Author Archives: Jon

  1. Benefits of Using Aluminum as a Protective Covering

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    Benefits of Using Aluminum as a Protective Covering

    One material stands out for its exceptional properties when creating protective coverings: aluminum. Aluminum is a versatile and highly effective choice for safeguarding various surfaces and components. In this blog, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of using aluminum as a protective covering, from its corrosion resistance to its electrical and thermal conductivity, all while keeping an eye on its cost-effectiveness.

    Corrosion Resistance

    One of the greatest benefits of using aluminum as a protective covering is its remarkable corrosion resistance. Aluminum naturally forms a thin oxide layer on its surface, acting as a protective barrier against environmental elements like moisture, oxygen, and corrosive chemicals. This oxide layer prevents the underlying aluminum from rusting or corroding, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications and harsh environments.

    Aluminum sheet manufacturers often use various techniques to enhance this corrosion resistance further. They can apply specialized coatings or treatments to the aluminum sheets to provide even more protection against corrosion. The specialized coating makes aluminum a top choice for industries like construction and aerospace, where exposure to corrosive elements is a common concern.

    Electrical and Thermal Conductivity

    Aluminum’s powerful electrical and thermal conductivity make it a valuable material for protective coverings in industries that require heat dissipation or electrical conductivity. Its high thermal conductivity allows aluminum to efficiently transfer heat away from sensitive components, making it an excellent choice for heat sinks in electronic devices.

    Additionally, aluminum’s electrical conductivity makes it suitable for applications that require electrical grounding or shielding. It can help protect sensitive electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radiofrequency interference (RFI). As a result, the electronics and telecommunication industries love using aluminum protective coverings.

    Lower Cost

    Another significant advantage of using aluminum as a protective covering is its cost-effectiveness. Aluminum is abundant, which keeps production costs relatively low compared to other materials with similar properties. The easy long-term maintenance of aluminum also contributes to your savings.

    Furthermore, aluminum is lightweight, which reduces the price of shipping and handling. The cost-effectiveness of aluminum is particularly beneficial for industries that require large quantities of protective coverings, such as automotive manufacturing and construction.

    Contact a Reliable Aluminum Sheet Metal Supplier

    The benefits of using aluminum as a protective covering are numerous and far reaching. Its corrosion resistance, electrical and thermal conductivity, and cost-effectiveness make it a standout choice for various applications. Whether you’re looking to shield against the elements or provide effective heat dissipation and electrical grounding, aluminum is a material that can meet your requirements.

    At Thin Metal Sales, we supply the West Coast with exceptional materials for their protective covering needs. Our team will help you create custom aluminum sheets for your business and give you a quality of service you’ve never experienced before. The next time you need protective coverings for your project, contact the most reliable aluminum sheet metal supplier.

  2. Why Copper Is One of the Most Important Metals

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    Why Copper Is One of the Most Important Metals

    Copper has long been one of the most important metals supporting human life. We use copper for various essential functions, including building construction, transportation equipment, consumer products, and industrial machinery. Continue reading to learn why copper is one of the most important metals supporting our modern economy.

    Unique Qualities

    Copper is one of the most widely used metals in the world. There are also more than 500 copper alloys in existence. If you’ve ever used a smart device, you have benefited from the existence of copper. Copper is the engine of the industrial economy because of its unique qualities, which include:

    • High ductility: You can easily shape and stretch copper into many forms.
    • High thermal and electrical conductivity: Copper conducts heat and electrical energy better than most metals.
    • 100 percent recyclable: Copper is one of the few materials you can recycle without any performance loss.

    Few Substitutes

    Another reason why copper is one of the most important metals is that there are few substitutes for copper. Only silver operates as a stronger conductor. However, silver is far more expensive than copper, which significantly decreases its usefulness.

    High Impact

    Americans use thousands of pounds of copper during their lifetimes for both essential and routine functions. Copper is the third-most-used metal in the United States, after iron and aluminum. Without copper, our daily lives would look drastically different. Wherever you look in your home or on the street, you’ll find something that uses copper elements.

    Find the Best Copper and Brass Sheet Manufacturer

    If your business needs copper to operate successfully, you should go to only the top manufacturer. Thin Metal Sales is the best manufacturer of copper and thin brass sheets on the West Coast. For more information about our copper products, please contact us by phone or through our website.

  3. Understanding Everyday Uses of Sheet Metal

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    Understanding Everyday Uses of Sheet Metal

    We encounter sheet metal every day, from the smartphones we carry to the cars we drive or ride in. Sheet metal comes in various gauges, sizes, and thicknesses; you can shape it into virtually anything! Read on to understand the everyday uses of sheet metal.

