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Author Archives: Jody Key

  1. The Importance of Precision Medical Device Manufacturing

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    The Importance of Precision Medical Device Manufacturing

    Medical instruments, equipment, and devices have strict specifications for materials, dimensions, tolerances, and finishing processes. They must be safe for critical healthcare applications and meet US and international standards in order to be brought to market.

    Manufacturers serving the medical industry use several processes to achieve highly precise and accurate parts and components. Here, we’ll take a closer look at precision in medical manufacturing and some of the tools and operations used to achieve the highest quality components.

    What Is Precision Manufacturing?

    Precision is how closely parts match each other in terms of their finished dimensions. High precision means parts have little to no variation within a batch or production run. Achieving high precision is possible in manufacturing with computerized and automated equipment, such as laser cutting, programmable CNC equipment, and laser welding.

    Ideally, components will also have a high level of accuracy, meaning the finished parts very closely match the design on the part print and correspond to dimensions and tolerances. Achieving both high precision and accuracy is the goal in medical device machining and manufacturing, regardless of the equipment and processes that are used.

    The Importance of Precision Manufacturing for Medical Devices

    Manufacturing for precision and accuracy is critical in medical applications to ensure proper function, long service life, patient safety, and compliance with regulations and standards.

    Whether part of an assembly, instrument, enclosure, or other medical component, the more accurate it is, the better it will function in the real world. Likewise, higher precision makes it more likely that all finished devices or equipment in a batch or production run will function correctly.

    Precision and accuracy come into play in every aspect of medical manufacturing. Some examples include removing small amounts of material to achieve hole diameters, forming proper bend angles and minimizing springback, or correctly locating welds in critical components. In most cases, the machines’ movements are controlled by computer programs. This makes each process highly repeatable and efficient because it avoids human fatigue, error, and variation.

    Some examples include:

    • CNC medical precision machining: Subtractive operations, such as drilling, boring, cutting, milling, or turning, remove material from a workpiece to achieve part features and dimensions. All movements, blade angles, and operations are based on a computer-aided drafting (CAD) file of the part that is translated into coded instructions the CNC machine follows over and over.
    • Electromechanical Discharge Machining (EDM): An electrical discharge, or spark, between the electrode and workpiece creates thermal energy to remove material, forming complex or intricate shapes that are hard to achieve with standard CNC machining.
    • Laser cutting: The high heat of the laser cuts through and vaporizes substrate material to form an exact shape. The laser can be programmed for accuracy and efficient material use. This process leaves a clean edge that requires little additional finishing.
    • Laser welding: A high heat laser beam is concentrated to a small point to make accurate welds with a minimal heat affected zone (HAZ) on the material. It produces clean joints that rarely need additional grinding or polishing.
    • Additive manufactured prototyping: A special printer deposits a stack of very thin layers of polymer or powdered metal to create a test model of a part. This is an effective way to test design functionality and identify possible points of physical stress or failure prior to full production.

    Benefits of Using Precision Machining for Medical Devices

    Advantages of precision machining include:

    • Improved part uniformity: CNC and other computerized machining, laser cutting, and welding use the same operations and parameters on each cycle so there is very little variation between cycles.
    • Enhanced speed, efficiency, and production volumes: High-speed equipment performs operations more quickly than a person can and does not become fatigued.
    • Minimized human error: CNC machines use computers programmed with instructions so that all movements, cuts, and dimensions are consistent from part to part. This minimizes the risks of human error or inconsistency.
    • Minimal waste: Computer-controlled manufacturing processes can be programmed to use material efficiently for less waste. Their high precision and accuracy also result in less scrap and rework.

    Precision Machining for Medical Devices From H&S Manufacturing

    At H&S Manufacturing, we work with a variety of tools and techniques for automated and semi-automated medical device machining, including CNC and EDM machining, laser cutting, laser welding, and additive manufacturing. Our capabilities also include mechanical and electromechanical assembly, sheet metal fabrication, and several secondary and finishing services.

    Contact us to discuss your next medical device machining project or to request a quote.

  2. CNC Lathe Machines — What You Need to Know

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    CNC Lathe Machines — What You Need to Know

    Automation technology plays a substantial role in modern industrial production. Computer numerical control (CNC) machining has long been one of the driving forces of automation in the manufacturing sector, as the various CNC processes allow businesses to produce large volumes of high-quality, accurate, and repeatable goods in complex shapes. Learn more about lathe machining and the advantages of the process for diverse industries.

    How CNC Lathes Operate

    While manual lathing processes require an expert machinist to make high-quality cuts, CNC lathe machining achieves unmatched precision and repeatability. In CNC lathe operations, a computer translates a part’s design into highly detailed instructions that the automated lathe machine will follow exactly. Directing the movement of the rotating workpiece and cutting tools, these pre-programmed instructions detail the required cutting path of the tool, along with the proper depth, velocity, and other factors to generate a part per your specifications.

