Author Archives: Jon

  1. What Metals Are Recyclable?

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    Recycling is becoming more and more popular for its many benefits. When it comes to metal, many people might not know which metals can be recycled and which can’t. According to Blackstone, less than half, or about 40%, of new steel products worldwide are made with recycled metal. This number is expected to increase as people and businesses become more aware of the benefits of recycling. If you’re wondering what metals are recyclable, then read on to get a good understanding.

    Brass and Copper

    Brass and copper can be recycled over and over again into new products, such as brass pots and pans, copper pipes, and brass doorknobs. They can become new products without losing their quality. When brass and copper are recycled, they are first melted down and then formed into new products. This process uses less energy than if the brass and copper were mined from the ground.

    Recycled brass and copper can be used in a wide variety of industries across the United States. Brass can be used by aerospace parts manufacturers to make products such as fuselages, engine nacelles, and aircraft skins. Chemical etching companies can use copper to make products such as etched plates, nameplates, and signs.

    Aluminum, Steel, and Lead

    Aluminum, steel, and lead are some other metals that can be recycled into new products without losing their quality. Recycling these metals conserves natural resources and energy, and it reduces pollution. Just like recycled brass and copper, recycled aluminum, steel, and lead are also used in a variety of industries. Stamping parts manufacturers use recycled steel to make products such as automotive parts, appliances, and furniture. Medical device companies use recycled lead to make products such as X-ray shielding, medical tubing, and radiation shielding.

    Now that you know which metals are recyclable, order them in bulk for your customers to use and to recycle overtime. If you need any kind of metal to keep your company’s production going, then take a look at our selections of brass, copper, and other metals. Call us at Thin Metal Sales today to get started with your order.

  2. Finding the Best Sheet Metal Workers for Your Business

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    Even though the United States had 138,900 sheet metal workers in 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it can still be difficult to find the best sheet metal workers for your business. If your fabrication or manufacturing business requires workers who are experts when it comes to working with SAE 304 stainless steel, it makes sense to take your time and find the best people available.

    If your end product, such as a medical device or equipment, requires the use of SAE 304 stainless, it’s important to hire the right sheet metal workers for your business. This is especially true for companies that manufacture aerospace parts, chemical etching companies, stamping parts, and medical devices. Let’s explore some tips for finding the best workers for your business.

    Partnerships

    To find the best sheet metal workers, it’s important to set out clear and concise job requirements. If your manufacturing includes the use of components like SAE 304 stainless steel, be sure to include that in the job description. Approaching a technical school that provides such training is often a good way to start. Forming this type of partnership can go a long way in helping hiring companies reach the candidates who are best suited for the position. Another one of the most effective ways to only consider qualified candidates is to work with a school or training program to find new workers.

    Testing Modules

    Another way to narrow down the pool of candidates to only those best suited for the role is to set up a testing module. This module can be required to be completed during the first stages of the search and thereby eliminate unqualified applicants from the hiring pool. Without clearly identifying those skills that are an absolute minimum for the sheet metal workers best for your business, it is likely that many unqualified candidates will apply.

    Steps should be taken at the beginning of the process to ensure that by the time the interview process begins, only fully qualified candidates will be considered. No one, neither your company nor job seekers, wants to waste their time pursuing a position for which they aren’t qualified.

    Now is an ideal time to establish a hiring process that is set up to help your company find the right workers for your manufacturing business. Finding the best sheet metal workers does not have to be an impossible task. For metal sales your business can trust, contact our team today!

  3. What Are Tin Metal Strips Used for?

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    According to Global News Wire, sheet metal accounts for about $30 billion in United States revenue. This is probably because it has so many uses. For instance, this material is a great insulator and is also highly pliable. This makes it perfect for applications in transport, architecture, and a variety of other industries. Here are five uses of tin metal strips.

    Transportation Industry Uses

    Sheet metal has a lot of uses in the transportation industry. Primarily, these metal strips are used to manufacture the bodies of vehicles. They are also used to make railroad cars and airplanes. Did you know that some airplane wings are made using tin metal strips? This material is very light, and as mentioned before, it’s quite pliable. This enables it to fit into many applications in the transportation industry.

