Sheet Metal Forming Service
In addition to our flat sheet and tube laser cutting machines, we also offer a range of add-on metal fabrication equipment to provide added value to our customers’ projects. We have added industry knowledge in machining, metal forming and metal finishing to provide customers with a choice of complete metal assemblies.
Metal Forming
Metal forming is an important part of sheet metal fabrication, and Elimold can meet any of your forming needs. We continually invest in state-of-the-art machines, especially those capable of automatically changing their own tools (ATC), which saves our customers time and money. Our metal forming department has experienced operators capable of producing very complex parts to tight tolerances.
Before the forming process begins, our engineering team uses bending simulation technology to validate our process and ensure repeatability. Jobs with multiple parts can be sent to a robotic bending system that enables lights-out automation. Our automated equipment eliminates the costly delays associated with traditional tool changes and test bending so our customers pay the lowest price possible.
Precision metal forming capabilities
Elimold is available in material thicknesses from 0.0001” to 0.125” (0.0025 to 3.175 mm), depending on the desired functionality. As with the chemical etching process, our standard lead time is one week. Expedited delivery time is only one day.
Whether you have complete dimensional drawings or need engineering support, our engineering team can work with you to help design the blanks and tooling you need. We are experts at understanding how to etch and bend parts to their final shape and want to provide fully functional parts so you can start using them right away.
Depending on the type of metal you have and the scope of your project, our team can use one of several metal forming techniques:
- bending machine
- stamping
- forging
- casting
- Roll forming
- extrusion
We use CNC machines along with highly trained computer operators to perform precise, efficient in-house metal bending and forming production cycles.
Because of our ability to store and manage a large inventory of materials, you get everything you need to form metal and steel to your unique specifications in one place.
Advantages of Precision Metal Forming Process
- Speed: Parts can be formed in as little as one day
- Precision: Tolerances can be held as tight as +/- 0.001” (0.025mm)
- Cost: Tooling cost is minimal
- Flexibility: Multi-station tooling allows geometries not otherwise achievable with progressive dies
- Reliability: All parts are made to Fotofab’s exacting quality and craftsmanship standards
- Growth: Short prototype runs can smoothly transition to mass production runs
Sheet Metal Forming Design Guidelines and Capabilities
| Maximum Bend Length | 47 in. |
| Minimum Qualifying Part Size | 0.05 in x 0.05 in (12.7mm x 12.7mm) for formed parts |
| Maximum Pressing Force | 80 tons |
| Bend Angles | 1 degree ‘kick’ to 135 degrees |
| Bending Output | Linear bends—external and internal flanges |
| Maximum U-Channel Ratio | 2:1 (width:height) |
| Internal Radius Tooling Options | 0.01 in. to 1 in. (standard tooling increments) >1 in. radius bends will be bump formed |
| Offsets | Standard offset tooling sizes |
| Hems | Closed hems up to 47 in., open hems up to 36 in. |
| Forming Best Practices |
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Metals We Specialize In
- Carbon
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Stainless Steel
- And more
Common Applications And Industries
Elimold have served numerous industries and catered to various applications. Our diverse range of clients across all regions in the United States trust us because of our dedication to high-quality and precise metalwork. These industries include the following:
- Manufacturing: Structural needs, including industrial-grade platforms, ladders, handrails, and similar structures.
- Construction: Buildings, bridges, warehouses, and facilities in rural and urban settings.
- Energy: Transmission towers, alternative energy sources, and oil and gas pipelines.
Oil and Gas: Oil and gas pipelines and offshore platforms. - Mining: Mining equipment, including lifts, conveyors, and conveyor belts.
Ship construction: Oil rigs, ship parts and components, and offshore construction. - Aerospace: Aircraft components, structural elements, bezels, and chassis
Common Applications of Metal Forming
Metal forming is an effective and cost-efficient production process, so it’s widely used in different sectors. Fortunately, we’re well-versed in their needs and can produce diverse components even with tight tolerances and complex shapes.
Here are some of the most common applications of metal forming:
- Construction Equipment
- HVAC components
- Structural components
- Fittings and frames
- Tracks, rails, and rods
- Metal frames
- Enclosures and housings
- Aircraft components
- Household appliances
- Electronics
- Lighting
- Hardware
Request A Quote for Sheet Metal Forming
In order to provide the most affordable project solutions, we ensure an online instant quotation system to help you make a quick decision. Competitive quotes and quick turnaround times help achieve same-day quotes. Custom metal forming is an important operation for producing custom metal parts and prototypes. With every completed project, we guarantee the highest quality parts, competitive pricing, and quick turnaround on all projects