    CNC lathes are quite versatile, facilitating the following processes:

    • Cutting and shaping. Lathing machines apply one or more stationary cutting tools against a rotating workpiece. As part of the subtractive manufacturing process, the tools carve away excess material with precision to leave behind a cylindrical part in the exact desired shape, with a central axis of symmetry. Common examples of lathed components include shafts, gears, and axles.
    • Drilling. When you secure a drill bit to a lathe, you can then drill circular holes in a workpiece. These holes are useful for fasteners like screws and bolts.
    • Facing. Facing tools on the lathe’s mounting system generate uniform cuts on the surface of a workpiece, generally decreasing the part’s length.
    • Knurling. Utilizing a roller with raised spikes, knurling processes pierce holes in a workpiece to texturize its surface.
    • Sanding. This finishing process creates a smooth surface on a part by rotating a workpiece pressed against an abrasive material or tool.

    Materials

    The CNC lathe machining process is compatible with a wide range of materials, including:

    • Stainless steel
    • Galvanized steel
    • Cold rolled steel
    • Hot rolled steel
    • Aluminum
    • Brass
    • Copper
    • Plastics
    • Reinforced epoxy (FR4)

    Applications of CNC Lathe Machines

    CNC lathe machining is a versatile, effective production option across major industries. Some of the markets that use CNC lathing to produce high-quality components include the following:

    • Aerospace. The aerospace industry demands tight-tolerance components to safely fulfill the needs of mission-critical applications, and CNC lathing can successfully achieve that.
    • Automotive. Pistons, gears, brake drums, and shafting parts for vehicles are all components that CNC lathe machining can create uniformly.
    • Electronics. The small and intricate components within electronic devices require precision manufacturing. CNC lathing makes heat sinks, shafts, and more.
    • Medical. Precision devices are essential for healthcare applications, and CNC lathing is capable of producing everything from surgical tools to implants for the medical sector.
    • General manufacturing. CNC lathing supports the manufacturing market by creating cylindrically shaped parts in high volumes for diverse industries.

    Advantages of CNC Lathe Machines

    Some of the key benefits of using CNC lathing are:

    • Superior accuracy. One of the main benefits of CNC lathing is that computer-controlled lathes generate precise, repeatable, high-quality parts with tight tolerances.
    • Enhanced productivity and efficiency. Automated CNC lathes operate at high speeds without needing breaks or vacations like human workers, making lathing a good choice for high-volume projects. Lathing streamlines production, delivering optimal efficiency and throughput.
    • Complexity. CNC lathing equipment can produce components with highly complex designs and shapes as well as intricate details, especially compared to manual alternatives.
    • Cost-effectiveness. Automated machining is more precise and less reliant on manual labor, which means you’ll benefit from decreased labor costs and material waste.
    • Safety. As automated CNC lathes only require minimal human intervention to operate, they are much safer and less likely to cause worker injuries.

    CNC Lathe Machining From H&S Manufacturing

    Providing high-quality contract manufacturing services since 1968, H&S Manufacturing Co. specializes in precision CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, laser cutting, testing, finishing, final assembly, and more to create innovative, comprehensive solutions for our clients. Our ITAR-compliant, well-equipped facility features advanced, specialized machinery to support our custom manufacturing capabilities, integrating CNC and laser cutting. In addition to CNC lathes, we operate vertical and horizontal CNC machining centers, lasers, and brake, drill, and punch presses. Our expert team produces CNC-machined parts in dimensions of up to 24″ x 24″ x 12″ with tight tolerances of ±0.001″ (0.0254 mm).

    Contact us to learn more about our extensive CNC capabilities, or request a quote on our lathe machining services today.

  3. What Is Tapping in CNC?

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    What Is Tapping in CNC?

    The tapping process fulfills many important functions for industries that depend on precision-engineered threaded parts. Computer numerical control (CNC) machines enhance the accuracy and consistency of tapping in manufacturing, improving quality and making finer threads and tighter tolerances possible, even at mass-production volumes. Learn more about this versatile process, its benefits, and the markets that CNC tapping supports.

    What Is CNC Tapping?

    Tapping is a manufacturing technique for cutting threads into the walls of rounded drilled holes using a tap. CNC tapping follows pre-programmed computerized instructions to operate and precisely control the tap, making accurate internal threads per the needs of your application. The hole will be chamfered to eliminate rough edges and allow for an optimal fit with other threaded components like bolts and screws.

