Whether you’re looking for corrosion-resistant stainless steel, lightweight aluminum, or aesthetically appealing brass, Pinnacle Metal Works & Contracting can help you find the right solution.
When it comes to sheet metal fabrication, choosing the right type of metal is crucial to the success of your project. Each metal offers unique characteristics that make it suitable for different applications, whether you’re working on a commercial construction project, an HVAC system, or custom fabrication for a specific industry.
At Pinnacle Metal Works & Contracting, we pride ourselves on guiding our clients through the best material options for their projects.
Common Types of Sheet Metal
1. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the most popular metals used in fabrication due to its excellent strength, corrosion resistance, and low maintenance. This metal is suitable for environments exposed to moisture or chemicals, such as commercial kitchens, medical facilities, and outdoor installations.
- Key Properties: Corrosion-resistant, durable, and easy to clean
- Common Uses: Kitchen countertops, industrial piping, medical equipment, and exterior cladding
- Grades: Common grades include 304 (great for general use) and 316 (offers higher corrosion resistance).
2. Aluminum
Aluminum is a lightweight, highly versatile metal, making it ideal for applications where weight is a critical factor without sacrificing strength. Its natural corrosion resistance makes it great for both indoor and outdoor projects, especially in the transportation and aerospace industries.
- Key Properties: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and highly malleable
- Common Uses: Aircraft components, vehicle bodies, window frames, and outdoor structures
- Grades: 5052 and 6061 are widely used in the fabrication industry for structural and decorative applications.
Because of its malleability, aluminum is often used in custom designs, including those requiring unique shapes or intricate details.
3. Mild Steel (Carbon Steel)
Mild steel, also known as carbon steel, is commonly used in fabrication due to its affordability, strength, and ease of welding. However, it is prone to rusting, so when used outdoors, it requires protective coatings like galvanization or powder coating.
- Key Properties: Strong, affordable, and easy to weld
- Common Uses: Structural components, automotive parts, frames, and appliances
- Grades: A36 is one of the most commonly used grades for structural and general fabrication purposes.
For clients needing sturdy and cost-effective metalwork, mild steel is a great choice, particularly when a protective coating is applied.
4. Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is mild steel coated with zinc to prevent rusting and corrosion. This protective coating makes it an excellent choice for projects where the metal will be exposed to the elements.
- Key Properties: Corrosion-resistant, durable, and low-maintenance
- Common Uses: Roofing, outdoor structures, ductwork, and automotive parts
- Advantages: Great for outdoor use, long-lasting, and rust-resistant.
At Pinnacle Metal Works & Contracting, we often recommend galvanized steel for clients needing affordable yet weather-resistant solutions, such as custom roofing or outdoor frameworks.
5. Copper
Copper is known for its excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, making it a go-to material for specialized industrial applications. While copper is more expensive than other metals, it offers a unique aesthetic appeal and naturally develops a protective patina over time, which many clients find attractive.
- Key Properties: Excellent conductor, malleable, and aesthetically pleasing
- Common Uses: Electrical wiring, decorative architectural elements, and plumbing
- Advantages: Malleability and natural patina development.
Copper is often the best option for projects involving custom architectural features or electrical components. Its distinct look also makes it ideal for decorative elements.
6. Brass
Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is known for its attractive appearance and resistance to corrosion. Its low friction makes it an excellent material for parts that require smooth movement, such as locks, gears, and doorknobs.
- Key Properties: Aesthetic appeal, corrosion-resistant, and low-friction
- Common Uses: Decorative elements, fittings, musical instruments, and bearings
- Advantages: Long-lasting, easy to machine, and visually appealing.
Brass is ideal for custom fixtures and decorative projects, giving a sophisticated look to any piece while offering functionality.
Why Work with Pinnacle Metal Works & Contracting?
At Pinnacle Metal Works, we specialize in delivering custom sheet metal fabrication services tailored to your project’s requirements. Our expertise and wide range of materials help businesses and homeowners achieve their goals with precision and efficiency.