Sheet Metal Fabrication Services

Frigate utilizes CNC punching, laser cutting, and bending for precise sheet metal fabrication. Our team applies high-tolerance methods, including MIG and TIG welding, for durable, custom parts. 

What We Do

Precision Cutting Methods

We ensure precision in sheet metal parts with our integrated end-to-end process, utilizing advanced cutting technologies like laser, plasma, and waterjet for superior accuracy and material optimization. 

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Empowering Industries with Precision Engineering

Innovative Sheet Metal Techniques for Aerospace Components

Lightweight design, strength, and exacting standards are crucial in aerospace components. Sheet metal fabrication is the solution with high-accuracy processes like CNC punching, laser cutting, and bending. These techniques create complex geometries with tight tolerances, ensuring reliable quality and performance. Advanced welding methods like TIG and MIG welding improve strength and durability. Lightweight metals such as aluminum and titanium are used to optimize weight without sacrificing structural integrity. Customization allows for producing specialized parts that meet strict aerospace requirements, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and part performance. 

Our Clients

Our Business Verticals

Automotive

Aerospace

Energy Sector

Defense

Electrical

Healthcare

Construction

Agricultural

Maximizing Performance and Efficiency with Advanced Metallurgical Process Integration

Frigate integrates advanced metallurgical processes like powder metallurgy and electron beam welding into sheet metal fabrication for high-performance components. These processes are precisely controlled to ensure consistent material properties and mechanical integrity. Real-time process monitoring and automation help minimize energy use and optimize cycle times, enabling efficient aerospace and defense parts production. The integration of these technologies ensures that performance standards are met without compromising production efficiency. 

Ensuring Precision and Reliability in Complex, Multi-Material Assemblies

Frigate achieves sub-micron tolerances in multi-material assemblies through advanced manufacturing systems. Techniques like AI-driven quality control and micro-milling ensure precise fabrication across complex geometries and materials. These methods maintain the required material integrity and structural performance. The seamless integration of these technologies allows for producing complex aerospace and automotive components with exacting precision and reliability. 

Improving Production Efficiency with Predictive Analytics in Multi-Technology Environments

Frigate utilizes predictive analytics and machine learning to manage multi-stage, multi-technology sheet metal fabrication processes. By optimizing throughput and reducing downtime, these technologies improve production efficiency. Predictive tools help anticipate and address potential issues, ensuring the smooth integration of techniques like additive manufacturing, subtractive machining, and hybrid welding. This results in enhanced production timelines and consistent, high-quality output. 

Our Sheet Metal Fabrication Process

Laser or Waterjet Profiling

High-precision laser or waterjet cutting is used for intricate designs, providing tight tolerances and complex shapes while minimizing material wastage. 

CNC Punching and Stamping

Advanced CNC punching machines or stamping presses produce high-volume parts with intricate hole patterns or embossments, achieving consistent repeatability and accuracy. 

3D Forming & Deep Drawing

Advanced 3D forming processes, such as hydroforming or deep drawing, shape sheet metal into deep, complex geometries that cannot be achieved by traditional bending or stamping alone. 

Automated Robotic Welding

Robotics-driven welding, such as MIG or TIG, ensures consistent weld quality, reduces labor costs, and speeds up production, particularly for large runs or intricate assemblies. 

Precision Bending with Minimal Springback

Computer-controlled press brakes calibrated for material-specific bending parameters help achieve precise bends with minimal springback, ensuring accurate part dimensions. 

Surface Treatment via Electropolishing or PVD Coating

Post-fabrication processes like electropolishing or Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating enhance the surface finish, improve corrosion resistance, and increase the part's aesthetic appeal without compromising its functionality. 

Sheet Metal Fabrication Materials

Sheet metal fabrication uses various materials, each with unique properties suited for specific applications. Selecting the right material is crucial for ensuring performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness, from lightweight aluminum alloys in aerospace to high-strength titanium in military applications. 

Aluminum Alloys (e.g., 5052, 6061)

Aluminum alloys like 5052 and 6061 are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and offer a high strength-to-weight ratio. They provide excellent formability and weldability, making them ideal for aerospace, automotive, and marine applications. These alloys also perform well under high and low temperatures and can be anodized for enhanced durability. 

Stainless Steel (e.g., 304, 316)

Stainless steel alloys like 304 and 316 offer superior resistance to corrosion and high temperatures. 304 provides balanced strength and workability, while 316, with its molybdenum content, excels in harsh environments like marine and chemical processing. This material is ideal for high-performance applications requiring durability and hygiene. 

Mild Steel (Low Carbon Steel, e.g., A36)

Mild steel, such as ASTM A36, is easy to fabricate and offers good weldability and formability. It is widely used in construction and automotive industries. While less corrosion-resistant than stainless steel, it can be treated with galvanized coatings for enhanced durability in exposed environments. 

Copper and Copper Alloys (e.g., C110, C17200)

Copper is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, ideal for electrical components and heat exchangers. Copper alloys like C110 are used for power transmission, while C17200 (beryllium copper) is known for its high strength and fatigue resistance, which makes it ideal for precision mechanical parts. 