    Benefits of CNC Tapping

    In manufacturing, CNC tapping delivers numerous advantages for parts production. Primary benefits of CNC tapping include:

    • High-quality replicability and consistency. The CNC tapping process achieves consistent internal thread quality, reducing part variability and meeting tight tolerance windows. It’s also possible to save and reemploy a tapping program on a later production run for optimal repeatability.
    • Heightened productivity. Automated CNC tapping machines operate at much higher speeds than manual processes, resulting in maximum throughput and threading rates.
    • Flexibility. This process is capable of generating many types of threads in holes with various features and dimensions, making tapping highly versatile for achieving most tapping application requirements.
    • Minimized errors and scrap. CNC machines are highly precise, making accurate and controlled movements. Their capacity for repeatable production minimizes errors during manufacturing, equating to less part rework and scrap waste.
    • Safer operations. Controlling tapping machinery with computers minimizes human-machine interaction and keeps operators safe from hand tapping accidents.

    Common Applications of CNC Tapping

    CNC tapping fulfills the needs of numerous industries’ manufacturing applications, for products such as the following:

    • Aerospace parts. The aerospace industry demands repeatable, precision products for mission-critical applications. CNC tapping is capable of achieving identical threads with tight tolerances for landing gear, engine parts, aircraft structural components, and more.
    • Optics devices. CNC tapping in engineering can achieve precision down to the micron level, making it a suitable process for creating various casings, lens mounts, and adjustment devices for everything from prisms and lasers to microscopes and telescopes.
    • Automotive components. Accuracy and the ability to create high volumes of uniform components are important qualities for automotive manufacturing. CNC thread tapping is indispensable for transmission housings, cylinder heads, and engine blocks at full-scale production.
    • Telecommunication and electronic devices. Threading for sensitive or miniature electronic components, devices, connectors, and housings requires the precision that CNC tapping provides.
    • Healthcare devices. The medical sector often requires that its devices feature fine threads of exact dimensions. Many prosthetics, surgical devices, and MRI components benefit from precision CNC tapping.
    • Oil and gas components. Precise and reliable tapping is important for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of threaded oil and gas parts like pumps, valves, pipes, and meters at extraction sites and refineries.
    • Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders. Creating threaded connection points and part ends for large amounts of hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders is more efficient with CNC tapping.
    • Valves and pipe fittings. Plumbing manufacturers rely on CNC tapping to quickly and accurately produce high volumes of threaded valve bodies, pipe fittings, sprinkler heads, and related components.
    • Dies and molds. Forging dies, injection molds, and other manufacturing tools and equipment rely on CNC tapping to apply threading to fitted components like core bolts and ejector pins.

    Precision CNC Tapping Services From H&S Manufacturing

    The CNC tapping process is essential for numerous precision engineering and mass-production manufacturing applications. Achieving quality results with the correct thread depth, pitch, and chamfer depends on the precision control made possible through advanced CNC tapping equipment.

    Since 1968, H&S Manufacturing Co. has specialized in producing custom components to meet the exacting specifications and unique needs of our client base. For demanding industries ranging from aerospace to medical, we’re proud to offer high-quality threaded parts tailored to your application. In addition to CNC tapping, our diversified contract manufacturing and precision machining services extend to milling, boring, drilling, lapping, welding, plating, heat-treating, painting, and silk screening.

    To learn how we optimize products for quality, reliability, appearance, innovation, and cost reduction, contact us or request a quote on our CNC tapping services today.

  4. What Is Milling?

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    What Is Milling?

    Milling is one of the most popular fabrication methods used across a range of industries because of its unique advantages. With milling, companies can create high-quality custom components made with various materials to meet their needs.

    Milling involves the removal of material from a stock workpiece using a rotating cutting tool. In this subtractive fabrication process, the workpiece forms the desired final shape after the removal of enough material. Modern milling machines often work in conjunction with computer numerical control (CNC) technology to increase automation, precision, quality, and consistency of the produced parts.

    Here we’ll discuss the benefits and applications of milling operations across a diverse range of industries.

    Benefits of Milling

    Many applications require milling solutions because of the specific benefits they offer over other types of processes. These advantages include:

    • Versatility: This manufacturing process offers more versatility, with the ability to create many types of shapes out of varying materials. Other processes like additive manufacturing or 3D printing have material restrictions that limit design flexibility.
    • Precision: Medical, aerospace, and other industries require high-precision designs in their components and end products, which CNC milling can produce.
    • Efficiency: Milling is also highly efficient, allowing you to develop top-quality parts and components much faster than you could with alternative manufacturing methods. As such, this process is ideal for large-volume production runs.
    • Superior Quality: Milling operations offer better quality than what you would get with less precise and accurate processes, eliminating the need for additional finishing.
    • Automation: With the assistance of programmable CNC machines, the milling process can be completely automated, which reduces the need for manual intervention while increasing productivity.
    • Greater Consistency: Another advantage of milling is more repeatability to produce parts of consistent quality.
    • Cost-effectiveness: The reduced need for human labor and increased productivity translate into overall cost reduction, making the end product more profitable.
    • Ability to Machine Hard Materials: CNC milling equipment can work with many types of materials of varying hardness, including Inconel, steel, and titanium. These materials are much more difficult to effectively machine using other types of fabrication techniques.

