Sometimes it can be difficult to know what tools to choose or materials to use when starting a new metalworking project. But choosing the correct items can be very important for successfully completing your work, so let’s talk about some of the basics of choosing what you need.
Choosing the metal you want to use like aluminum, steel, or stainless steel is probably your first step. These are the most common materials used for metalworking projects and of these, aluminum is the most expensive but also the most lightweight. You may choose aluminum for its low oxidation rate and the tarnish that creates a worn look that some people enjoy. It can be the easiest to cut through but also the hardest to weld. Steel is heavy-duty and made up of iron and carbon. It’s known for its strength and it can be magnetized so it could be useful for certain projects. It can be easier to weld but needs to be treated to prevent rusting. Stainless steel is created by chromium being added to steel. It is hard, resistant to oxidation, and won’t rust. It’s common to use this type of metal in silverware, cookware, and car parts.
Once you have chosen the metal you want to work with, you need to choose your metal stock. This is usually available in rods, bars, tubes, or sheets and the stock you choose determines the tools you’ll need. You would need very different tools for a bar of aluminum than you would for a sheet.
You need to choose a machine to do your job, now. Do you require a press or a saw? Consider things like how much tonnage does your project require, do you need to electronically adjust the pressure, and does the machine need to maintain the force of tonnage or be able to quickly release it? These considerations are specific to needing a press, of course, but they will help you decide what route to take when choosing. If you’re looking for a saw, consider how thick the metal is that you want to cut, how much control over the machine you require, and how many pieces you want to make. There are options like horizontal bandsaws, vertical bandsaws, and cold saws. Knowing exactly what you want to do will help you choose the machine you need.
If you are looking for the right tools that will last for years to come, make sure to visit the KAMA website and check out our selection of top quality tools for all of your metalworking needs.
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