    Architecture

    Tin metal strips are also used in roofing. In fact, they are fantastic roofing materials. They are also very practical as a roofing option. Rain and flashing gutters are also made using sheet metal. Additionally, you will find that conductor pipes that direct water from buildings use the same material. These metal strips add a rich aesthetic appeal to designs. They are also highly efficient and functional. As mentioned before, tin is an excellent insulator.

    Jewelry

    Silver, platinum, and gold jewelry usually contain metal strips. In some instances, these strips are made using a combination of metals. These are commonly known as alloys. Tin alloys often go by different names. This includes Pewter, Britannia, and Levalloy. These three contain between 60% and 92% tin. You’ll also find smaller amounts of antimony, copper, and cadmium. The aim is to generally increase the hardness of metals and their strength as well. This is why combined metals that contain tin are perfect for jewelry; they preserve the luster of the pieces and strengthen the jewelry.

    Did you know that tin metal strips can be combined to create sheets of metal that are an excellent fire retardant? Because of its insulating capabilities, sheet metal is highly fire resistant. It can also be utilized as an insulator in furnaces and ductwork for HVACs. Are you wondering whether tin metal strips would be perfect for your application? Get in touch with us today.

  4. The Most Popular Metals Bought Today

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    Since the age of bronze, individuals have been looking for new ways to develop, refine, and use metals. Luckily, the quest has led to the discovery of different types of metal with different grades over the years. The various types of metals are used in applications only limited by our ability to be creative.

    Metals have become a fundamental component of our lives. We encounter different types of metals daily, from buildings to household appliances to infrastructure. According to Thin Metal Sales, metal consumers mostly purchase 3003 aluminum plates, sheets, tubes, bars, hot or cold-rolled steel, and stainless steel. Which among them are the most popular with consumers? Let’s explore four main metals commonly used today, where they’re used, and why.

    Aluminum

    Aluminum is a silver-white metal discovered in the 19th century. It’s lightweight and less dense compared to most other metals. Additionally, the metal is non-poisonous, corrosion resistant, non-magnetic, and has excellent electrical conductivity.

    Due to its properties, this metal has wide use in manufacturing spacecraft, airplanes, and missiles. Additionally, 3003 aluminum is also widely used in the construction of bridge building and used as a component in cellphones, computers, and other electronics.

    Stainless Steel

    Stainless steel is long-lasting and can bear heavy use. These qualities make this metal an excellent choice in industrial and commercial applications, where strength and longevity are paramount. Stainless steel also has low maintenance costs, which makes it an ideal material.

    Brass

    Similar to 3003 aluminum, brass is corrosion resistant and has high electrical conductivity. This metal is also formable and highly ductal, which makes it a great material used for commercial and aerospace items.

    Copper

    Copper is a highly malleable metal with excellent electrical conductivity. The latter property makes the metal good for use in the electrical field, especially in wiring. Thanks to being corrosion resistant, the metal has myriad uses in plumbing. Other uses include making things such as jewelry, cookware, and coins.

    While there is an array of metals, copper, aluminum, and steel are consumers’ favorites, thanks to their versatility and durability. If you own a manufacturing company and are in need of any of these metals mentioned, don’t wait to get in touch with us today.

  5. What Is Stainless Steel Used for?

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    As far as materials go, stainless steel is a versatile alloy used for a variety of functions. It has sheer strength, non-corrosiveness, cleanability, and remarkable heat resistance. That being said, there are several steel grades classification, all ranging in composition and practical use. The categories include martensitic, ferritic, duplex, precipitation-hardened, and austenitic. Excellent chemical and physical properties propel its universal nature in almost all sectors. Carry on to understand what stainless steel is used explicitly for in each industry:

    Households Appliances

    Generally speaking, an ordinary person interacts with stainless steel products regularly. For example, stainless steel is employed in making cutlery, cookware, and sinks for the kitchen. Kitchenware made from stainless steel is eye-catching and non-collusive, pushing its wide use in kitchenware manufacturing. Further, its high resistance nature does not damage the food with high acidity.

