Sheet metal processing workflow

The process of sheet metal fabrication refers to the gradual change in the shape, dimensions, material properties, assembly, and welding of parts in a certain order until sheet metal components that meet the required shape and dimensions are manufactured. For complex structural components, production and processing typically involve multiple stages such as material preparation, pattern making, cutting, forming, and assembly. Since cold-formed sheet metal fabrication often combines with welding, metal cutting, heat treatment, and inspection, the process flow defines the processing sequence of the parts, with specific processing content guided and controlled by the process specifications.

The process plan is a technical document that outlines the selection of a technically feasible and economically reasonable process after a thorough comprehensive analysis and comparison of several potential process options. This selection is based on the requirements of the product drawings, characteristics of the workpiece, production batches, and the existing equipment and production capacity of the enterprise. The document specifies the blank material for the part, its processing methods, and specific dimensions, as well as the nature, quantity, sequence, and quality requirements of each operation. It also details the type and specifications of equipment used in each process, the type of processing tool for each step; quality requirements, inspection methods, and requirements for each operation.

Generally, the processing techniques involved in all sheet metal parts are not something that can be accomplished by a single blanking and stamping workshop. Many parts may require additional operations such as machining, heat treatment, and surface finishing. Cross-departmental and cross-workshop operations are governed by respective process specifications. However, in different industries, particularly when dealing with sheet metal parts that have low technical processing requirements and complexity, it is often necessary to develop process specifications to guide production.