Why Laser Cutting Is Best for Sheet Metal Fabrication

Why Laser Cutting Is Best for Sheet Metal Fabrication

Why Laser Cutting Is Best for Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal fabrication may involve bending, rolling, welding, stamping, or punching through a variety of metals. But it most often requires cutting sheet metal into different lengths, shapes, and sizes. Laser cutting stands as the superior choice because of its precision, speed, efficiency, and ability to perform while generating a minimum of waste. Laser cutting has been fine-tuned over the years to meet the evolving needs of various industries. Investing in laser cutting technology is a prudent decision for any [...]

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Reasons Why Press Brake Tooling Is Important

Reasons Why Press Brake Tooling Is Important

Press brake tooling plays a pivotal role in any metalworking shop. It is the cornerstone of precision sheet metal fabrication, providing the necessary force and shape to bend and form sheet metal into desired configurations. Consider several reasons why press brake tooling is important, reviewing the materials used and essential punches and dies as well as solutions for long sheet metal. What Is Press Brake Tooling Press brake tooling refers to specific interchangeable parts used in a press brake to bend [...]

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What You Should Know About Press Brake Crowning

What You Should Know About Press Brake Crowning

When working with press brakes, you must understand certain key concepts and techniques, one of which is press brake crowning. Here’s what you should know about press brake crowning, its effects, how to prevent it, ways to compensate for it, and the importance of maintaining your crowning system. What Is Crowning in Press Brakes? Crowning in press brakes refers to the undesirable bending or bowing that occurs in the ram and bed of a press brake during the bending process. The [...]

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5 Applications for Hydraulic Press Brakes

5 Applications for Hydraulic Press Brakes

The versatility and precision of hydraulic press brakes make them indispensable in numerous industries. Explore five applications for hydraulic press brakes to understand their wide-ranging capabilities. What Is A Hydraulic Press Brake? A hydraulic press brake is a type of machine in the metalworking industry that bends metal sheets and plates. The machine uses hydraulic pressure to force a punch (upper die) into a V-shaped die (lower die) and create bends in the metal, often with computerized controls (computer numeric control, [...]

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Hydraulics 101: A Guide to Pressurized Fluid Systems

Hydraulics 101: A Guide to Pressurized Fluid Systems

Hydraulics are essential aspects of engineering that involve the mechanical properties and use of liquids. This “hydraulics 101” guide to pressurized fluid systems will provide a refresher on the concepts, principles, and applications of hydraulic systems in a practical manner. What Are Hydraulic Systems? Hydraulic systems, also known as pressurized fluid systems, use fluids (typically oils) under pressure to generate, control, or transmit power. They can be as simple as a car jack or as complex as the system that powers [...]

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Mistakes To Avoid When Using a Robotic Plasma Cutter

Mistakes To Avoid When Using a Robotic Plasma Cutter

Robots are known for their precision and consistency, outperforming humans in tasks requiring meticulous detail and accuracy. However, when using a robot, people need to remember that the machine is only as good as the data it's fed. People make mistakes, and incorrect data, inaccurate measurements, or improper settings can lead to errors. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using a robotic plasma cutter. Improper Torch Assembly and Cleaning A properly assembled and clean torch is essential for a [...]

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How Often Should You Inspect Your Press Brake?

How Often Should You Inspect Your Press Brake?

Press brakes are the backbone of many manufacturing operations, providing the precision and power required for a variety of metal fabrication processes. Ensuring their performance is vital for productivity. One question that arises is, "How often should I inspect my press brake?" The answer largely depends on the type of press brake and its use. We’ll share general guidelines to help you keep your machine in top shape. Daily Checklist Every day before starting operations, quickly inspect your press brake. Check [...]

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4 Differences Between CO2 and Fiber Laser Cutting Technology

4 Differences Between CO2 and Fiber Laser Cutting Technology

These four differences between CO2 and fiber laser cutting technology can significantly impact the efficiency, cost, and quality of your operations. Learn more about these key differences to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs. Type and Thickness of Materials The type and thickness of materials that each technology can handle may be the most important difference that impacts your decision about which type of machine to use. If you routinely cut or mark both metals [...]

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Three Reasons To Use Flat Sheet Laser Cutting

Three Reasons To Use Flat Sheet Laser Cutting

As advancements in technology continue to revolutionize the manufacturing industry, one method stands out for its efficiency and versatility: flat sheet laser cutting. Consider three reasons to use flat sheet laser cutting for your metal fabrication needs. A Refresher on How Laser Cutters Work on Metal Laser cutting employs a high-powered laser beam that precisely cuts the material. The beam's heat causes the metal to vaporize, resulting in a clean, smooth cut. This technology is particularly effective on flat sheet metal, [...]

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9 Cost-Saving Practices for Your Metal Fabrication Shop

9 Cost-Saving Practices for Your Metal Fabrication Shop

As is the case with any business, adopting cost-saving practices helps ensure profitability and keeps prices attractive to clients. Successful cost management does not hinge on dramatic cuts but rather on continuous improvement and minor changes that accumulate over time. These nine cost-saving practices for your metal fabrication shop are efficiency-boosting methods that hold value for both seasoned veterans in the business and newcomers starting their first shop. Some cost-saving methods are relatively easy and inexpensive to make, while others, [...]

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