Sheet Metal Manufacturing Blog

Practical insights, technical guides and industry knowledge to help you design better parts and manufacture with confidence.

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Fabrication

Cutting, bending, welding and assembly processes.

CNC

CNC machining, milling, turning and best practices.

Enclosures

Design and manufacturing of metal enclosures.

Materials

Metals, alloys and material selection guides.

Finishing

Surface treatment, coating and finishing options.

DFM

Design for manufacturability tips and guidelines.

Applications

Real-world applications across different industries.

Latest Manufacturing Articles

In-depth guides to help you make better design and manufacturing decisions.

Laser Etching vs Engraving

Laser Etching vs Laser Engraving: What Is the Difference?

Laser etching and laser engraving are distinct processes that create markings on materials. Etching involves melting the surface to create raised marks, while engraving cuts deeper into the material to remove layers. Each technique has its advantages and is suited for different applications.

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first article inspection template

First Article Inspection: What You Need to Know

FAI thoroughly examines the first piece produced in a manufacturing run. It ensures that the part meets all specifications before total production begins. This process catches potential issues early, preventing costly mistakes and ensuring consistent quality throughout production.

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Slot Milling

What is Slot Milling? Definitions, Types, and Tips

Slot milling is a precise machining technique that creates narrow channels or grooves in a workpiece. This process uses rotating cutting tools to remove material along a specific path. The resulting slots can vary in depth, width, and shape depending on the project requirements.

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end mill

End Milling: A Comprehensive Guide

End milling is a cutting process that uses rotating tools to remove material from a workpiece. They come in various types, each designed for specific applications. From roughing to finishing, these tools can handle various materials and create complex shapes with high precision.

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reamed hole

Reaming Holes: Techniques, Tools, and Tips

Reaming is a metal cutting process that enlarges and refines existing holes. It uses a rotating cutting tool called a reamer to remove small amounts of material, resulting in a more accurate hole size and improved surface finish.

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rough cnc

CNC Roughing Guide: Toolpaths, Stock Allowance, and Cost

CNC roughing is the initial machining stage designed to rapidly remove the bulk of excess material from a raw workpiece. It utilizes high feed rates and deep cuts to quickly establish the basic part geometry before transitioning to precise semi-finishing and finishing operations.

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tool and die

What Is Tool and Die Manufacturing: A Comprehensive Guide

Tool and die manufacturing involves creating precision tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures used in mass production. These components are essential for shaping, cutting, and forming materials like metal, plastic, and rubber into finished products. The process requires high skill, attention to detail, and advanced technology.

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how to sand stainless steel

Sanding Stainless Steel: Techniques, Tools, and Tips

Sanding stainless steel requires the right tools and techniques. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits. Always sand in one direction, following the grain of the metal. Use a sanding block for flat surfaces, and consider a power sander for larger projects.

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