What is sheet metal used for?

Sheet metal is a material commonly used in manufacturing in a number of industries. There are several kinds of sheet metals, each with its own features that make it suitable for particular uses.

What is sheet metal?

Sheet metal, as the name suggests, is metal formed into thin sheets. The exact thickness varies, but usually, after sheet metal fabrication has taken place, the metal is between 0.5 – 6mm thick. However, this is more of a general guide, and often during sheet metal fabrication, the thickness is designated by a gauge rather than in millimetres or inches. Each metal uses a slightly different gauge system to state its thickness.

Types of sheet metal

Carbon steel sheet is a versatile form of sheet metal that can be used when there are no concerns about corrosion or when the sheet metal will go through a coating process. It is widely used due to its strength and relative affordability, with uses ranging from car bodies to street signs.

Galvanised steel sheet is another form of carbon steel sheet metal. It has gone through a galvanising process to be coated with zinc oxide to protect against rusting. This allows it to be used in automotive parts and objects that may be exposed to water, such as buckets, marine vessels and irrigation pipes.

Stainless steel sheet is a more expensive sheet metal. However, the additional alloying elements help it resist corrosion. This allows it to be used in critical applications such as aerospace engine components, pharmaceutical processing equipment, and food handling equipment. Its aesthetic appeals also make it a popular choice for signage.

Aluminium sheet is about a third of the density of steel, so is a popular choice when weight is a concern. As well as being lightweight, it is fairly resistant to corrosion, so can be used in boat components, aerospace parts, and marine structures.

Copper sheet is known for its aesthetic appeal and malleability, so is commonly used in artwork and home décor. It is also a good electricity conductor, ideal for some types of battery systems.