    Industries Served

    A wide range of industries and applications use milling to manufacture parts and components, including:

    Aerospace

    CNC milling helps manufacture many components that allow for safe flight while adhering to weight restrictions. Applications for milled parts in this industry could include everything from prototypes and replacement components to manifolds, transmissions, and aircraft frames. CNC milling helps fabricate even the most intricate parts using lightweight, high-strength materials such as aluminum.

    Energy

    This industry often relies on milling operations for producing large volumes of parts for oil and gas equipment, natural gas pipelines, nuclear energy plants, and more. Additionally, energy suppliers may use this process to develop parts for use in solar, wind, and hydropower systems, allowing for more efficient energy production.

    Agriculture

    Farming components such as incubator parts, gearboxes, and transmission housings depend on CNC milling for fabrication.

    Automotive

    Automotive manufacturers and OEMs often use CNC milling to manufacture water pumps, cylinders, piston rods, engine blocks, vehicle headlights, and interior lighting.

    Medical

    Manufacturers of medical equipment often need complex designs fabricated with high precision, which CNC milling offers. Parts made with plastic and metal materials benefit from CNC milling’s efficiency and precision, helping produce equipment and instruments of all types.

    Military

    Pistol locking mechanisms, drones, weapon components, and many other military applications frequently utilize CNC milling in their fabrication.

    Reliable Milling Services from H&S Manufacturing

    Want to benefit from high-quality CNC milling services for your application? H&S Manufacturing offers custom manufacturing solutions, specializing in milling operations, sheet metal fabrication, mechanical and electromechanical assembly, and testing. Whether your project is for a military, medical, aerospace, or other application, we can design and fabricate products to your unique specifications.

    Contact us today for more information about our capabilities, or request a quote to get started on a new project with our team.

  5. Aerospace Foreign Object Damage – AS9146 Compliance

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    Aerospace Foreign Object Damage – AS9146 Compliance

    Foreign Object Damage (FOD) is a major concern in aviation, aerospace, and defense craft and operating environments, including maintenance facilities, airfields, and aircraft manufacturing plants. FOD can risk the safety of personnel and cause serious damage, including direct damage to aircraft parts like sensors and engines. Indirect costs of FOD include delays, increased maintenance, and risk of injury to personnel.

    Managing FOD effectively can minimize operational interruptions, prevent safety breaches, and minimize repair costs. Read on to learn more about how you can protect your aircraft, personnel, and facilities from unforeseen damage.

    Understanding FOD

    FOD is any object, particle, substance, or agent that could cause economic or physical damage to an aircraft. The acronym “FOD” can refer to foreign objects or the damage caused by said objects. This includes wildlife strikes during operation, debris on the runway, or maintenance tools inadvertently left in the aircraft.

    Minimizing and managing FOD can take many forms. Best practices include taking proactive measures to control wildlife near airports, utilizing strict tool control protocols, and meticulously cleaning work zones.

    AS9146 Standard and FOD

    The FOD Prevention Program requirements defined by AS9146 standards provide guidelines for organizations involved in the development and design of defense, space, and aviation products and services. Under this standard, organizations must conduct thorough risk assessments for FOD, establish mechanisms for continuous monitoring, and encourage a culture of awareness and prevention.

    AS9146 compliance increases safety and operational integrity by addressing FOD risks systematically at each stage in product development, handling, and delivery. The AS9146 standard is intended to complement common customer specifications and their applicable regulatory and statutory requirements, rather than replace them.

    FOD in Manufacturing

    FOD risks can significantly impact the efficiency of production processes and product quality in manufacturing. Proper control and management of FOD in manufacturing are critical in reducing the risk of product damage and avoiding unintended costs or delays.

    FOD management protocols to integrate into manufacturing procedures and processes include:

    • Routine inspections of the facility
    • Using the proper equipment
    • Personnel training
    • Strict tool and part controls
    • Organization and cleanliness
    • Work area oversight

    Some valuable best practices to prevent FOD in aerospace manufacturing include using protective coverings during sensitive part assembly, utilizing magnetic sweepers to collect metal debris, and establishing clean zones to carry out critical operations.

    FOD Detection Systems

    The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) evaluates various detection technologies as they serve to elevate safety standards in aerospace applications. Major U.S. airports use automated FOD detection systems to detect and remove hazardous foreign object debris before they can damage aircraft. Optical sensors and radar help teams monitor surfaces at the airport for FOD, providing real-time monitoring and alerts to airport operation centers.

    The FAA highlights the critical nature of integrating technology in FOD management protocols to maintain airport operations and enhance airfield safety.

    Take Action Against FOD: Join Us in Leading Aerospace Safety and Compliance

    A preventative approach is critical to safeguard operations and ensure compliance with AS9146 standards. Implementing FOD management practices with a trusted partner can help you manage risk and remain competitive in the aerospace industry.

