Metal Fabrications in Pascagoula Mississippi transform metal into machines or machine parts. The whole process can involve three different stages. First, the metal plate is cut and shaped into the desired form. Then the separate parts are welded together as needed. Finally, an overlay may be used to apply a hard, corrosion-resistant outer surface. Each process involves its own set of tools and technicians.
Metal fabrication usually begins with a metal sheet or plate. Steel is the most common metal used, with carbon steel (made from pig iron) being the most ubiquitous form of it. There are also many steel alloys, including stainless steel, which is a very popular metal for use in medical equipment or food production. The steel sheet or plate is cut to a specific size and shape by an industrial cutter. Most large metal shops use automated machines like a laser cutter or plasma table. Computer controls allow the user to input the design and sometimes run multiple jobs at the same time. Once the metal is cut to the proper size, another machine bends it into a tube or presses it into a 3D shape.
After individual parts are produced, they need to be welded together. Welding is done by heating the metal so that it melts and two edges can be fused together. (This is different from soldering, a lower-temperature procedure that involves putting a metal filler into a joint to hold it together.) Also known as arc welding, this process entails creating an electric arc between the base metal and an electrode. It is this arc that melts the metal. Depending on the type of welding, a gas may serve as a shield to protect the welding area from contamination.
The overlay is a finishing process, sometimes called cladding or hard facing. An overlay adds a hard outer layer on top of the base material. An overlay is generally added in order to protect the metal from corrosion and to increase its strength. This process is very important for any metal that will be used outdoors and exposed to weather. If you would like to know more about Metal Fabrications in Pascagoula Mississippi, check out website.
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