Equipment enclosures have always been a hot-selling product in the sheet metal processing industry. Those who specialize in exterior processing typically opt for sheet metal processing. This is because the materials used in sheet metal processing have a longer lifespan, making them highly suitable for equipment. Although exterior processing is a prominent form of manufacturing, certain unavoidable issues should still be taken into account during the processing process.

Shell processing bending

During bending, it's crucial to first determine the type of tool and slot to be used based on the dimensions and thickness data on the drawings. Preventing product collision with the tool and causing deformation is the key factor in selecting the upper die (the same product may use different types of upper dies), while the choice of the lower die is determined by the thickness of the sheet material.

Secondly, the sequence of bending has been confirmed. The general rule for bending is from the inside to the outside, from small to large, and from special to common. For workpieces that require beading, the workpiece is first bent 30-40°, and then flattened using a leveling mold.

2. Outer casing surface processing

After the bending and riveting processes of the workpiece are completed, surface treatment is required, which varies depending on the type of material. For cold-rolled sheets, surface electroplating is typically performed. After electroplating, instead of painting, phosphatization is applied before painting. The surface of the electroplated sheet is then cleaned and degreased before painting.

Stainless steel sheets, including mirror sheets, frosted sheets, and brushed sheets, can be bent after being brushed and do not require painting. If painting is needed, a roughening process must be performed. Aluminum sheets are generally oxidized, and the base color is selected based on the painting color.

In the shell processing process, after the material is cut, it typically moves on to the next step. Different workpieces proceed to the corresponding process based on their processing requirements.

There are bending, riveting, flanging, threading, spot welding, bulging, and offset operations. Sometimes, nuts or bolts should be properly tightened after one or two bends. The center of the mold bulge offset needs to be processed first to avoid interference from subsequent processes, as it cannot be finished as required. If there are hooks on the upper or lower shell, and the bending prevents welding, the hooks should be addressed before bending.

Here are the common issues encountered during the casing processing, hoping this helps everyone.