You’re starting a new manufacturing project. What are the most reliable metalworking tools to use?

1 Cutting Tools

Cutting tools are used to remove excess metal from a workpiece or to create holes, slots, or shapes. Some of the most common cutting tools are saws, drills, lathes, milling machines, and plasma cutters. These tools can use different methods to cut metal, such as mechanical, thermal, electrical, or chemical. When choosing a cutting tool, you should consider factors such as the material type, thickness, hardness, accuracy, speed, and finish quality.

2 Shaping Tools

Shaping tools are used to alter the form or surface of a metal workpiece by applying force or heat. Some of the most common shaping tools are hammers, anvils, presses, rollers, and dies. These tools can use different techniques to shape metal, such as forging, bending, rolling, extruding, or stamping. When choosing a shaping tool, you should consider factors such as the material ductility, strength, grain structure, and dimensional tolerance.

3 Joining Tools

Joining tools are used to connect two or more metal pieces together by creating a bond or a fastener. Some of the most common joining tools are welders, soldering irons, riveters, and screwdrivers. These tools can use different methods to join metal, such as fusion, brazing, soldering, riveting, or screwing. When choosing a joining tool, you should consider factors such as the material compatibility, joint strength, durability, and aesthetics.

4 Finishing Tools

Finishing tools are used to improve the appearance or performance of a metal workpiece by removing defects or adding coatings. Some of the most common finishing tools are grinders, polishers, sanders, and spray guns. These tools can use different processes to finish metal, such as grinding, polishing, sanding, or painting. When choosing a finishing tool, you should consider factors such as the material smoothness, glossiness, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance.

6 Safety Tools

Safety tools are used to protect yourself and your equipment from hazards or accidents while working with metal. Some of the most common safety tools are gloves, goggles, helmets, earplugs, and fire extinguishers. These tools can help you prevent injuries or damages caused by metal shavings, sparks, noise, or heat. When choosing a safety tool, you should consider factors such as the level of risk, comfort, and convenience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?