Guide To Selecting A Metal Alloy For Your Fabrication Project
Custom fabrication is one of the most sought after techniques for a myriad of projects due to the high flexibility that it offers. However, a mistake that some people make is presuming that all they need to do is choose a budget-friendly metal for their project and the process of custom fabrication can be underway, but this is the wrong way to go about this. One essential step that requires a significant consideration is your choice of metal.
Alloys are the best types of metals for fabrication, as they tend to offer attributes hard to come by from the pure form of the metal. For instance, rust-resistant and enhanced malleability without compromising on structural integrity are a couple of the advantages you will reap when you opt for an alloy for fabrication. So which type will be suited to your particular project? Here is an easy guide to selecting a metal alloy for your fabrication project.
What degree of performance do you expect from the fabricated product?
Before you decide on what metal alloy should be utilised for your fabrication needs, it is critical to ask yourself what performance you expect from the final product. For instance, if the final product is going to be employed for load-bearing purposes, you should opt for the strongest alloy available to ensure the fabrication product does not succumb to the weight that it is exposed to. On the other hand, if the fabricated product is going to be utilised in a corrosive environment, such as for marine applications, you should consider whether you want an alloy resistant to these conditions or if you are willing to invest in a coating for the final product.
How durable do you want the fabricated product?
The second consideration that should be in mind when deliberating on metal alloys for your fabrication project is the durability you expect from the final product. Durability is especially critical as the product is going to be installed in hard to reach areas that would make it challenging to engage in routine maintenance. For example, if you are fabricating metal rafters for construction purposes, durability should be a deciding factor when selecting the right alloy for fabrication.
Which metal alloys should you consider for your project?
While there are multiple types of alloys available, a few are commonly employed in custom fabrication due to the advantages they offer. Steel, for example, is easy to work with due to its high malleability, making it ideal for bending and welding. Stainless steel is popular due to its rust resistance and high tensile strength, making it ideal if the fabricated product requires performance for its application.