    H&S Manufacturing offers various solutions to meet your organization’s FOD management and control needs. Our services include precision forming, shearing, punching, extruding, bending, notching, welding, and graining, as well as assembly and finishing.

    Contact us or request a quote to learn how our expertise in aerospace manufacturing can help you reduce costs and maintain the highest quality and safety standards.

  6. The Uses of Custom Sheet Metal in the Aerospace Industry

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    The Uses of Custom Sheet Metal in the Aerospace Industry

    In the aerospace industry, precision and consistency are critical to manufacturing and assembling safe, reliable aircraft. Aerospace parts must provide long-lasting performance while tolerating humidity, extreme temperatures, and high mechanical stresses. At H&S Manufacturing, we leverage our precision machining capabilities to produce custom sheet metal fabrications that comply with the aerospace industry’s rigorous safety and quality standards. Our AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified facility is equipped to handle everything from prototyping to full production, with services like shearing, punching, precision laser cutting, extruding, notching, and other fabrication techniques.

    In this blog, we’ll highlight the applications and benefits of our precision sheet metal fabrication services in the aviation & aerospace industries.

    Sheet Metal for AerospaceAerospace Industry

    Metal materials used in aircraft construction are selected based on several factors, including durability, strength-to-weight ratio, and corrosion resistance. The metal’s structural integrity must also be capable of withstanding exposure to the high pressures and extreme temperatures encountered during flight. Three commonly used sheet metals in this industry are aluminum, stainless steel, and brass. 

    Aluminum: Aluminum is a lightweight, electrically conductive metal that can be strengthened and enhanced through the addition of various alloying elements. The most popular aluminum alloys in aircraft construction are 7075, 7475-02, and 6061, all of which exhibit excellent resistance to fatigue resistance and damage. Specific aerospace applications of aluminum sheet metal include: 

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    Sheet Metal Uses In Aerospace Industry

    • Wing panes
    • Fuselage
    • Rudder
    • Doors and floors
    • Engine turbines
    • Cockpit instrumentation
    • Seats
    • Exhaust pipes

    Stainless steel: Stainless steel is a group of corrosion-resistant iron-carbon alloys containing 10-30% chromium. Because they maintain superior mechanical properties over a wide temperature range, stainless steel alloys are ideal for enduring the harsh conditions of continuous flight. Applications of stainless steel sheet metal manufacturing in the aviation aerospace industry include: 

    • Airframes
    • Landing gear
    • Jet engines

    Brass: Brass is a copper-zinc alloy with excellent hardness, workability, corrosion, and temperature resistance. This alloy performs well in harsh settings, making it ideal for aerospace environments. Applications of brass sheet metal manufacturing in aircraft construction include:

    • Wheel and brake components
    • Landing gear
    • Cargo doors
    • Casings for electrical components

    Benefits

    Aviation sheet metal fabrication is an intricate process that requires precision equipment and close attention to detail. Custom metal stamping and forming techniques are particularly well suited for sheet metal fabricated products since they allow for precise cutting and shaping while eliminating surface defects. Other benefits of metal stamping and forming include:

    • Affordability: Metal stamping and forming are highly cost-effective, especially for large-scale production runs where the dies can be reused.
    • Quick setup: With short setup times, metal stamping and forming processes ensure quick turnaround times for sheet metal manufacturing and fabrication.
    • High accuracy: The custom dies and tools used for metal stamping ensure excellent precision and tight dimensional tolerances. Cold forming can achieve superior levels of precision since it eliminates any heat-related warping.

    To maximize the benefits of sheet metal fabrication, it is important to choose materials that meet the functional and environmental requirements of a given aerospace application. Aluminum, stainless steel, and brass each have distinct advantages: 

    • Aluminum
      • Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
      • Resistance to corrosion, UV radiation, and moisture
      • Malleability
      • Low cost
      • Well-documented properties
      • Simple to inspect
      • Easy to replace or repair
      • Recyclable 
    • Stainless steel
      • Corrosion resistance
      • Generally stronger and more durable than aluminum
      • Low maintenance
      • Aesthetically appealing
    • Brass
      • Performs well at high temperatures
      • Great conductor of heat and electricity
      • Spark resistance
      • Corrosion resistance

    Sheet Metal Fabrication Services at H&S Manufacturing

    For over 50 years, H&S Manufacturing has built employee trust, earned customer loyalty, and improved our sheet metal fabrication processes. By investing in the latest sheet metal manufacturing methods and equipment, we ensure cost-effective, compliant, and reliable sheet metal fabrications for a range of mission-critical aerospace applications. To complement our core manufacturing capabilities, we also offer secondary services to optimize your sheet metal fabricated products for their intended environment.

    To learn more about our sheet metal fabrication services and other capabilities, please contact us today.

