Handbook of Fabrication Processes

Book excerpt: This book is a valuable reference for the materials engineer, the manufacturing engineer, or the technician who wants a practical description of fabrication processes. Sheet metal fabrication processes are receiving greater attention and are more widely applied by the metalworking industries because of the savings in cost and material. This book compiles the proven theories and operations tested in industrial applications. Focus is on the non-chip-producing machine tools that shape metals by shearing, pressing and forming. New materials and advances in tooling are discussed, as well as the need for applied science in optimizing the operations for sheet metal fabrication processes. Examples of each of these forming processes are given, and the text also describes the mechanics of each process so that a logical decision can be made concerning the best operation for a specific result. The volume is divided into five sections each consisting of a series of chapters. The major sections cover fabricating presses, stamping and forming operations, plastics for tooling, structural shapes, and non-traditional machining. A section on definitions and terminology is also included.The book is profusely illustrated and indexed, making it easy to find references to specific forming topics. Written by an expert with 40 years of hands-on practical engineering experience, this Handbook contains the essential information you need on forming methods, machinery and the response of materials.