Historically, sheet metal has been used extensively to produce automotive body panels. Although sheet metal use has decreased with the advent of fiberglass body panels, sheet metal is still the most popular material for manufacturing automobiles today. The addition of lasers and robotics to the automobile manufacturing process has further expanded the way that sheet metal is processed.

Lasers

Lasers have been used in production facilities since the 1960’s. Today, they are used to cut, form holes, engrave, weld or heat treat sheet metal for use in automotive production.

• Lasers are used in applications that rely on precise measurements and exact alignments.