  7. Top Reasons to Use Sheet Metal In The Medical Industry

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    Top Reasons to Use Sheet Metal In The Medical Industry

    At H&S Manufacturing, we deliver superior custom sheet metal fabrication manufacturing for many industries, including the medical industry. We are AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified to ensure optimal quality and compliance with strict medical industry standards. We specialize in everything from prototyping to large volume production, relying on our extruding, notching, graining, precision laser cutting, punching, and shearing expertise. Because of the many benefits of sheet metal fabrication, it is used throughout the medical industry for a wide range of applications. 

    Benefits of Using Sheet Metal in the Medical Industry

    The medical industry depends on custom sheet metal fabrication to create highly specific and precise equipment and tools. H&S Manufacturing’s high precision custom sheet metal fabrication services deliver products that meet the high standards and specifications of the medical industry. Our custom sheet metal fabrication offers several advantages to the medical industry, including: 

    • Fast Turnaround Time. The medical industry depends on quick yet precise fabrication processes. Our sheet metal fabrication services ensure that hospitals and medical facilities can keep up with the demands of their patients and have consistent access to high-precision tools and equipment.
    • High Accuracy and Precision. The medical industry requires precise and accurate surgical tools, supplies, and equipment to perform specialized tasks. Sheet metal fabrication allows us to meet the demands of the medical industry.
    • Improved Customization. Sheet metal has higher pliability, bendability, and overall flexibility than other types of metal. Its versatility allows us to create almost any part, tool, or instrument and fabricate components with high specificity.
    • Durability. Medical sheet metal has excellent longevity and is durable enough to withstand collisions, extreme temperatures, and various other environmental conditions.

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    Top Reasons to Use Sheet Metal In Medical Industry

    Applications for Sheet Metal in the Medical Industry

    At H&S Manufacturing, we deliver high-precision products using our unique sheet metal fabrication process. We meet the demands of the medical industry by providing products for many types of medical devices, equipment, and instruments, including:

    • Ultrasound Machines. Diagnostic scanning systems help technicians study and identify internal organs. Sheet metal fabrication can deliver precise and high-quality ultrasound diagnostic devices for patient care.
    • Ablation System. Ablation is a minimally invasive therapy that uses extreme cold, heat, or laser energy to destroy tissue abnormalities. Kidney stone and abnormal heartbeat treatments rely on ablation. Stainless steel fabrication delivers the high-precision that is essential to create ablation systems.
    • Patient Alignment Systems. Patient alignment systems are used to position radiation beams and lasers for oncology treatments. Sheet metal fabricators must abide by strict guidelines when designing alignment systems for medical use.
    • Nuclear Medicine Cabinets. Nuclear medicine cabinets are lead-encased cabinets with a stainless steel body for disposing of hazardous material safely. A circular 4-inch chute allows for convenient disposal by medical staff.
    • Control System Solutions. These automated machine products consist of various sensors, switches, and levers. These systems require high precision, durability, and reliability for medical applications, which can be achieved through sheet metal fabrication.
    • Image Reconstruction Systems. These systems manipulate data from body scans using mathematical equations. Surgeons rely on the results to visually reconstruct breasts, knees, hearts, and other body parts. High accuracy is essential to calibrate the systems.
    • Medical Imaging Equipment. Spectrometry scan equipment, CT scan machines, and PET scan machines rely on sheet metal fabrication to maintain their efficiency and accuracy while meeting strict statistical process control specifications.

    Quality Industrial Sheet Metal Fabrication by H&S Manufacturing

    Sheet metal fabrication is an excellent manufacturing method for various medical devices and equipment. H&S Manufacturing has been delivering high-precision custom sheet metal fabrication services since 1968. We rely on the leading engineering and manufacturing technology to produce exacting tolerances with complex part designs. Contact us to learn more about our sheet metal fabricator capabilities or request a quote today.

  8. Sheet Metal Design Guidelines: All You Need to Know

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    Sheet Metal Design Guidelines: All You Need to Know

    In a day and age where fast production is the key to volume success, sheet metal fabrication has quickly become a key component of that process.

    Sheet metal fabrication is essentially the mechanical process used to turn large portions of the material, like alloys, aluminum, and other metals, and turn them into smaller, more specific components of larger products.

    Imagine turning a block of steel into military bullets. That’s what sheet metal fabrication can do for a variety of industries, from military and defense to lighting and home improvement.

    Sheet Metal Design

    Sheet Metal Forming Basics

    Sheet metal fabrication transforms metal sheets into different tangible parts through actions like punching, cutting, stamping, and bending.

    3D CAD files are translated into machine code, which instructs a machine to accurately cut and shape the sheet into the final product.

    Bending and wall thickness are two of the most essential things to consider before beginning the fabrication process

    Bending

    Bending employs the use of a press brake machine to apply force to the sheet metal. The pressure from the brake bends the sheet metal at specified angles to form the final product. The K Factor, a measurement used for flat patterns, indicates the degree to which the metal was stretched during the bending process.