Brass (e.g., C36000)

Brass, a copper-zinc alloy, is highly machinable and offers good corrosion resistance. C36000 brass is commonly used for electrical connectors and fittings. It also provides excellent low-friction properties, making it suitable for gears, valves, and pumps. 

Titanium Alloys (e.g., Ti-6Al-4V)

Titanium alloys, such as Ti-6Al-4V, are known for their low weight and strength and exceptional corrosion resistance. Due to their performance at high temperatures and extreme conditions, these alloys are ideal for aerospace and military applications. Titanium is also biocompatible, making it suitable for medical implants. 

Galvanized Steel (e.g., G90)

Coated with zinc, galvanized steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications. The G90 specification indicates a robust zinc coating, ensuring durability in harsh environments. It is commonly used in automotive parts, HVAC systems, and agricultural machinery. 

Nickel Alloys (e.g., Inconel 625, Monel 400)

Nickel alloys like Inconel 625 and Monel 400 offer exceptional heat and corrosion resistance. Inconel 625 is used in high-temperature applications such as turbines, while Monel 400 resists seawater corrosion, making it ideal for marine propulsion systems and oil drilling equipment. 

Tool Steel (e.g., D2, O1)

Tool steel, such as D2 and O1, is used for manufacturing cutting tools, dies, and molds. D2 provides high wear resistance, which is ideal for precision cutting. At the same time, O1 is valued for its toughness and ease of heat treatment, making it suitable for mold and die production in sheet metal fabrication. 

Frigate Approach

Efficient Compliance with Regulatory and Certification Standards

Frigate ensures compliance with AS9100 and ISO 9001 by integrating streamlined quality control processes. These processes provide real-time traceability and material validation throughout production. Automated tracking systems monitor every stage, ensuring adherence to certification requirements. Comprehensive documentation practices support transparency and maintain accuracy across all stages. This approach enables Frigate to swiftly adapt to regulatory changes while preserving fast production timelines and consistent quality. 

Compliance for Sheet Metal Fabrication Services

Compliance with industry standards is essential for delivering high-quality sheet metal fabrication services. We adhere to stringent regulations and certifications to maintain operational excellence and meet the specific requirements of each project. Our processes are designed to meet safety, environmental, and material-specific standards, ensuring the integrity and performance of every fabricated component. 

Key Compliance for Sheet Metal Fabrication Services

ISO 9001:2015

Quality management systems ensuring consistent product quality and continuous improvement.

ISO 14001:2015

Environmental management standards aimed at reducing waste and energy consumption. 

AWS D1.1:2020

American Welding Society standards for welding quality and procedures, ensuring precise and reliable welds.

RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU

Restriction of Hazardous Substances compliance, ensuring products are free of harmful materials. 

ASTM A36/A36M-14

Standard specifications for carbon structural steel, ensuring structural integrity and reliability. 

UL 94

Underwriters Laboratories certification for flammability of plastic materials used in electrical and electronic components. 

Tolerance for Sheet Metal Fabrication Services

Material Thickness
±0.005” (0.13 mm) to ±0.020” (0.51 mm)

Variations in thickness depending on the material and processing method. 

Hole Diameter (Small)
±0.002” (0.05 mm) to ±0.010” (0.25 mm)

Precision for small holes, typically achieved via laser cutting or punching. 

Hole Diameter (Large)
±0.005” (0.13 mm) to ±0.020” (0.51 mm)

Tolerances for larger holes can vary based on the cutting method. 

Slot Length
±0.005” (0.13 mm) to ±0.020” (0.51 mm)

Precision for slots cut in sheet metal, dependent on the cutting method. 

Hole Location (X/Y)
±0.005” (0.13 mm) to ±0.030” (0.76 mm)

Accurate location of holes along the X and Y axes for assembly fit. 

Edge Deviation (Shearing)
±0.010” (0.25 mm) to ±0.050” (1.27 mm)

Tolerance for edges after shearing, ensuring no burrs or defects. 

Bend Allowance
±0.010” (0.25 mm) to ±0.020” (0.51 mm) per bend

The allowance for material stretching during bending, influencing final dimensions. 

Bend Angle Accuracy
±1° to ±2°

Control over bend angles to ensure correct fitment during assembly. 

Twist (Warp)
±0.010” (0.25 mm) to ±0.020” (0.51 mm) per ft

Tolerance on the overall twist of the part, usually a result of thermal processes. 

Flatness (Tolerances per ft)
±0.005” (0.13 mm) to ±0.020” (0.51 mm) per ft

Flatness measured after forming, ensuring part stability during assembly. 

Parallelism
±0.010” (0.25 mm) to ±0.050” (1.27 mm)

The tolerance in parallelism between two surfaces for assembly precision. 

Surface Roughness (Ra)
32 μin to 125 μin (0.8 µm to 3.2 µm)

Tolerance for surface finish affecting appearance and performance. 

Thickness Variation (Across Sheet)
±0.010” (0.25 mm) to ±0.030” (0.76 mm)

Consistency in material thickness across the sheet, influencing strength and precision. 

Corner Radius
±0.005” (0.13 mm) to ±0.020” (0.51 mm)

Precision of corner radii, particularly important for stress distribution. 

