Perforation of material is accomplished by using mechanical means to penetrate, or &#;punch&#;, through material surface, leaving behind a hole of particular size and shape. In practice, perforated material typically consists of flat sheets that are modified by creating recurring patterns of punched shapes.
Implementation of perforated products into any project requires knowledge of the cost implications associated with specific metal configurations. It is important to understand the various characteristics of a sheet and the options available when specifying the product to be produced.
Before ordering custom perforated sheets, the buyer must typically specify these three traits:
There are many types of materials suitable for perforating, with what is most applicable for the specific projects dependent upon the material cost and properties. Commonly used materials for perforated metal are:
Material thickness is also important to consider, especially since the cost of fabricated pieces is typically derived from the &#;per pound&#; price of the material, and perforated pieces are no exception. The thinner the perforated sheets, the less material used to create the finished piece, and therefore the lower the price per piece.
In addition to simply saving on material cost, it is easier for shops to punch and work thin(ner) sheets than it is to machine thicker pieces, which creates an associated savings in production costs as well. It is important to remember, however, that decreasing the cross-section of the sheets by choosing a lesser thickness will create a decrease in the structural capacity of the sheet.
Utilization of higher-strength pieces can, in some cases, result in an overall reduction in the number of pieces that are required. The designer must balance material thickness versus structural requirements to ultimately decide on the best way to achieve a cost-efficient project.
Perforated product producers are able to create a wide array of hole shapes and patterns in material sheets through the use of standard and custom punches, computerized punching pattern programs and special fabrication techniques.
The end margin width on perforated sheets is normally zero, which means that there is no distance between the perforated patterns and the end of the sheet. This is known as an &#;unfinished pattern&#; and occurs when the punching continues to the ends of the sheet and the holes do not complete their last cut cleanly inside the sheet borders.
Stock sheets are most commonly available in an unfinished pattern configuration. It is also the least expensive way to fabricate a piece from scratch. If desired, a minimum margin width can be created on the ends, but require adjustments to the perforation process, resulting in more expensive sheets.
For more information, please visit Zhuzao.
Knowing the exact specifications of your perforated product can help accelerate the project&#;s completion &#; and lets you know what to expect in terms of cost and timeline. To learn more about the factors that go into selecting your product, download our new eBook, Proper Selection for Perforated Products.
Not all metals are the same; some are better suited than others for indoor and outdoor applications. When deciding which type of metal to use, consider how it will be used &#; decorative or functional. Indoor or outdoor? Below, learn more about perforated metal options and the advantages of each type of material.
Perforated metal is long-lasting and durable. Various coatings can be applied to enhance the appearance and improve longevity. Perforated metal can be used in multiple applications, such as HVAC air diffusers, acoustic panels for noise control, decorative architecture, and filter media or support in water filtration. It is often preferred for applications requiring light and sound control.
For outdoor applications, perforated aluminum is an excellent option. This is primarily due to aluminum&#;s ability to withstand the corrosion caused by natural elements. It can be exposed to rain and chemicals without sacrificing aesthetics or structural integrity. Similarly, perforated aluminum is an excellent option for applications that involve extreme cold, as the material gets stronger at below-freezing temperatures &#; although it should be noted that extremely high temperatures above 400 degrees Fahrenheit can result in the material losing some of its strength. Another advantage of perforated aluminum is that it is lightweight compared to other metals, including steel and copper, making the material easier to install with fewer attachment points.
Perforated steel is more suited for indoor applications due to its susceptibility to corrosion, though coating with a material such as Tnemec can enhance its resistance. One of steel's key benefits is its strength and ability to withstand extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. It is a malleable material, although not to the extent of aluminum. In terms of large-scale projects that require perforated materials, steel is an excellent and economical option.
Stainless steel is one of the most popular options for perforated metals because it combines strength with high corrosion resistance. Perforated stainless steel is made with a minimum of 10 percent chromium, giving it corrosion-resistant qualities throughout its surface. It also has the unique quality of withstanding nicks and abrasions because its chromium oxide film will reform when in contact with oxygen. Depending on the type of stainless steel you choose for your project, it can be resistant to various chemicals and liquids, such as salt water, making it ideal for applications in coastal regions. Stainless steel is used for indoor and outdoor decorative applications because of its consistently attractive appearance.
In terms of quality, copper is one of the best metals for practical and decorative applications. Compared with steel and other metals, copper is softer and more malleable, although its strength can be increased when combined with other materials. Copper is widely valued for its longevity and corrosion resistance. Though copper does oxidize and rust, the rust stabilizes after turning brown and eventually green. Some metals (such as zinc) added to copper to enhance its strength can diminish its corrosion resistance, so it is essential to know the application to find the right balance. For larger projects, perforated copper tends to be more expensive than other materials. Contact one of our staff to learn more about the best-perforated materials. We can help you determine which is best suited for your specific application.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Engraved Perforated Aluminum Panels Supplier.