    Transportation Industry

    The automotive industry uses sheet metal for almost all operations and products. This industry uses sheet metal for cars, trains, buses, and rail cars. Sheet metal is also common for components in these vehicles, like oil pans, hoods, roofing, seating, and springs. Various aspects of a car, including engines and hoods, consist of sheet metal.

    Construction Use

    The construction industry uses sheet metal the most. Given its versatility, construction workers use sheet metal for many projects, like balconies, frames, industrial walkways, staircases, and support beams. Manufacturers use sheet metal to hold structural components in one place and support the entire structure. They also combine sheet metal with other materials to create floors, ceilings, or walls.

    Plumbing Systems

    At the turn of the 21st century, sheet metal became popular for plumbing systems because of its versatility. Galvanized metal piping made of sheet metal will last longer than lead and iron pipes.

    Arts and Decoration

    Sheet metal has many recreational and artistic uses, and many artists and architects take advantage of that fact. For instance, playground equipment like swings, slides, and see-saws contain sheet metal. Artists can make sculptures, decorations, and other artistic pieces with sheet metal. Consumers are even using sheet metal in their homes! Many people like metal bookcases more than wood for their striking presence.

    These are just a few of the everyday uses of sheet metal. If you’re interested in learning more or taking advantage of steel and metal sales, we have you covered at Thin Metal Sales! Contact us today, and we’ll answer all your questions.

  4. Different Types of Stainless Steel and When To Use Them

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    Different Types of Stainless Steel and When To Use Them

    These days, you see stainless steel everywhere you go. Whether it’s your cabinets, fridge, countertops, or even your car, stainless steel has various applications. However, what many people don’t know is that stainless steel falls under a variety of categories and grades that indicate its strength and other factors, such as oxidation resistance, melting point, and corrosion resistance. If this is all new to you, don’t worry—check out this explanation of the different types of stainless steel and when to use them.

    Austenitic Stainless Steels

    Companies and manufacturers use austenitic stainless steel most frequently since this material has a high chromium content. This means that the stainless steel will resist corrosion and rusting better than other metals, and it is non-magnetic. That said, you can make austenitic stainless steel magnetic after you perform cold work on the steel. People use this form of stainless steel for large-scale industrial applications, such as building airplane structural components. Still, there’s a chance you’ve purchased something as simple as cutlery that contains this type of steel without even knowing it.

    Ferritic Stainless Steels

    Ferritic stainless steel is a magnetic material boasting great corrosion resistance properties, and manufacturers often harden this type of steel through cold working. You might be surprised to learn that this steel is relatively inexpensive due to its low nickel content. Also, it is another metal manufacturers use for cookware, although this steel can be used to create car components as well. Ferritic stainless steel is both malleable and strong, making it one of the most versatile and popular choices when considering the different types of stainless steel and their applications.

    Duplex Stainless Steels

    This form of stainless steel is a hybrid of both austenitic and ferritic stainless steel. This material is stronger than its individual counterparts, with improved cracking resistance and better erosion-resistant capabilities. Duplex stainless steel is magnetic due to its high ferritic content, and it’s easy to weld. This steel is perfect for industries that drill for oil underwater since it is resistant to corrosion from saltwater.

    If you’re looking to take advantage of some stainless steel sales, check out the various metals and alloys available at Thin Metal Sales. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us for more details—we’re always happy to help.

  5. Benefits of Using Brass Over Stainless Steel

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    Benefits of Using Brass Over Stainless Steel

    Deciding between brass and stainless steel may come down to what’s more aesthetically appealing. However, the differences between the two metals go beyond color and what matches your kitchen or bathroom. Let us break down the brass tax and explore the benefits of using brass over stainless steel.

    Corrosion-Resistant

    Brass is far more corrosion-resistant than stainless steel. Steel is very vulnerable to corrosion in its unprotected, unalloyed state. Because of that, chromium in stainless steel coatings helps to reduce the corrosion rate. Even with chromium, however, steel can still corrode.

    Brass resists corrosion better than other metals. It has no iron interaction, making it last much longer than steel. As a result, brass is the metal of choice in the plumbing industry. Opting for brass ensures no faulty or busted pipes can wreak havoc on your project.

    More Malleable

    Ductility is vital with metals because we often contort them into unique shapes. Brass is better to work with because steel is quite stiff. While rigidity is ideal for some circumstances, other applications require malleable materials.

    Brass is the answer to your flexibility needs. You can use brass in various applications, most notably in the automobile sector. When steel gets too hot from the engine or other components, it can crack or break. Brass, on the other hand, adapts to heat.

