Benefits of using different types of metals for fabrication

Every metal part that requires custom fabrication comes with a variety of metal types to choose from – and each has unique advantages and setbacks. From carbon steel and stainless steel, to aluminium and copper, here are a few things that each metal type offers.

CARBON STEEL
Carbon steel is a popular choice for metal fabrication as it is affordable, durable and versatile. Carbon steel is thick, heavy and inexpensive, which means it will often be the most sensible choice for applications requiring large amounts of metal. Carbon steel is tough enough to serve for products that you may subject to tough conditions, such as ducts, tanks or structural applications. Low carbon steel is pliable, so it works well with metal fabrication processes. It’s important to galvanise or otherwise coat carbon steel products to protect them from corrosion.

STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless steel has a high chromium content (over 10.5 percent, typically). The main benefit is that it does not rust, so there is no galvanising required. In other respects, it is just as effective as carbon steel. Naturally, because of its corrosion-resistant properties, it is more expensive than carbon steel, so industries usually reserve it for situations where non-corrosive metal is crucial, such as marine applications.

ALUMINUM
Aluminum fabrication is a popular alternative to stainless steel. It is corrosion-resistant, flexible, lightweight, and requires little maintenance. Like stainless steel, aluminum resists corrosion and, as a rule of thumb, is generally more resilient in this regard than all but the most expensive stainless steels. It is popularly used in the aerospace and automotive industries, where keeping weight low is a priority.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT METAL FOR YOUR PROJECT WITH LASER CENTRAL
Whichever metal is appropriate for your metal fabrication job, we can help. Let us know your specifications and requirements, and we are more than happy to supply you with what would suit you best.