Processes

Assembly and Finishing

The final step in the metal fabrication process is assembly and finishing. This step involves putting the individual parts together and ensuring that they fit together properly and function as the customer intends. Welding may also be necessary at this stage if two or more pieces need to be joined permanently; alternatively adhesives could also be used in certain cases where welding isn't an option (for example, with plastic components).

Here are some of the factors that are considered during the assembly and finishing step:

  • The type of metal being used
  • The desired appearance of the finished product
  • How and where the product will be used
  • The budget for the project

The finishing process involves cleaning, coating, painting, or galvanizing the metal to protect it from corrosion and give it a desired finish. Which specific finishing technique is  used will vary depending on the type of metal and the part’s desired appearance.

Here are some of the most common finishing techniques used in metal fabrication:

  • Painting: Painting is a popular way to protect metal and give it a desired color. Paint can be applied by spraying, brushing, or dipping.
  • Powder coating: Powder coating is a process where a dry powder coating is applied to the metal and then cured in an oven. Powder coating is a durable and long-lasting finish that is resistant to corrosion and abrasion. 
  • Galvanizing: Galvanizing is a process where the metal is coated with a layer of zinc which protects the metal from corrosion and rust.
  • Anodizing: Anodizing is a process where the metal is electrochemically oxidized. This creates a hard, protective layer on the surface of the metal.

At D+M Metal we can do the following in house: 

Metal fabrication - This can include laser cutting, blanking, machining, welding, brake press forming, and bending.  

Grinding - Putting parts through this process wears away any edges and smooths out surfaces that can be rough from processes like blanking and punching.

Vibratory finishing - Metal parts are put in vibratory tumblers with abrasive pellets that remove sharp edges and smooth imperfections for a better finish. 

If the parts need plating, metal finishing, or powder coating, we will send them out to our trusted vendors so our customers receive a finished product without having to shop around and send them to multiple places. 

The assembly and finishing step can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it ensures that the final product is safe, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and meets the customer’s expectations. D+M Metal Products is proud of our ability to provide our customers with a full array of metal fabrication services. Call us today to talk about your next project. 

 

Contact West Michigan's metal forming and welding experts.

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