    Better Conductor

    Conducting electricity is an important ability for many metals. The primary difference between steel and brass is that the latter is a far better electrical conductor. Steel combines iron and carbon, making it poor at conducting electricity. For this reason, many electrical experts advocate replacing steel wires with brass. In addition to lowering the risk of electrical fires, brass simplifies supplying power to a house.

    Applications for Each Metal

    Stainless steel and brass have unique uses thanks to their composition. Steel is ideal for building projects due to its durability and longevity. It is a popular choice among architects for making the framework of structures like bridges and houses.

    Smaller, more delicately manufactured projects often include brass because of its versatility and affordability. You can mold and shape brass to suit your needs with relative ease. It’s common in producing plumbing fixtures, valves, and fasteners for automobiles and airplanes.

    It all comes down to what the project is when debating the benefits of using brass over stainless steel. Thin Metal Sales can cater to your needs by being the most trusted brass sheet supplier. We are happy to fulfill your requests, whether it’s for a small or large job.

  6. 4 Industrial Uses for Aluminum Sheet Metal

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    4 Industrial Uses for Aluminum Sheet Metal

    We may often take for granted how valuable aluminum is in our daily lives. Everywhere you look, you will see something that has aluminum components involved. These four industrial uses for aluminum sheet metal are just the tip of the metal’s importance.

    1) Home Appliances

    You will find aluminum in many modern homes in their appliances. People often view aluminum and stainless steel interchangeably, especially with appliances like ovens, refrigerators, and laundry machines. However, it will take you a moment to realize how vastly different the materials are by trying to move one. A stainless-steel appliance requires a lot of strength even to budge. On the other hand, aluminum appliances are far lighter.

    Temperature resistance is another benefit of aluminum. While stainless steel can handle the heat of the kitchen, it can struggle with the cold. Both hot and cold temperatures won’t phase aluminum appliances.

    2) Packaged Goods

    Because of aluminum’s malleability, manufacturers depend on aluminum cans for many food and drink items. Aluminum doesn’t rust. So even if you find a decade-old can of soup in the back of your pantry, it will look as flawless as it did the year you bought it.

    Aluminum packaging stands head and shoulders above the competition because of its high-end appearance and feel. Companies often get creative with aluminum packaging because of the distinctive forms and striking visuals they can create with it.

    3) Strong Cookware

    Many of the same benefits you can apply to packaging and appliances also apply to aluminum cookware. As we know from appliances, aluminum can handle both ends of the extreme temperature spectrum. A quality kitchen won’t want to handle weakened stainless-steel pots and pans from cold food items—instead, aluminum cookware is the way to go.

    More importantly, aluminum cookware has a non-stick coating that is nearly impenetrable. Add in the fact that aluminum is extremely lightweight, and this cookware becomes the most trusted ally in the kitchen.

    4) Fuel-Efficient Vehicles

    Using lightweight aluminum for manufacturing vehicles is beneficial for handling purposes. Plus, the weight reduction also improves fuel efficiency. The lighter the car, the more MPG you get. Furthermore, aluminum is corrosion resistant, making an all-aluminum body far more robust than any other material without sacrificing safety measures.

    These four industrial uses for aluminum sheet metal prove why it’s the preferred choice for many applications. You can experience the benefits yourself when you’re looking for aluminum sheets for sale from Thin Metal Sales. We offer sheet metal in various materials and sizes to help accommodate all our customers regardless of the job.

  7. 4 Uses of Stainless Steel for Commercial Applications

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    4 Uses of Stainless Steel for Commercial Applications

    Stainless steel continues to be one of the most reliable metals worldwide. It’s so prevalent in our daily lives that we almost take it for granted. But these four uses of stainless steel for commercial applications would be lost without it.

    1) Steel Machines

    Stainless steel is one of the longest-lasting metals because it resists corrosion, stains, and high temperatures. Many factories choose stainless steel machinery because of its longevity and other advantages.

    Companies lose time and money on repairs and maintenance if they don’t invest in long-lasting machinery. Note that even stainless-steel machinery needs regular care and cleaning, but you will have less unscheduled maintenance with high-quality stainless steel’s durability.

    2) Stable Infrastructure

    Stainless steel is a fantastic choice for structural, load-bearing applications due to its wide range of useful qualities. Infrastructure uses various forms of austenitic and duplex stainless steel, including sheet, plate, bar, and tubing.

    Standard austenitic material is available in a variety of hot-rolled or welded structural components. Duplex stainless steel is often a made-to-order material. Additionally, cold forming, extruding, and laser fusing create structural components. There is a large selection of stainless steel nuts, bolts, screws, and washers, among other fasteners.

