
Sheet metal forming definition
Sheet metal forming is an effective means of producing sheet metal parts in complex three-dimensional shapes with a minimum of material.
How does sheet metal forming work?
The applied process generates a force that stresses the material to deform. This, in turn, gives the possibility to bend or stretch the sheet to a variety of complex shapes.
Sheet metal forming process
There are many techniques used in sheet metal forming such as:Sheet metal forming: Curling
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Sheet metal often contains sharp edges with “burrs” after it’s initially produced. Curling is a forming process that involves de-burring sheet metal to produce smooth edges.Sheet metal forming: Bending
Another common sheet metal forming process is bending
Companies typically perform bending on sheet metal using either a brake press or similar machine press. The sheet metal is placed over a die block, at which point a punch presses down onto the sheet metal. Bending doesn’t actually create holes in sheet metal. Rather, it lives up to its namesake by “bending” sheet metal in the shape of the die
Companies typically perform bending on sheet metal using either a brake press or similar machine press. The sheet metal is placed over a die block, at which point a punch presses down onto the sheet metal. Bending doesn’t actually create holes in sheet metal. Rather, it lives up to its namesake by “bending” sheet metal in the shape of the die
Sheet metal forming: Ironing
Sheet metal may also be ironed to achieve a uniform thickness
Most aluminum cans, for instance, are made of ironed aluminum. In its raw state, the aluminum sheet metal is too thick for beverage cans, so it’s ironed to achieve a thinner, more uniform composition. Ironing involves the use of a punch to force sheet metal between two dies.
Sheet metal forming: Laser Cutting
Laser cutting has become an increasingly common sheet metal forming process in recent years
With laser cutting, sheet metal is exposed to a high-powered laser that burns holes in the metal. It’s a faster and more precise cutting method that can even be performed automatically using a computer numerically controlled (CNC) laser cutting machine.
With laser cutting, sheet metal is exposed to a high-powered laser that burns holes in the metal. It’s a faster and more precise cutting method that can even be performed automatically using a computer numerically controlled (CNC) laser cutting machine.
Sheet metal forming: Hydro Forming
A lesser-known sheet metal forming process is hydroforming
Like deep drawing, hydroforming involves stretching the blank over a die. So, what’s the difference between hydroforming and deep drawing? The key difference between these two processes is that deep drawing requires multiple draw reductions, whereas hydroforming is performed in just one step.
Sheet metal forming: Punching
Finally, punching is a sheet metal forming process that involves the use of a punch and die set to create holes in sheet metal. The sheet metal is placed between the punch and die. Next, the punch presses down and through the sheet metal to create a hole.

Vietnam out-sourcing (VNO) works with manufacturers that have different setup and layout for different applications. Our lines can consist of mechanical and hydraulic pressing machines with pressing power from 60 to 3500 tons.
VNO has a team of engineers, tool/mold expert to work with our customers for product development. We also try to work with manufacturers that have in-house surface preparation/treatment facilities to ensure the best quality and saving for our customers.
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