Types of Joining and Assembly in Metal Manufacturing

There are many important aspects of manufacturing that need to be considered in order for it to be profitable for the company. As we have discussed in previous blog posts about the importance of good Manufacturing Drawings and Product Engineering and Design, another important aspect is how the parts get assembled together. This might not seem like a huge deal in the grand scheme of things, but think about it… If a product is poorly assembled, it jeopardizes the quality, functionality, and longevity of the product.

A product’s components could be perfectly engineered and designed and within budget, but if the method of assembly is not ideal or done cheaply, it could ruin the perfectly engineered and designed parts…making it all worthless. So this blog is used to illustrate the various types of mechanical assembly that is popular in today’s manufacturing. We are not suggesting that one method is better than the other, but merely describing the different types that are available. On the other hand, the functionality of the part, number of components, and other factors, should determine which method is best.

  • Mechanical (hardware) Assembly: Uses various different types of hardware or fasteners (bolts, nuts, screws, etc.) to assemble multiple parts together. This method is great for an assembly that is not permanent, needs maintenance, adjustments, and replaceable parts because it allows the flexibility to remove and reinstall hardware. This is great for chassis, box assemblies, and water tight assemblies.
  • Weld Assembly: Fuses two or more pieces of metal together to essentially become one. This method is great for an assembly that is permanent, structural, and needs strength. This assembly method is great for structural and robust assemblies.
  • Spot Weld Assembly: Joins and bonds two pieces of sheet metal together. This method is less permanent than regular welding and less expensive, but more permanent that hardware assembly. This assembly method is great for cabinets, brackets, and other sheet metal components.
  • Rivet Assembly: Has similar but less strength than a weld, and also cheaper. This method is great for assembles that need shear strength and for assembles that use different types of material. This assembly method is preferred for structural and robust assemblies that encounter fluctuating temperature and pressure.
  • Brazing / Soldering Assembly: Uses a filler metal that is melted to a certain temperature which will bond the two components together. This is a great way to bond two different types of metals together while still keeping the strength, like a weld. This type of assembly method is used for pipes for plumbing, flashing, gutters, electronic parts, and jewelry.

These various assembly methods give options to how permanent, temporary, costly, and inexpensive an assembled part or product can be. When determining which method to use, it is very important to take a look at the types of metals you are using because different applications may work better than others. Also, the durability and strength of the product can also play a major role in the assembly type to use. The assembly types mentioned above are not all, but merely commonly used methods. If you have other methods you would like to add or have questions on, feel free to comment below! Thank you for following along!

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  1. Pingback: Flange Management In A Process Plant | kyinbridges.com

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