Sheet metal forming converts a flat sheet of metal into a shaped panel for use in a wide variety of applications. Sheet metal forming creates metal roofing panels, automotive body panels, aluminum drinking cans, and a wide variety of other metal products and components.

The sheet metal forming process occurs in many different ways, using an array of machinery and custom treatments such as the application of heat or chemicals.

The Bending Process of Sheet Metal Forming

One of the most common forms of sheet metal forming is the bending process. This process utilizes a special machine called a Press Brake or Bending Press. The machine is fitted with a specially formed tray receptacle that accepts the upper portion of the machine that is moveable.

The flat panel sheet metal is fed into the Press Brake, and the upper portion of the press is lowered into the receptacle tray either manually or automatically resulting in a bend in the metal. Different receptacle trays create different bends at various angles for each application. If performed automatically, the Press Brake method of sheet metal forming can produce high volumes of desired products in a short period.

The Drawing Method of Sheet Metal Forming

Drawing is performed with the aid of special components called dies or punches. These specially shaped tools are used to force the flat panel of sheet metal into molding around the die by pushing the die through the flat sheet. Some drawing processes apply heat to the flat panel sheet metal to aid in the process.

Incremental Sheet Forming

Another popular method of sheet metal forming is incremental sheet forming. This process uses a small tool with a rounded tip to make gradual, or incremental, alterations in the flat sheet of metal. This tool can be fitted to a CNC machine to provide for precise and automated alterations to the sheet metal.

Precision Metal Stamping

Precision metal stamping is a sheet metal forming process used to create intricate and small metal products. This process is often used in creating medical devices. Precision metal stamping creates complex designs by pushing and pulling the sheet metal around a set of specially created dies, stamps, or punches.

Roll Forming

Roll forming is a sheet metal forming process that utilizes a series of specially designed heavy rollers to create a desired formed metal product. The sheet metal is drawn between the rolls, creating alterations in the thickness and shape of the sheet metal according to the shapes of the rollers.

Sheet metal forming is accomplished in many ways, but the end result is a flat sheet of metal transformed into a solid shaped panel suitable for use in industries such as auto, home construction, architectural design, and food packaging.