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DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE: SERVICE • QUALITY • INNOVATION
ESTABLISHED 1953
In sheet metal fabrication, achieving both exceptional functionality and cost-effective manufacturing often comes down to the details. Hardware, for instance, can often be an overlooked aspect of many designs, but every fastener choice and installation plays an important role in a final assembly’s overall quality.
At All Metals Fabricating, we know that proper hardware installation requires a combination of expert guidance, advanced tooling, and experienced team members. Whether you’re seeking fast installation or looking to reduce the cost of a complex setup, we’re equipped to help you get the results you need.
Our sheet metal hardware installation services cover nearly any type of fastener your project could require. We have no limits on size or materials, and we maintain a large in-house inventory at all times to help accelerate your project kickoff. Our close relationship with trusted suppliers also allows us quick access to specialty components when needed.
We regularly install a wide range of hardware, including:
Of course, this is just a sample of our most common work, not a comprehensive list. We are always open to meeting unique hardware requirements, even if they call for new tooling or require us to learn specialized processes.
For instance, one customer recently came to us searching for a way to use hardware to prevent water intrusion into their units. We collaborated with a hardware manufacturer to supply us with a rivet nut that came with silicone already on the backside of the head. This kind of collaborative problem-solving is central to how we operate.
We’re equipped with a variety of specialized equipment to ensure efficient hardware installation, helping us to maintain high throughput and minimize customer lead times. Our shop has a collection of Hager machines for PEM fasteners, with many other handheld and pneumatic tools for a variety of applications.
Automated manufacturing is a major focus at All Metals in our custom metal fabrication and precision machining services, and that commitment extends to our hardware installation, as well. Although current robotic automation for hardware installation isn’t yet cost-effective for most customer projects, we’re continuously evaluating new technologies to stay ahead and maintain the fastest, most reliable production possible.
One of our most valuable services at All Metals is our design for manufacturing (DFM) guidance, which is useful in optimizing your project for cost-efficiency and manufacturability. For sheet metal hardware, our team will offer suggestions both during the design phase and production to ensure your choices are best for function and budget. Common issues we encounter include:
When holes are punched in flat material that is then formed into flanges, the bending process can distort areas near the bend. If the hole is placed too close, it may shift or deform, making it difficult to install hardware properly. We offer a variety of design tweaks or suggestions to avoid these problems.
Sometimes, hardware can’t be installed after sheet metal forming because it is intended for tight or obstructed areas. In these cases, we often suggest small design changes to simplify installation, such as clearance holes for tooling access. While this isn’t possible with cosmetic parts, we often suggest alternate strategies, like installing nuts before final bends.
Stainless steel requires specific fasteners. When you press a stainless steel fastener into a stainless steel part, for instance, there are specific hardened stainless steel fasteners that you should use to improve performance. Similarly, pairing stainless steel screws with stainless steel nuts can lead to galling, which affects performance. We help customers avoid this by recommending proper materials, coatings like zinc plating, or lubricants when needed.
Efficient, cost-effective sheet metal hardware installation requires both expertise and adaptability. At All Metals, we’re committed to building long-term partnerships by helping our customers improve their products and streamline production. Our goal is to make the process smoother for everyone involved.
If you need reliable hardware installation and assembly for your next project, request a quote today from our Texas sheet metal fabrication shop!
