll forming, deep drawing, and stamping to create complex geometries. Finishing steps may include deburring, surface treatment, and protective coatings.

Applications: sheet metal is widely used in construction (ductwork, roofing, enclosures), automotive panels, appliance enclosures, consumer electronics housings, cookware, and architectural cladding.

Recycling: sheet metal is highly recyclable and retains material value after recycling. Standards for thickness tolerances and applicable alloys are maintained by industry organizations such as ASTM and ISO.