FAQ’S

ABOUT US

How long has METALfx been in business?

 

METALfx has been in business since 1976, starting as a precision sheet metal fabricator specializing in networking equipment. Over the years, we’ve expanded our capabilities and equipment to better cater to our customers’ diverse needs.

Is METALfx ISO 9001 Certified?

 

Our metal fabrication facilities have been ISO 9001 certified since 1995, demonstrating our commitment to delivering high-quality pieces tailored to your projects

What types of projects has METALfx done in the past?

 

With our state-of-the-art facilities, we’ve undertaken a wide array of projects spanning various industries, including medical, food service, semiconductor, electronics, transportation, and industrial sectors.

MANUFACTURING QUESTIONS

What is the difference between Metal Stamping and Metal Fabrication?

 

Metal Stamping utilizes punch presses with custom tooling and dies to create specific shapes or patterns, while Metal Fabrication employs specialized equipment like CNC laser cutters, press brakes, turret presses, and welding to craft three-dimensional metal parts. Metal fabrication is often more cost-effective for producing parts in smaller quantities compared to stamping due to the associated tooling costs.

What types of fabricated metal parts and products does METALfx produce?

 

METALfx is capable of manufacturing a diverse range of metal products, including enclosures, assemblies, weldments, and individual parts, using precision sheet metal processes.

Does METALfx do machining?

 

Certainly! We operate multiple CNC mills and lathes not only to enhance our sheet metal capabilities but also to produce standalone machined parts. Our equipment includes rotary tables, 4th axis, bar feeders, and various attachments, all geared towards facilitating your project requirements.

How do I choose the grade of stainless steel for my sheet metal components?

 

There are three main commercial grades of stainless steel from which we would manufacture your components: 316, 304, and 430.

The 316 grade of stainless steel is used where superior corrosion resistance is needed, e.g., in the marine industry. The material is more expensive than either 304 or 430 stainless steels and, therefore, needs only be specified when used in an external environment or where corrosion resistance above that of 304 is required.

The 304 grade of stainless steel is a good commercial grade used in most applications. It also has excellent corrosion resistance, though not to the level of 316. 304 is still suitable for many applications and is cheaper than 316.

The 430 grade of stainless steel is the cheapest grade and has similar properties to 304 but can attract magnets.
All 3 stainless steel grades can be welded and painted.

When selecting the grade of stainless steel for your components, consider factors such as corrosion resistance and cost. Grades like 316 offer superior corrosion resistance, ideal for marine applications, while 304 is a good commercial grade suitable for various applications. The 430 grade provides economical options but attracts magnets.

What materials does METALfx work with?

 

We work with carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and many others, covering a wide range of varieties within these metal groups. Feel free to reach out for specific material inquiries.

What thickness of metal can you use with the CNC punch?

 

For CNC punch operations, we typically handle:
Stainless Steel: Up to 11 gauge (3.2mm)
Mild Steel: Up to 8 gauge (4.2mm)
Aluminum: Up to 7 gauge (3.6mm)
For CNC laser cutting, we typically handle:
Stainless Steel: Up to 1.125” (28.5mm)
Mild Steel: Up to 1.0” (25.4mm)
Aluminum: Up to 1.125” (28.5mm)

Is it possible to get scratch-free metal components?

 

We offer protective plastic peelable films for aluminum and stainless-steel grades to minimize damage. However, this option is unavailable for mild steel, Zintec, and galvanized steel components.

What is the difference between fiber optic laser cutting and CO2 Laser cutting?

 

Fiber optic laser cutting excels in cutting thinner materials and can handle materials like copper and brass, unlike CO2 laser cutting. At METALfx, we have capabilities for both types of laser cutting.

Does METALfx do prototype fabrication work?

 

While we primarily focus on ongoing production fabrication, we support OEM customers from initial test builds to total production.

How do I know if my project quantities fit your operations well?

 

Given the uniqueness of each project, the response will largely hinge on the intricacy and nature of fabrication required, notwithstanding our specialization in continuous production fabrication. Our operations are well-suited for various project quantities, ranging from simple brackets of just a few to running 5,000 or more parts per year.

What kind of engineering or design support do you offer?

 

While we do not offer complete product design, our team provides expert advice on manufacturability and cost reduction to support your project needs.

SHIPPING QUESTIONS

Does METALfx ship internationally?

 

Absolutely! Our shipping services extend to numerous countries worldwide. Explore our “Locations We’ve Served” page to discover the destinations where we’ve successfully delivered parts previously.

Does METALfx deliver within California?

 

Certainly! For customers within a 300-mile radius of our location, we offer personalized delivery using our fleet of trucks. Alternatively, we can ship your project to locations beyond this radius.

GET IN TOUCH

METALfx welcomes the opportunity to work with you on your next project.

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METALfx

200 N Lenore Ave.
Willits, CA 95490

hello@metalfx.com

Ph: 800-479-9451