Sheet metal, machining or fabrication?
Processes. Published Oct 7, 2026 by ManuFx.
Sheet metal, CNC machining or structural fabrication: a short guide to which process suits which kind of part.
TL;DR
- Sheet metal: sheet and plate, cut and bent into shape.
- CNC machining: parts cut from solid material to high accuracy.
- Structural fabrication: sections and plates joined into frames.
Sheet metal
Sheet and plate are cut, bent and formed into shape. It suits enclosures, panels, brackets and covers.
CNC machining
A machine cuts the part from solid material, following a program. It suits prototypes, custom parts and production runs that need high accuracy.
Structural fabrication
Steel sections and plates are cut, then welded or bolted into frames, supports and structures.
The part decides the process, not the other way round.
How to tell
Many assemblies use all three: a fabricated frame, sheet metal covers and machined fittings.
- Thin and folded: sheet metal.
- Solid, with close fits: CNC machining.
- Large and load-bearing: structural fabrication.