Metal processing serves as the fundamental stage in metal production, encompassing various fabrication methods such as stamping, pressing, bending, cutting, and roll forming. Every metal production approach incorporates some form of metal processing to reshape flat metal into configurations tailored to specific applications.
Integral to the creation of durable products, metal processing plays a crucial role in engineering and manufacturing parts and components for easy use and fabrication. The extensive array of metal processes ranges from techniques that harden metal for long-lasting use to those that soften metal for enhanced pliability. Each process has been rigorously tested and proven capable of achieving the precise dimensions required for the final product.
An exemplary hardening process is aluminum anodizing, designed to thicken the oxidized layer of aluminum. The inherent oxidization of aluminum upon exposure to air contributes to its popularity, forming a protective oxide layer that shields the metal surface from corrosion, rust, and wear. Anodization enhances the surface by increasing resistance and strength while providing the option for colorization. This electrolytic surface treatment not only hardens the metal but also enhances its non-conductivity and establishes a porous surface for color application.
A notable advancement in metal processing is electrical discharge machining (EDM), utilizing electrical energy to cut, drill, etch, and machine metals with exceptional precision. Employed by CNC machines, EDM offers flexibility, capable of intricate detailing on both hard and soft surfaces.
Various methods are employed to protect metals from environmental factors and stress that may cause wear and damage. Protective processes encompass painting, coating, and the application of specific powdered materials. Electroless nickel plating represents a distinctive metal protection method, depositing a layer of nickel alloy on metal substrates through a chemical process without the need for electricity.
In the realm of electronic equipment and systems, safeguarding against electromagnetic interference (EMI) is paramount. EMI shielding involves the creation of mechanical devices crafted from metals configured to fit electronic equipment housings. The choice of metal varies based on the application’s needs and the desired level of protection.
Heat treatment stands as a common method for processing metals, altering their atomic structure to modify physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. This transformative process involves subjecting the metal to a series of heating and cooling stages. To enhance the longevity and performance of metals, various coatings, including powders, paints, and metals, are applied as thin layers to the substrate. Beyond providing added protection, these coatings can contribute to aesthetic value by introducing tinting and texture.
