Bend and grain
Inside radius, temper and bend direction determine whether the edge cracks or stays clean.
MATERIALS BY PROCESS
Sheet Metal Materials
Select sheet by bendability, weldability, corrosion, thickness availability and the finish required after forming.
See material options
01 · PRACTICAL ANSWER
What should you decide first?
For light formed enclosures, begin with 5052 or 6061 aluminum based on bend severity. Use mild steel for economical strength, 304 stainless for clean corrosion-resistant fabrications, and 316 when chloride exposure justifies the cost. Always specify alloy, temper, thickness and grain-direction limits.
02 · ENGINEERING CHECKPOINTS
Four decisions before the grade.
These questions usually eliminate unsuitable material families faster than comparing long property tables.
Joining route
Welding, riveting, clinching and inserts each favor different thickness and grade choices.
Corrosion system
Base metal, pretreatment, coating and dissimilar-metal contact must work as one system.
Visible surfaces
Mark cosmetic faces, grain direction, weld blend limits and coating class on the drawing.
04 · DRAWING NOTE
Write the requirement, not only the material name.
- 01 Grade and condition
- 02 Critical dimensions and datums
- 03 Finish and cosmetic surfaces
- 04 Certificate and compliance needs