5 Material Options for Sheet Metal Fabrication

Choosing the right material for your sheet metal fabrication project is crucial to ensuring the durability, functionality, and aesthetics of the final product. At Rapid Axis, are industry leaders in sheet metal fabrication services. As such, we offer a range of material options to suit various applications and requirements. 

In this article, we'll discuss five popular materials used in custom sheet metal fabrication — Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Steel, Bronze, and Copper, — and provide insights into the best use cases for each.

Understanding Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal fabrication involves shaping and forming metal sheets into desired shapes and structures through processes such as cutting, bending, and assembling. The  choice of material plays a significant role in determining the performance, cost, and appearance of the fabricated parts. Let's explore the key characteristics and applications of the five materials we offer.

#1 Aluminum

One of the most popular material options for sheet metal fabrication is aluminum. 6061 aluminum sheet metal is easy to source, inexpensive, and relatively easy to work with. 

Characteristics of Aluminum

Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant material that offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It is easy to work with and has a natural oxide layer that protects it from corrosion, making it a popular choice for various applications.

Best Use Cases for Aluminum

Aerospace and Automotive: Ideal for components that require strength without added weight.

Electronics: Used in enclosures and housings due to its excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.

Construction: Commonly used in roofing, cladding, and structural components for its durability and resistance to environmental factors.

#2 Stainless Steel

Another wildly popular sheet metal option is stainless steel. This is heavier and stronger than aluminum, and it can also be more expensive and tougher to work with. 

Characteristics of Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and staining. It is available in various grades, each with specific properties that make it suitable for different applications.

Best Use Cases for Stainless Steel

Food and Beverage Industry: Ideal for kitchen equipment, countertops, and processing equipment due to its hygienic properties.

Medical Devices: Used in surgical instruments and medical equipment for its biocompatibility and ease of sterilization.

Construction: Used in structural components, railings, and cladding for its strength and aesthetic appeal.

#3 Steel

Also called carbon steel, standard steel sheet metal has the same power as stainless steel, without the added corrosion resistance. As a result, we’d suggest either powder coating your steel parts, or only using these parts in environmentally-controlled places. 

Characteristics of Steel

Steel is a versatile material known for its high strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It is available in various forms, including carbon steel, alloy steel, and galvanized steel, each suited for different applications.

Best Use Cases for Steel

Construction and Infrastructure: Widely used in beams, columns, and reinforcing bars for its strength and durability.

Automotive Industry: Used in the manufacturing of car bodies, frames, and engine components for its robustness and cost-effectiveness.

Manufacturing and Machinery: Used in the production of heavy machinery, tools, and industrial equipment for its toughness and wear resistance.

#4 Bronze

Bronze is a less common option, but our team at Rapid Axis has created multiple assemblies out of bent bronze. This option is used largely in marine applications, since bronze is really corrosion resistant by nature.

Characteristics of Bronze

Bronze is an alloy primarily composed of copper and tin, known for its excellent wear resistance, low friction, and attractive appearance. It is also resistant to corrosion, particularly from seawater, making it suitable for specific applications.

Best Use Cases for Bronze

Marine Applications: Used in ship fittings, propellers, and submerged parts due to its resistance to corrosion by seawater.

Bearings and Bushings: Ideal for components that experience high wear and need low friction.

Art and Decor: Popular for sculptures, plaques, and decorative elements for its aesthetic appeal and durability.

#5 Copper

Finally, you might consider using copper. Copper sheet metal is a fantastic choice if you need an electrically conductive material, or if you need an antimicrobial plate. As a result, you’ll see copper used in medical equipment and electrical connectors all the time. 

Characteristics of Copper

Copper is a highly conductive material with excellent thermal and electrical properties. It is also resistant to corrosion and has antimicrobial properties, making it suitable for various applications.

Best Use Cases for Copper

Electrical Applications: Widely used in wiring, connectors, and circuit boards due to its superior conductivity.

Plumbing: Preferred for pipes and fittings because of its corrosion resistance and ease of forming.

Architectural Elements: Used in roofing, gutters, and decorative features for its aesthetic appeal and longevity.

Rapid Axis Handles Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication Projects

Choosing the right material for your sheet metal fabrication project is essential to achieving the desired performance, durability, and aesthetics. At Rapid Axis, we offer a wide range of materials, including Aluminum, Bronze, Copper, Stainless Steel, and Steel, each with unique properties and applications. Our custom sheet metal fabrication services ensure that you get the best material suited for your specific needs, backed by our expertise and commitment to quality. 

Contact Rapid Axis today to learn more about our sheet metal fabrication services and how we can help you select the ideal material for your project.