    Transportation and Infrastructure

    In transport, stainless steel is commonly used in manufacturing car bodies, ships, and trains due to its strength and durability. Railroad tracks, bridges, and ports are some more of the infrastructure made of stainless steel. Globally, car manufacturing industries have incorporated the use of stainless steel. According to Statista, in 2020, there was a sound production volume of over 1.86 billion metric tons of crude steel worldwide compared to 2019. As the demand goes high, there is an increase in steel purchases.

    Building and Construction

    Different steel grades can be customized and welded to meet the desired specifications for any project. In a standard building, steel is mainly used for attractive roofs, HVAC systems, and finishes for rails, stairs, and shelves. Of course, builders look forward to constructing quality homes for their clients. They use stainless steel due to its flexibility and strength — all things great for a durable build coveted by contractors.

    Healthcare

    Most healthcare equipment is made of stainless steel, thanks to effortless sterility and resistance. The list is endless, ranging from hemostats, dental crowns, IV stands, wheelchairs, operation stands, hospital beds, and surgical implants.

    Storage Tanks

    Corrosive chemicals and gases are a threat if not properly stored. Stainless steel tanks are used to hold corrosive substances, thus reducing the risks. When they keep food or water, they add no flavor or taste.

    Aerospace

    Stainless steel is light compared to other manufacturing materials. Hence, the alloy is used to make aero-related parts and screws. Maintaining an airplane with a steel body is easy since the steel components can withstand extreme temperatures.

    You cannot make a life without using one or two items made from steel. Reach out to us for detailed information about stainless steel and its services.

  6. Why the Sheet Metal Market Continues to Grow

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    According to recent research by Yahoo Finance, the sheet metal market is growing at a continuous average growth rate of 4.09%. The growing trends are mainly toward increased demand and more profits through various niche markets. More research conducted by a number of industry experts continues to highlight a range of meaningful insights into the current situation within the sheet market industry. Here are some things you may need to know.

    Increased Demand in Various Industries

    One of the reasons why the sheet metal industry keeps growing is increased demand. There are several industries that depend on thin sheet metal. Some of the high-demand industries include medical, industrial, aeronautics and construction. These are the main industries that are fueling the need for reliable thin sheet metal and related products. The more these industries require sheet metal products, the more the producers are pressed to keep delivering. This leads to increased revenue and profits for the involved players.

    Another factor leading to the increase in demand for thin sheet metal is the rapid increase in automobile production worldwide. Thin sheet metal plays a huge role in the manufacturing of vehicles. The same trend can be observed in the aerospace and defense industries, as well. These industries, together with the consumer electronics industry, are placing a huge demand on sheet metal manufacturers. This product is used in a vast variety of different consumer electronics applications — for instance, you’ll find thin sheet metal used for washing machines, microwaves, stoves, and pipelines, just to name a few. The increase in the manufacturing of these products has positively impacted the sheet metal market.

    Urbanization and Its Role

    Another reason why the sheet metal market keeps growing is the rapidly increasing urban population. This, coupled with an ever-increasing manufacturing sector, is leading to some serious market growth. With more people in urban areas, there is more construction, and that requires a lot of thin sheet metal. As highlighted by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the sheet metal industry is expected to add over 12,000 jobs to the sector in the next couple of years, which will help meet the demand and increase market growth even further.

    These are just a couple of the reasons why there’s continuous growth in the sheet metal industry and market. Are you interested in knowing more about the sheet metal industry, or maybe you need help finding thin sheet metal products? Get in touch with our team today, and we will help you find what you are looking for.

  7. How Does 17-7 Stainless Steel Differ From Its Counterparts?

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    According to the USGS, iron and steel constitute about 95% of all the tons of metal produced yearly in the U.S worldwide. This indicates a high demand for iron and steel in various industries. For instance, 17-7 stainless steel has various applications in the aerospace and general metal working industry. It’s also used for food processing, chemical processing, and oil and petroleum refining equipment. In this article, we explore 17-7 stainless and it’s differences from its counterparts.

