Sheet metal fabrication is a handy set of manufacturing processes used to create parts from flat pieces of metal. Sheet metal comes in a range of materials and thicknesses, and can be used to create parts like appliances, enclosures, brackets, panels and chassis.

For those new to sheet metal fabrication, the process can seem daunting. Unlike versatile processes such as 3D printing and CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication is dictated by fairly strict design conventions. Sheet metal must be bent and cut in particular ways, and is only suitable for certain parts and products.

As such, it is important to learn some basic principles of sheet metal fabrication before embarking upon a project. Courtesy of rapid prototyping specialist 3ERP, thi