    3) The Medical Field

    There are several applications for stainless steel in the medical device manufacturing industry. In addition to being resistant to corrosion and fire, this material is also relatively low-maintenance and offers several other advantages.

    It is crucial that medical supplies are simple to sterilize to prevent the spread of germs and infectious diseases. Stainless steel holds up well to routine cleaning and sterilization, unlike some other less durable materials.

    Surgical procedures, biomedical implants, and other critical areas of medicine have long relied on stainless steel for a variety of reasons. Because of their proximity to the human body and its substances, it is crucial that these steels are sanitary. They must also be resistant to the concentrated acids used in disinfecting and cleaning settings.

    When patients go to the doctor or the dentist, they get a firsthand look at the tools of the trade. Whether it’s a surgical instrument or a non-invasive implant, stainless steel is the material of choice. The hospital bed, a ubiquitous fixture in any hospital’s wards, is a prime example of the widespread use of stainless steel in the healthcare industry.

    4) National Defense

    Products made from stainless steel are versatile and find usage in many different fields. While many of these applications are commonplace, others are more niche. Aerospace and military are two of the most crucial applications. Stainless steel’s resistance to rust and corrosion, thanks to its chromium content, is only one of several qualities that make it well-suited for these uses.

    Rocket engines work at high temperatures and pressures, so they need components to resist such conditions. That’s why stainless steel is popular for rocket engine parts like the combustion chamber and nozzle.

    Stainless steel has several applications in the military sector, including manufacturing aircraft, weaponry, and ammunition, as well as tanks, submarines, and ships. Because of its high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion, it is a great material for these uses.

    It’s evident from the four uses of stainless steel for commercial applications that it’s versatile and prominent in many sectors. Thin Metal Sales are ready to answer the call if you want quality stainless steel for your task. We pride ourselves on being your number one choice for stainless steel sales, no matter how big or small the job is.

  8. A Quick Overview of Sheet Metal Fabrication

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    A Quick Overview of Sheet Metal Fabrication

    Sheet metal fabrication is creating three-dimensional metal objects from two-dimensional metal sheets. This process often includes fabricating components and pieces from sheet metals of various sorts. It’s a versatile method that can produce many different metal parts from materials, including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, and brass.

    It is common practice in sheet metal production to use many processes in tandem to create the final product. Let us explain those processes in this quick overview of sheet metal fabrication.

    Shear Determination

    The fabrication process for sheet metal usually begins with the cutting process. Cutting the metal sheet to size requires specialist equipment like shears or laser cutters.

    Cutting happens in three distinct ways: shearing, punching, or blanking. However, sheet metal fabricators also do non-shearing cutting operations. This method is the best option for industrial tasks requiring precise cutting and shorter turnaround times.

    Bend and Don’t Break

    Bending may produce various angles and forms, from the simplest to those that take many bends. In addition, bending is a low-investment method that may produce high-quantity components of stable quality. Although bending seems easy to the naked eye, it is a sophisticated operation requiring an exceptionally talented fabricator.

    A Puncher’s Chance

    Various metal sheets benefit significantly from the punching process. Fabricators use a punch of the appropriate size and form to push through a metal sheet, producing a hole of the specified dimensions. And put the die where it will catch the discarded metal from the sheet. Punching makes holes, indentations, and characteristics like dimples and countersinks in the metal sheet.

    All’s Well That Ends Weld

    Welding is crucial in creating functional, unified components when working with metal sheets. Stick welding, metal inert gas welding, and tungsten inert gas welding are just a few methods.

    Welding procedures vary in how they go about melting the edges of the components and adding filler material, but they all accomplish the same goal of putting metal pieces together. This method produces a strong metallurgical link between the components, melting them together.

    Fabricators Assemble

    Metal fabrication culminates in the assembly stage, allowing intricate metal structures and parts to get produced. Sheet metal fabricators may make superior products that conform to all norms and requirements, provided they use the appropriate processes and procedures.

    Mechanical fastening, welding, and adhesive bonding are all viable options for completing the assembly. Mechanical fastening involves using bolts, screws, or any other kind of fastener to combine the metal pieces. Welding forms an irreversible connection between the components, increasing the strength and longevity of the result. For cases where welding is impractical—or weight savings are paramount— adhesive bonding is a popular alternative.

    The level of experience and ability required for assembly varies widely. Avoiding problems with the finished product requires carefully and securely assembling all components.

    Sheet metal items are very ubiquitous in everyday life. As a result, you may probably find these things everywhere you go, whether it’s your house, office, or store. But with this quick overview of sheet metal fabrication, you get a better appreciation of any custom sheet metal for sale that exemplifies metal production’s longevity, adaptability, and pervasiveness, something of which Thin Metal Sales is a proud part.

