Parts for a car need to be built to last. That means stainless steel sheet metal fabrication procedures are very specific to the type of part being made and the raw materials being used. By carefully cutting and forging sheet metal, fabrication shops will build parts that are more reliable and durable, perfect for classic car restoration. Parts that are custom-made using modern tools and technology will last much longer than vintage parts purchased secondhand. Those parts were made with supplies and tools of the time; modern classic car restoration parts will stand up much better thanks to advancements in auto knowledge and technology. Now, expertly cutting sheet metal and using it to form car parts must meet a certain standard before it’s given an okay to use.
Stainless steel sheet metal fabrication can impact getting the right classic car restoration parts simply because it’s what makes up the car. Whether it’s the trim, the parts under the hood, or the hood itself, a car needs reliable, durable parts to keep running and withstand dents and damage. Testing the grade of sheet metal is one way to make sure the materials are high-quality.
Durable auto sheet metal
One major indicator of the quality of auto sheet metal is the grade it’s assigned. These tests can identify one type of metal from another, which can be particularly helpful if different types have been mixed together. While tests can be run to identify the type and grade of metal, they do have limitations as well, including being unable to differentiate heat among grades. There are many different types of tests, including magnet testing, spark testing, hardness testing, and acid testing. These tests are designed to ensure the fabrication shop is forging sheet metal of the right type and characteristics. Naturally, some auto sheet metal works better as classic car restoration parts, depending on what the car needs; these tests will give you an idea of what you’re working with.
Two main grades are chromium nickel, which is non-magnetic, and chromium, which is magnetic. These two grades break down even further based on different tests, but the two main groups are your starting point for determining what type of auto sheet metal is being used.
Resist corrosion and other damage
These days, cars suffer a lot of wear and tear. Weather situations and other liabilities, including accidents or falling debris, can heavily impact the condition of a car. However, stainless steel fabrication of galvanized steel leads to some of the best, reliable materials in the auto sheet metal industry. These metals are coated to preserve the paint finish and resist corrosion from chemicals or rain residue; these steels are also much stronger, considering they make up about 40% or more of a car body. The body panel in particular needs to be able to resist dents and damage as much as possible.