Tools and machines for sheet metal and metalworking

During the processing of sheet metal and other metal elements various tools and machines are used.

In the craft sector, a distinction is made between hand tools such as iron saws, pliers, hammers, and files as well as power tools such as percussion drills, soldering irons, welding guns, grinders, and cutting equipment.

In the industrial sector, processing is done with the help of machine tools such as:

• Metal band saws,
• Milling machines,
• Lathes,
• Bending machines,
• Grinding machines,
• Drill presses, and
• Pipe cutting machines.

These machines enable significantly higher piece counts than hand-held tools. Many now have computer control, which ensures consistently high quality over a large number of parts.

It is often possible to digitize old machines as part of a so-called retrofit process. This also enables smaller metal and sheet metal processing companies to tap into the benefits of Industry 4.0 for themselves.