Sheet metal fabrication refers to the processing of metal sheets. Specific examples include using sheet metal to make chimneys, iron drums, oil tanks, ventilation ducts, elbows, reducers, and funnel-shaped components. The main processes include shearing, bending, hemming, forming, welding, and riveting, requiring a certain level of geometric knowledge. Sheet metal parts are thin-plate hardware parts, which are parts that can be processed by stamping, bending, stretching, etc. A general definition is a part whose thickness remains unchanged during processing. This contrasts with castings, forgings, and machined parts.
