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A Variety of Tools Used in Sheet Metal Manufacturing in Seattle

In approaching sheet metal manufacturing in Seattle, Washington, it is important to understand that a variety of different types of processes and equipment are often used. An experienced sheet metal manufacturing shop in Seattle will be able to provide a diverse array of processes in order to meet the needs of the customer. While many of the processes used for sheet metal manufacturing in Seattle will involve large machinery, a variety of small tools and equipment will also prove to be important in any sheet metal manufacturing shop.

Hand shears, also known as aviation snips, provide a manual method for cutting metal. Regardless of the number of large tools available in a fabrication shop, fabricators will still often need to use hand shears.

Power shears are also commonly used for sheet metal manufacturing in Seattle. With power shears, fabricators are able to cut sheet metal quickly without the need to apply a lot of manual effort. A variety of different type of power shears may be used, including electric shears and pneumatic shears. Power shears are not typically the best tools for cutting tight corners and intricate shapes. This is why specialized throat less power shears may be used in order to cut tighter radii.

Throatless shears, also sometimes referred to as nibblers, are designed to allow operators to cut metal in various shapes and straight lines without marring the cutting edge. A hinged blade is often used in order to cut metal positioned on a stationary table. Compared to power shears, which often waste material during the cutting process, throatless shears do not usually waste material while cutting sheet metal. Bench-mounted throatless sheers are also available and can be used for cutting sheet metal up to 14 gauge.

Angle grinders are also commonly used in sheet metal manufacturing in Seattle. An attached wheel or disc spins at a fast rate, making it possible to remove excess material quickly. Fabricators may also use plasma cutters when the project calls for aggressive cutting and precise accuracy. These types of cutters are often a preferred choice when long, straight cuts need to be made that might be difficult to handle with just a throatless shear.