    Wall Thickness

    Wall thickness determines whether or not certain products can be manufactured from metal sheets or plates. It is essential to ensure that components maintain uniform thickness Typically, capabilities of 0.9mm-20mm in thickness are capable of being formed from sheet metal.

    When considering wall thickness, it is good practice to use a single sheet with punches as a determinant.

    Laser Cutting

    Laser cutting is one of the most efficient methods of cutting sheets of metal. Laser cutting uses a high-energy beam to cut different materials, including but not limited to metal, aluminum, wood, plastic, and rubber.

    Lasers use computer numerically controlled programming (CNC) to dictate the sheet metal design and layout of cutouts with material thicknesses of up to 20mm. Laser cutting is one of the most economical cutting methods because CNC machining significantly reduces labor costs.

    Tolerance

    Depending on the material and the desired product, there are certain production thickness tolerances to keep in mind when determining whether sheet metal fabrication is the right production process for your application, including:.

    • General Tolerances: Wall thickness, hole diameters, and bends are all tolerances that should be considered in sheet metal fabrication. Sheet metal parts with a minimum of 0.9mm to 20mm can be manufactured with a +/- 1-degree tolerance on all bend angles. In laser cutting, hole diameters should be larger than the material thickness.
    • Curls: Curls ensure products are safe for handling. Curls should maintain an outside radius no smaller than 2 times the material thickness.
    • Countersink Holes: Countersink depths should be kept under 0.6mm of the material thickness.
    • Countersink Tolerances: Using standard angles, countersink diameters should measure between 2.3mm and 12.7mm. The tolerance for a formed countersink’s major diameter is +/- 0.254mm.

    H&S Manufacturing: Experienced and Established

    With over 40 years of industry expertise, H&S Manufacturing knows how to maintain tight tolerances, offer high-quality custom sheet metal fabrication services, and provide high-speed multi-tool solutions to suit our customers’ needs.

    With services like precision laser cutting, custom sheet metal fabrication, and more, H&S Manufacturing will offer the trained and knowledgeable resources you need.

    Contact us to learn more or request a quote today.

  9. Advantages of Form-in-Place Gaskets

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    Advantages of Form-in-Place Gaskets

    Form-in-place (FIP) gaskets are produced using a form-in-place dispensing process. They were originally created for the automotive market as a less expensive alternative to gaskets made by die cutting, molding, or extrusion. However, due to various advancements in the manufacturing process over the years, they now find widespread use in many other markets, including aerospace, medical, military, and telecommunications. Compared to traditional gaskets, they offer numerous benefits.

    Common Features of Form-in-Place Gaskets

    Some of the advantages form-in-place gaskets have over die-cut, molded, and extruded gaskets include: 

    • Broader versatility. They can be used in a wide range of conditions and applications. 
    • Greater design freedom. They can be created in small or large sizes and with very intricate details. Additionally, they can be produced from a variety of materials to suit different sealing applications. 
    • Better performance. The form-in-place dispensing process allows for the manufacture of components that accommodate the need for elevation changes, uneven surfaces, and/or thin profiles. Additionally, the use of gasket shelf probing and other sensing technologies enables the production of FIP gaskets that can be used for less-than-perfect housings and as-cast metal shielding. 
    • Higher accuracy and precision. The FIP gasket-making process can be automated with robotic systems, which enables the manufacture of highly complex and intricate components with tight tolerances, regardless of the size of the production run. 
    • Lower inventory costs. Form in-place gaskets reduce the need for different shapes and sizes of gaskets to be kept in inventory. 

    Choose Form-in-Place Gaskets From H&S Manufacturing

    Form-in-place gaskets benefit end-users in a number of ways. For example:

    • They achieve 100% surface contact, resulting in uniform stress distribution and forming effective sealing barriers. 
    • They seal rough surfaces without risk of damage, reducing the need for machining. 
    • They eliminate the need for multiple pre-cut gasket shapes or fragile gasket components.
    • They withstand use in vibration-heavy environments. 
    • They do not carry a risk of long-term embrittlement or disintegration, meaning they are less likely to break or leak over extended use.
    • They do not require shimming or specialized tools to dismantle, making them easier to use and replace.
    • They do not relax or shrink over time, eliminating the need for retightening. 

    Due to their numerous advantages and benefits, form-in-place gaskets are incorporated into a wide range of industrial and consumer products, such as computer chassis, racking, and test equipment. If you’re looking for quality Form-in-Place gaskets to use as EMI shielding in your next project, the experts at H&S Manufacturing are here to help. 