Quality Testing Standards for Sheet Metal Fabrication Services

Springback
Springback Test (Bend Test)

Measures the tendency of the material to return to its original shape after bending, affecting final part geometry. 

Ductility
Elongation Test

Evaluates the material's ability to deform under tensile stress without breaking, essential for forming operations. 

Tear Resistance
Tear Test

Assesses the material's resistance to tearing under stress, ensuring durability during manufacturing processes. 

Shear Strength
Shear Test

Measures the material's ability to resist forces that can cause shearing, crucial for cutting operations. 

Flammability
Flammability Testing (UL 94 or ASTM E84)

Tests material's resistance to catching fire and how it burns, particularly important for safety compliance. 

Chemical Resistance
Exposure to Chemicals and Environmental Testing

Tests the material’s ability to resist chemical corrosion or degradation, especially for parts exposed to harsh environments. 

Stress Corrosion Cracking
Stress Corrosion Test (ASTM G39)

Evaluates the material's susceptibility to cracking under stress in corrosive environments, important for ensuring long-term durability. 

Perpendicularity
CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine)

Checks the perpendicularity between surfaces to ensure parts fit accurately during assembly, crucial for assembly tolerance. 

Concentricity
CMM Inspection

Measures the concentricity of holes or circular features relative to the axis of the part, ensuring precision during assembly. 

Residual Stress
X-ray Diffraction or Strain Gauge Testing

Measures internal stresses in the material caused by manufacturing processes like welding or forming, which can affect performance and part stability. 

Crack Propagation Resistance
Crack Growth Test

Determines the material’s resistance to crack growth under cyclic loading, ensuring the part performs well under fatigue conditions. 

Weld Strength
Tensile Test of Welds

Measures the strength of welded joints, ensuring the welded areas can withstand the applied loads without failure. 

Edge Burrs
Visual Inspection or Edge Finishing Gauge

Inspects the edges for burrs or sharp protrusions that could affect part assembly or operator safety. 

Hole Distortion
Measurement with CMM or Laser Scanning

Assesses any distortion or elongation of holes post-cutting, ensuring proper dimensions and alignment. 

Heat Affected Zone (HAZ)
Metallographic Microscopy

Examines the heat-affected zone around welded areas to evaluate changes in material properties, ensuring proper heat treatment. 

Electromagnetic Properties
Magnetic Permeability or Eddy Current Testing

Tests the material's electromagnetic characteristics for applications requiring specific magnetic properties, such as for electrical components. 

Dimensional Stability
Thermal Cycling Test

Evaluates the material’s stability under temperature variations, important for components exposed to extreme temperature changes. 

What Our Customers Say about Frigate

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Having Doubts? Our FAQ

Check all our Frequently Asked Question

How does Frigate ensure dimensional accuracy when fabricating complex geometries with thin sheet metals?

Frigate utilizes advanced CNC punching, laser cutting, and precision bending techniques to maintain tight tolerances for complex geometries in thin sheet metals. These technologies enable high accuracy and repeatability while minimizing material distortion during fabrication, ensuring that intricate designs are produced consistently, even with thinner materials. 

How does Frigate manage material deformation in high-strength alloys during fabrication?

Frigate employs specialized tooling and advanced forming techniques to mitigate material deformation when working with high-strength alloys. By carefully controlling factors such as temperature, force, and speed during bending and stamping, Frigate ensures minimal springback. It maintains the structural integrity of the material, preventing any dimensional inaccuracies. 

How does Frigate maintain weld integrity in dissimilar sheet metal materials?

When fabricating with dissimilar metals, Frigate uses optimized techniques such as TIG and MIG welding and precise heat control to prevent issues like cracking or poor fusion. Correct filler material selection and controlled heat input ensure that welds maintain the integrity and performance required for both metals, even in complex assemblies. 

How does Frigate ensure consistency in surface finish across large production runs of sheet metal parts?

Frigate combines advanced finishing techniques, including precision laser cutting, deburring, and automated polishing, to achieve consistent surface finishes across all parts. By integrating these methods into the production process, Frigate ensures that each part meets the required aesthetic and functional standards, regardless of batch size, maintaining uniformity in appearance and performance. 

How does Frigate optimize tool life and reduce high-volume sheet metal fabrication downtime?

Frigate implements predictive maintenance and tool monitoring systems to track wear patterns and optimize tool usage. Tools are replaced or adjusted by using advanced sensors and real-time data before they degrade performance, minimizing downtime. This proactive approach enhances productivity, ensuring continuous high-volume output without compromising the quality of sheet metal components. 

Manufacturing Capability/Capacity

Casting
Forging
Machining
Plastics - Injection Molding
Fabrication

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LOCATIONS

Global Sales Office

818, Preakness lane, Coppell, Texas, USA – 75019

Registered Office

23, 6th West Street, Balaji Nagar, Kattur,  Pappakuruchi, Tiruchirappalli-620019, Tamil Nadu, India.

Operations Office

9/1, Poonthottam Nagar, Ramanandha Nagar, Saravanampatti, Coimbatore-641035, Tamil Nadu, India. ㅤ

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