    What Is 17-7 Stainless Steel?

    17-7 stainless steel is often compared to 304 stainless steel, but what’s the difference between the two? This type of steel has a mixed chemical composition that includes chromium, nickel, aluminum, manganese, silicon, carbon, phosphorous, sulfur, and iron. Heat treatments are often applied to harden this type of stainless steel, and the process typically involves conditioning with austenite, cooling, and then precipitation hardening. 17-7 stainless steel is regarded as having a high amount of strength and corrosion resistance. These properties make it suitable for manufacturing a wide range of products, such as springs, diaphragms, and washers. It’s the material of choice whenever highly specific and precise parts are required.

    Why Choose 7-17 Stainless Steel?

    It’s not hard to see why this type of stainless steel has a wide range of elaborate applications in various industries. For instance, 17-7 stainless steel is ideal for aerospace applications because of its high corrosion resistance, strength, and ability to be formed into meticulous parts. This type of stainless steel also meets aerospace requirements because of its ability to maintain its form even when exposed to high heat temperatures. 17-7 steel is also popularly used in food processing equipment, chemical processing equipment, oil, and petroleum refining equipment because it’s resistant to rust even with heavy use, it has high fatigue properties, and doesn’t wear and tear quickly.

    Finding the Right Supplier

    If you wish to benefit from the great qualities inherent in 17-7 steel, it’s important to ensure that you’re using the best steel for whatever purpose you may need it for. You should look for a supplier that produces quality steel with high corrosion resistance and high strength. The right supplier will ensure that the stainless steel on offer is precipitation hardened so that it also has high hardness and doesn’t get fatigued or distorted when exposed to high temperatures. If you’re looking for such a supplier, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Thin Metal Sales today.

  8. Why Domestic Raw Steel Production Continues to Rise

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    There’s no doubt that domestic raw steel production will keep rising. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute, as of April 9, 2022, the United States produced 1,739,000 net tons of steel, with a capability utilization rate of 79.7%. Why does steel production continue to rise? Here are some things you may want to consider.

    Demand for Items Made Using Steel Keeps Increasing

    Steel is used in many different applications. As the demand for things made of steel like cars and machinery keeps rising, the domestic steel industry has to rise to the occasion. There is increasing demand for things like vehicles, appliances, and construction products. All these are made using steel, and unless people find alternative materials to use, the demand will keep rising. It’s almost impossible to imagine a world without steel. In fact, making steel in large quantities and thin steel sheet structures is commonly considered as the beginning of the modern industrial era.

    Steel Is the Basis of Modern Industry

    Today’s world depends on the reliability of steel for almost every aspect of progress. This is why steel is one of the most important materials for developing an orderly modern lifestyle. Closer observation reveals that the need for steel intensifies as society develops. As such, it will be right to assume that modern society will continue to utilize large amounts of steel for the foreseeable future. Steel has survived the test of time because it remains one of the materials with the broadest range of applications.

    The Future

    As a product, steel has shown itself to be quite versatile. After centuries of being in use, it still excels in areas like strength and excellent value. One of the reasons why domestic raw steel production keeps increasing is that the industry believes that new opportunities for using steel will keep materializing. In fact, some are already in the process of development. A good example would be the use of lightweight steel netting to capture the so-called space junk. There are already prototypes of fully automated cargo ships that are being tested. Apart from such activities, there are also prototypes of modularized dwellings made from thin steel sheet-like sides that will be developed in factories and transported to sites where they will expand into dwelling sites.

    The demand for steel keeps rising because the material has many applications. It only makes sense for the industry to keep producing more raw steel to meet the demand. Are you looking for a thin steel sheet supplier? Contact our team at Thin Metal Sales today, and we will point you in the right direction.

  9. The Environmental Benefits of Brass and Copper

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    According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in the metal fabrication industry is expected to increase by 12,000 over the next 10 years. Some of the success experienced by the metal fabrication industry stems from the environmentally-conscious process. Take copper, for instance. Copper and its alloy brass offer the following benefits to the environment. Here are a few of these environmental benefits.