  9. 4 Most Common Industrial Uses of Copper Sheets

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    4 Most Common Industrial Uses of Copper Sheets

    No matter where you look, it won’t take long to find something made with copper. This metal surrounds us because it’s desirable, aesthetically pleasing, and durable. The four most common industrial uses of copper sheets highlight which fields benefit from them.

    The Most Electrifying Metal in the World

    The industry that champions copper the most is easily electrical wiring. Copper is second to silver as the most conductive metal; however, copper is more budget-friendly, making it the prominent choice for everyone in that sector.

    Copper is in almost all electrical wires, sans power lines, which are primarily aluminum. Copper’s malleability and ease of stretching out into extremely thin, flexible, robust wires make it ideal for electrical infrastructure.

    Other industrial uses for copper include heating elements, motors, renewable energy, internet cables, and technological devices.

    High-Quality H₂O

    Copper has a long history in construction because it is visually striking and architecturally stylish. Thin copper sheets are particularly well-suited for roofing and other external elements.

    Copper has replaced iron and plastic as the preferred material for piping potable water due to its antibacterial and antiviral qualities. Copper’s malleability and resistance to heat and corrosion also make it a good choice for pipe systems. It finds widespread usage in distillation, the pharmaceutical industry, and other niche fields.

    Planes, Trains, & Automobiles

    Copper and brass have been the norm for oil coolers and radiators since the 1970s when they began to replace aluminum. Copper-based alloys are extremely popular in the locomotive and aircraft sectors, and the boom in the electric vehicle market increased the demand for copper more than ever.

    A Potpourri of Awesomeness

    The remaining industrial uses of copper include but are not limited to metal sculptures, jewelry, signage, and musical instruments. The greatest proof of copper’s potential is the 80-ton Statue of Liberty and its signature green patina. Copper is gaining favor as an antibacterial material for high-touch objects in public spaces, including the following:

    • Faucets
    • Doorknobs
    • Locks
    • Handrails
    • Countertops
    • Hooks
    • Handles

    After exploring the four most common industrial uses of copper sheets, we can conclude that the demand for this precious metal isn’t going away anytime soon. You can count on Thin Metal Sales to provide the thinnest, most durable copper sheets available. Regardless of your project, we will supply you with copper sheets that ensure a job well done!

  10. The Differences Between Alloys and Pure Metals

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    The Differences Between Alloys and Pure Metals

    Many people argue whether pure metal or metal alloys are better for a given use. But after highlighting the differences between alloys and pure metals, you’ll see why metal alloys provide several advantages over pure metals.

    Chemistry

    You can trace the distinction between metals and alloys back to the elements that compose them. All the atoms in a pure metal are the same. For instance, chromium is a pure metal since it’s on the periodic table. In contrast, atoms of various elements mesh to form an alloy. Stainless steel, for instance, combines chromium, iron, and carbon.

    Strength

    Alloys are composites of many metals, each contributing desirable features while canceling out the negative features of others. By doing so, an alloy has superior strength compared with the original metals.

    Since pure metals can weaken, alloying is beneficial to generate a harder metal complex. Unlike pure metal, which consists of identical atoms, metal alloys include various elements. Alloys of metals are often significantly stronger and harder than pure metals because of their tightly packed atoms.

    Gold is a prime example of this. In its purest form, gold is a surprisingly malleable and pliable metal. But you can blend gold with zinc, copper, or silver to create beautiful, durable alloy jewelry.

    Heat-Resistance

    Alloys have a variety of melting points due to the combination of metals they contain and their respective melting points. When you combine metals, the melting point can increase, even if one metal melts at a relatively low temperature. This has enormous practical value for industrial applications like aircraft engines, where temperatures may reach very high levels.

    Stimuli Response

    Adding alloying elements to pure metals like iron is a major benefit because of how fast and powerfully they respond to external stimuli. Pure metals may rust, oxidize, or corrode over time due to environmental factors like oxygen and water. Alloys, on the other hand, are mixtures of less reactive metals that extend the life of the material they form. For example, the chromium in stainless steel makes it resistant to corrosion.

    Understanding the differences between alloys and pure metals indicates why alloy is a great resource. Since 1976, Thin Metal Sales has provided customers with high-quality, thin-gauge sheet metals.

    We are proud to be the best aluminum sheet metal manufacturer for any width and length. We also work with stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, and brass. You can trust the sheet metal you purchase from Thin Metal Sales is of the highest quality and has been properly cut to meet your needs.