Choosing a suitable metal for a project is much like choosing the right bullet for a gun. If the characteristics and specifications of the bullet and gun do not properly align, the gun will not be able to fire. The same is true for metal. Each metal is created with the intrinsic qualities that make it unique. Certain metals are stronger than others, while others provide advanced corrosion protection and elevated melting temperatures. Four key factors determine metal fabrication qualities and considerations for steel, stainless steel, and aluminum materials.Project metal considerations should include design requirements and materials selection criteria that optimize the end product&#;s performance, reliability, and cost. The metal forming application should also be considered, including product specification requirements and comparisons to differing metal alloys.Prior to production, it is vital to discern proper design requirements. Identifying these necessary conditions will provide a complete perspective of the metal fabrication process and the features the metal must offer the design. Metal forming design considerations can include the following:A metal&#;s properties will provide a broad sense of what tasks it can and cannot perform. Strong metals such as steel and aluminum provide a greater yield strength than softer metals such as copper and tin. Before choosing a metal for your project, it is crucial that the minimum yield stress is accurately determined. Also, consider each material&#;s range of values when determining which materials fit your needs. Assessing the metal&#;s benefits will provide an easy to compare similar alloys.Choosing the best material for a metal forming task can be a harrowing ordeal, especially if there is no clear-cut favorite. The only way to know you&#;re making the right choice is by making an informed decision. When it comes to metal fabrication, informed decisions are made by assessing the needs of your project compared to the values of the metal alloys under consideration. The fundamental properties to consider include the following:A metal&#;s tensile strength represents the force it can withstand without snapping. Tensile strength is a critical factor, especially for projects that will experience significant force.Specific metal forming applications require a metal that does not corrode when exposed to certain conditions, such as salt water and wet environments. Corrosion-resistant metals such as stainless steel and aluminum contain trace elements that protect their metal substrates from harmful corrosion, preserving the integrity of the metal.Some metals are easier to weld than others. If you choose a metal that isn&#;t easily welded, the manufacturing process will require additional time and expertise, which may impact your timeline and budget. Examples of easily welded metals include aluminum, copper, iron, chromoly steel, Hastelloy, Inconel, and Kovar.Machinability describes the ease with which a metal can be cut with a blade. A less machinable metal may require specialty tools, which can increase expenses and lead times.Ductility and formability determine what shapes a metal can become. A metal with lower ductility cannot easily be shaped into a wire, and a less formable metal can&#;t be bent without snapping. A highly formable metal may be the best option if your metal project requires significant shaping.Several metals are commonly used within the metal fabrication process. Premium metal-forming fabrication metals are sought after due to their valuable features and benefits, allowing them to be used for nearly limitless applications. Common metal types used within metal fabrication include:When sheet metal is converted from its original state, it is fabricated. Sheet metal can be fabricated through various cutting or forming processes to reach your application&#;s desired outcome. Sheet metal is manufactured via a blueprint and a manual or computerized cutting or forming process, determining the sheet metal&#;s final result.What separates IMS from other metals companies? With an abundance of metal options and customer service that is second to none, IMS has you covered with the following advantages:In the market for premium metal products and accessories? IMS stocks a wide selection of high-quality metal products in the sizes and styles you need. We also provide metal cutting services to make purchasing easy and convenient. Stop by one of our California or Arizona locations or request a quote today.
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After spending some time on these forums I almost feel that everyone believes Machine shops are the worst type of business and no one should get into this business. If you take a step back, you could almost apply many of the negatives to any business.
I've been in the corporate world for about 20 years, mostly in marketing and looking to move to a different state. A machine shop became available that I am intrigued with and happens to be where our family wants to move to.
It's about 30 years old and real estate is available as well. They focus on more higher end machining.
I have zero machining experience but have always been fascinated by the industry. I am the type that would immerse myself and learn a lot... learn CAD software, equipment, techniques, etc. I would focus on business operations, marketing (they don't even have a website), building up sales capabilities and possibly expanding into new industries. They have a highly skilled foreman and 3 operators/fabricators that would stay on.
Here is a basic annual financial profile (consistent last 4 years based on tax returns):
Revenue = $1 million
Owner cash flow (net income + owner salary) = $250k
Asking price $750k (3x cash flow)
Top customer is 20% of revenue. Top 10 customers are 65% of revenue. Concentration is a bit high but not horrible.
What I like:
- long history of operations and reputation
- lack of sales & marketing (I feel I can really add value here)
- good team in place
- location
Concerns:
- I know nothing about machining or even the industry.
- Industry seems somewhat a commodity business (but so are restaurants, retail stores, etc.)
Am I crazy even thinking about this business? I love the idea of machining and turning ideas into physical goods and making something tangible. I would never consider starting this from scratch but a stable 30 year business with good operators that would benefit from my marketing background might make sense.
Thoughts? Any advice on what to look out for?
Thanks.
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