    They Can Be Recycled

    The biggest benefit of brass and copper to the environment is that they can be recycled. Keep in mind that copper is a base metal while brass is an alloy of copper, which is made by mixing copper and zinc. Today, there’s a high demand for copper, and some of that demand is met by the production of recycled copper. In fact, copper is one of the most commonly recycled metals, and this offers several benefits since the process of recycling copper is less energy-intensive than manufacturing copper from scratch. In addition, the copper recycling process has fewer steps in it, which also results in economic benefits to relevant industries.

    They Save Energy

    Through the recycling of copper and its alloys, less energy is used. Recycling just one tonne of copper can result in a significant reduction in energy consumption compared to the amount of energy that would be used to mine, extract, and process the same amount of copper. Using less energy means the demand for fossil fuels also goes down. The burning of fossil fuels is one of the largest contributors to increased levels of carbon dioxide, which in turn results in climate change that has brought about global warming and higher sea levels.

    They Retain Their Quality

    As mentioned, copper and brass can be recycled to reduce environmental waste. The good news is that the recycling process doesn’t lower the quality of the copper metal. One of the steps in the recycling process is purification to ensure a high-quality final product without any contaminants. In most instances, copper can be recycled over and over again without losing its quality, so recycling copper can help eliminate wasteful production processes.

    These are the top benefits of brass and copper. As the industrial landscape and the world become, increasingly green, environmentally friendly processes like recycling are also becoming top success factors in metal fabrication. Get in touch with us today to learn more about brass and copper and how they can help reduce your environmental footprint and to purchase these metals for your industry.

  10. What Is Copper Sheet Metal Used for?

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    The industry of manufacturing metal products is very important to the economy. The installation and upkeep of the electrical systems in our homes and other buildings would be significantly more challenging in the absence of aluminum, brass, and copper, as well as materials made of thin steel sheets and stainless steel.

    According to the projections made by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry of metal fabrication will expand by 9% between the years 2016 and 2026. With more copper sheet metal for sale available, let’s look at what it is and what it’s used for.

    What Is Copper Sheet Metal?

    Copper sheet metal is consistently one of the most popular options among the other available metals. The malleable metal is easily identifiable by its one-of-a-kind color, which has an orangey hue. Additionally, it is available in various thicknesses determined by the applications.

    Even more useful is that the suppliers of the copper sheet metal for sale can cut it to the desired dimensions and provide you with the exact size you require.

    Uses of Copper Sheet Metal

    Copper sheet metal for sale is made from mined copper ore that goes through cleaning, crushing, milling, several chemical processes, purifying, and melting. Copper sheet metal for sale is typically purchased by manufacturers, artisans, and builders. Copper is used for a wide variety of purposes, including the following:

    • Architecture: Due to its non-ferrous nature, builders confidently employ copper for exterior features.
    • Automotive: Copper is high in electrical conductivity, which raises its demand in the automotive industry.
    • Home Improvement: Copper’s reddish-brown color complements any interior design.
    • Electrical: Copper, the second-most conductive metal, has a high thermal expansion coefficient and does not burn when carrying high voltage.
    • Electronics: Home and office electronics may contain high frequency and ultra-high-frequency tubes, printed circuits, and base brazing, which is why they may use copper.
    • Energy and Petrochemical Industries: Copper alloys are popular in corrosive-medium containers, offshore drilling platforms, and other undersea installations because it resists salt water corrosion.
    • Manufacturing and power plants: Copper is useful and highly popular for heat exchangers, copper printing machines, fermentation tank lining, and copper distillation pots in wineries.
    • Plumbing: Copper’s non-ferrous nature makes it useful for water purification and filtration tubes and pipes.
    • Transportation: Special types of copper resist fouling, which can increase ship weight and reduce buoyancy.

    Copper is very resistant to corrosion, and it is flexible. Copper sheet metal for sale and its fabricated components is the metal of choice for dozens of applications. Contact us today to purchase your own copper sheet metal.