Metal is used in various industries like construction, automotive, aerospace, mining, and energy. Like any other material used in the market, metals also evolve in the form to adjust to the evolving needs of the different industries.

Sheet metal has been proven to be useful in modern-day industries. Their shape, weight, and size make it easier to mould and shape metal into various forms that suit your needs.

What is sheet metal?

Sheet metal is metal that has gone through an industrial process of cutting it into thin sheets. Therefore, it can be easily fabricated and moulded into different shapes and forms for easy use in any industry. There are also varying widths and sizes made for different purposes ranging from construction to electronics.

The varying widths of the metal sheets are also categorised by the type of material they are made from. So aluminium, galvanised, copper, and other metals have different gauges for their thicknesses.

How can sheet metal be used?

Because there are many types of metal sheets, they naturally have their unique uses.

• Carbon steel sheets. Carbon steel is usually used for general fabrication purposes, especially if no special circumstances surround the use of carbon steel metals. This type of metal is a usual recommendation from metalsmiths, where there is no concern for corrosion and the need for additional metal coating. Carbon steel is also more affordable and has better malleability than copper or aluminium.

• Galvanised steel sheets. Galvanised steel means that the medal has undergone a galvanising process, where the metal is coated with zinc oxide to prevent rusting. This type of steel is recommended for the metal used outdoors or exposed to different substances like oil or lubricants. Galvanised sheets are often used for automotive or shipbuilding parts, and pipes are used in agriculture like greenhouses.

• Stainless steel sheets. This sheet type is more costly than carbon or galvanised steel because of its alloy composition. The alloy component in stainless steel prevents it from being easily eroded when exposed to the elements. It is why it is the go-to material for aerospace industry needs, marine vessels and structures, and food industry equipment.

• Aluminium sheets. A metal less dense than steel, this type of metal is often used when weight is a factor in planning metal design. In addition, aluminium is lightweight and is relatively resistant to rusting and corrosion. This is why aluminium is frequently used for kitchenware and vehicle parts of any kind, whether marine, air, or land vehicles.

• Copper sheets. Aside from being good electrical conductors, copper is also used for decorations because of its aesthetic visuals. It is also very malleable and is often used by metal sculptors.

There are a wide variety of uses by different types of metal sheets. In addition, different industries use them for different purposes, so it is no question that this type of metal is very versatile and useful, no matter the material. Therefore, it is always helpful to ask metalworks experts for their recommendations on the type of metal to use for your convenience.