    We utilize 3-axis robotic form-in-place dispensing equipment to make silicone-based EMI shielding gaskets for customers in the communications, electronics, energy, lighting, medical, military, and transportation industries. These components are suitable for use with metal, plastic, and plated substrates. They can be manufactured to a variety of industry specifications and standards, including AS9100, ANSI, ASTM, ITAR, Mil-spec, RoHS, and REACH. We can accommodate prototypes to production volumes. 

    For additional information about our FIP gasket capabilities, contact us today. To discuss your EMI shielding gasket needs with one of our team members, request a quote.

  10. How to Design a Custom Sheet Metal Cabinet

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    How to Design a Custom Sheet Metal Cabinet

    At H&S Manufacturing, we’ve provided high-quality custom assemblies to customers across a wide range of industries for over 50 years. One of our areas of specialization is electromechanical assemblies. We can fabricate individual components or produce complete custom box builds. 

    Many of our electromechanical assembly projects require the construction of a custom sheet metal cabinet or enclosure. Below, we highlight the steps we take when designing one to ensure it fully meets the specifications and standards of the customer.  

    1. Select the Right Metal Type and Sheet Metal Thickness

    The first step in designing a custom sheet metal cabinet or enclosure is choosing the type and thickness of sheet metal that will be used for its construction. There are numerous materials options available, each of which exhibits unique characteristics that make it suitable for particular applications. For example: 

    • Aluminum. This material is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it perfect for various cabinets and enclosures. It can also be finished in many ways (e.g., bare surface, grained finished, powder-coated, anodized, etc.) to suit different functional and aesthetic requirements.  
    • Copper. This material is soft, flexible, and ductile. It also offers excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, which makes it ideal for certain electrical and electronic applications. 
    • Stainless steel. This material offers high strength, stiffness, and corrosion resistance. Similar to aluminum, it accommodates a variety of finishing options. 
    • Cold rolled steel. This material combines high stiffness, long-term durability in indoor environments, and low cost, making it a suitable general-purpose enclosure material. 
    • Galvanneal. This material has a unique coating that makes it a better alternative to cold-rolled steel for wet environments. 

    Once we’ve selected the type of sheet metal we want to use, we need to choose the appropriate thickness (i.e., gauge) for the cabinet/enclosure. See the table below for information on the imperial measurements to which each gauge corresponds for each metal.

    Gauge # Carbon Steel Stainless Steel Galvanneal 5052 Aluminum  6061 Aluminum
    n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 0.500″
    n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 0.375″
    n/a n/a n/a n/a 0.250″ 0.250″
    n/a n/a n/a n/a 0.188″ n/a
    8 n/a n/a n/a 0.1285″ n/a
    11 0.120″ 0.125″ n/a 0.091″ 0.1285″
    12 0.120″ n/a n/a 0.081″ n/a
    13 0.090″ n/a n/a n/a n/a
    14 0.075″ 0.078″ 0.078″ 0.064″ n/a
    16 0.060″ 0.063″ 0.063″ 0.051″ n/a
    18 0.048″ 0.050″ n/a 0.040″ n/a
    20 0.036″ 0.037″ 0.040″ 0.032″ n/a
    22 0.030″ 0.031″ 0.034″ n/a n/a
    24 0.024″ 0.025″ 0.028″ n/a n/a
    26 n/a 0.019″ n/a n/a n/a

     

    2. Identify the Correct Bending Method and Bend Radius

    Generally, sheet metal cabinets and enclosures are made by bending the sheet metal with a folder or press brake. A folder is used to form highly accurate bends quickly, while a press brake is used to create relatively sharp bends that are not possible for a folder.

    Since sheet metal typically cannot be bent into a true 90-degree angle, the corners of bent/folded sheet metal usually have a curve. Different tooling and bending parameters result in different degrees of curvature. We pick them depending on the bend radius (i.e., the radius of the inside surface of the bend) needed for the cabinet/enclosure.

    3. Choose an Appropriate Welding Method

    After the individual pieces of sheet metal have been bent/folded, they are typically welded together. The advantages of welding a cabinet or enclosure include stronger and more watertight joints and simple and cheaper assembly operations. 

    There are a variety of welding methods available, including: 

    • Spot welding. This welding method is efficient and affordable for permanently joining two pieces of sheet metal in one or more locations.
    • Seam welding. This welding method is suitable for joining two or more pieces of sheet metal along a continuous edge. 
    • Tack welding. This welding method is ideal for discretely joining two or more sheet metal pieces along a continuous segment. 

    Get Started on Your Custom Sheet Metal Cabinet Solution Today

    Designing a custom sheet metal cabinet is a delicate process. If one element is wrong, the final component may not work or look as intended. Partnering with an expert manufacturer of sheet metal cabinets, such as H&S Manufacturing Company, can help you avoid costly design mistakes. 

    At H&S Manufacturing, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment needed to design and manufacture a sheet metal cabinet that meets your exact needs. To learn more about our capabilities, contact us today. To discuss your specs and standards with one of our team members, request a quote.