Guide to Metal Service Centers Key Terms

Know the terminology to get the right metals for your application

By Yvette Pryce

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Metal service centers are ideal for companies that regularly use metal in their manufacturing process but don’t have the facilities for processing and finishing metals on-site. These centers can offer everything from bulk sheet metals to custom-designed and cut pieces. When you’re obtaining bulk and finished metal products from a metal service center, knowing the terminology will help ensure that you get products which meet your exact specifications. You’ll want to know major differences between hot rolled and cold rolled metals, for example, or you may end up with a finish that doesn’t work for your application.

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Hot rolled

Metal workers heat hot rolled metal until it's pliable, then they run it through rollers. The process molds the metal into the shape and thickness dictated by the rollers. After going through this treatment, the metal is rough, with an oxidized scale on its surface.

I recommend: Read about the qualities of hot rolled steel at Metal Reference.

Cold rolling and cold drawing

Cold rolling runs metal through rollers, but uses room temperature to complete the process rather than high heat. This process provides a bright surface without oxidation. Cold drawing creates a final shape from rolled metals by pulling it through dies.

I recommend: Find out more about the processes of cold rolling and cold drawing at Profiles.

Electro galvanized

Electro galvanized metal undergoes treatment through electrodeposition, a process that coats the surface with a thin layer of another metal, such as zinc, which significantly reduces corrosion.

I recommend: Review the definition of electro galvanized metal at Rolled Steel Products and learn about its limitations.

Plasma cutting

Plasma cutting is an economical way to create unusual and custom shapes. The process utilizes a plasma torch to make intricate cuts in metal. The torch also blows away the molten metal to help finish the cuts.

I recommend: See samples of metal cut with a plasma torch at Applied Robotics.

CAD/CAM processing

CAD/CAM processing uses specialized software to quickly take drawings and plans to a finished piece of metal. The benefit of CAD/CAM processing is that a prototype isn't required to create specialized shapes and parts.

I recommend: The Warren Company offers CAD/CAM processing, as well as a number of other metal services.

Embossing

For a decorative touch, you can choose embossed metals. To create embossing, metal goes through rollers that feature a design which is then stamped onto the metal sheet. The most common embossing patterns for metal are stucco and diamond, but you can also find natural patterns like wood grain and stone.

I recommend: Review metal embossing options offered by American Douglas Metals.