Sheet Metal Assembly

Our sheet metal assembly team is more than capable.

What Is Metal Assembly?

Metal assembly is the process of joining sheet metal parts together to create a final product. This can involve different methods such as welding, adhesives, rivets, or threaded fasteners. At Precision Machine Fabrication, we offer electro-mechanical assembly services to customers who require a more complete product upon delivery. Our assembly capabilities range from basic to complex, allowing us to customize a project to your assembly needs.

This range of sheet metal assembly methods and our additional fabrication capabilities allows us to customize each project for the exact specifications that are called for. Finally, we can even perform product testing to ensure that the final part of the metal assembly process is working properly before it leaves our facility. As such, our capabilities can be utilized across various industries, making us the one-stop-shop for metal fabrication, assembly, and finishing.

Discover our capabilities of sheet metal assemblies today and send us a message to get started on your next project!

Sheet Metal Assembly Techniques

When it comes to sheet metal assembly, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Instead, there are different methods of sheet metal assemblies welders can choose from in order to create the highest quality product. Deploying different sheet metal assembly techniques allows welders flexibility and options. Since there isn’t one single method for sheet metal assemblies, it’s important welders focus on a technique that considers the functionality, strength, and longevity of the product, as a poorly assembled product won’t last long. Below are various sheet metal assembly techniques and the specific parts they tend to be most commonly used with.

Electro-Mechanical Assembly

The electric-mechanical assembly utilizes both electrical and mechanical procedures. This sheet metal assembly method involves constructing pieces of equipment that control electrical currents. This can include a range of products like a part that operates in a power-enhanced way or a device like a thermostat or a pacemaker. The sheet metal part is precisely fabricated to house the electrical components, ensuring a snug fit within the electro-mechanical assembly.

Image of the inside of an electro-mechanical assembly

front view of a electro-mechanical assembly item

Basic Assembly Operation

Our basic sheet metal assembly services utilize welding and binding methods to combine multiple parts together into a finished product. This is the go-to method for projects that require a strong structure that is long-lasting. This is one of the most frequently used sheet metal assembly techniques and is not the preferred method if the item needs to be disassembled in the future.

Inside view of a basic assembly operation item

external view of a basic assembly operation piece

Large Welded Frames

This type of large-scale sheet metal assembly uses welding to join a number of metal parts together into a frame that can be used in a variety of ways. The welder must inspect the frames for any bends or cracks and ensure it’s extremely durable. This method is most commonly used with MIG (metal inert gas) or TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding.

Complex Bend and Weld

Some projects require more advanced methods of assembly and fabrication — our experienced team knows how to employ these complex strategies effectively. There are several sheet metal assembly methods that allow welders to bend metal. One example for instance is hot bending, which allows the welder to heat up a metal until it’s pliable enough to manipulate. High-frequency electricity can also be deployed to achieve bending. The metal undergoes a certain amount of stress in order to get it to bend, but it does not undergo nearly enough stress to cause it to break.

image of a set of complex bend and weld items

Detailed Weld

Our expert welders can tackle even the smallest and most detailed tasks with precision. One way we can accomplish this is with a brazing and soldering technique, which joins two types of metal together. This method deploys a filler metal that when heated to its melting point, can be used to fuse two metals together. This method is ideal for joining together different types of metal and can be used for everything from electronic parts to jewelry.

alternate close up view of a detailed weldment

Customized Welded & Assembled Cabinets

We can create professional-grade cabinets that are ready for use upon delivery. Cabinets typically require spot welding techniques, which weld together two pieces of sheet metal through the passing of electrodes. This type of welding is not the most permanent but requires less ongoing maintenance when compared to mechanical welding. This sheet metal assembly technique can be used on projects like cabinets, brackets, and orthodontic materials.

Image of a custom welded and assembled cabinet with wheels

Frequently Asked Questions About Sheet Metal Assembly

How long do sheet metal assemblies take?

Sheet metal assembly times vary from project to project. Contact us to give us more information about your project, and we can offer you a more accurate estimate. After assembly is complete, standard shipping should take between 8 – 10 weeks. Expedited deliveries are also available.

What types of assemblies can you perform?

Precision Machine Fabrication can handle many different types of sheet metal assemblies you throw at us. From basic metal assembly operations to complex bending and welding projects, we get the job done perfectly every time. Contact us for custom cabinets, enclosures, frames, and more.

What are some design considerations in sheet metal assembly?

There are many things to consider when designing a sheet metal component. Design considerations for sheet metal assembly and fabrication include:

Component Availability

Sheet metal assembly requires many single-source parts that can’t be substituted. Obtaining a specific part could take weeks, which could bring the process to a halt. Ensuring flexibility and availability for the product is vital.

Standard Components vs. Custom Components

While there are many standard components available that are suitable for many sheet metal assembly products, some projects require a more personalized touch. If your project requires custom components, that will add to the build time, as it will take more time to tailor the components to meet the project’s specifications.

Assembly Size

When it comes to sheet metal assembly, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The scope of your project will determine the resources and materials that go into it. Larger productions require more raw materials, including the specific needs for each metal part, which can increase the cost of your sheet metal assembly project.

Assembly Complexity

Assembly complexity also adds to the estimated time of delivery. In complex assemblies, sub-assembled components require thorough inspection before we install them into the larger assemblage. Quality control is essential, and each sheet metal part is inspected for defects before it is incorporated into the final product.

What are the limitations of sheet metal assembly?

Sheet metal is suitable for many projects because of its durable construction and malleability; however, it does have some drawbacks. Occasionally, manufacturers might find it challenging to source different parts and products due to availability. Sheet metal assembly and production have a slower production rate than other forms of fabrication because of the care and quality control that goes into each project. Complex designs can also get to be expensive.