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When you work in the fabrication industry, you’ll know that every metal fabrication company requires the use of many different metal cutting tools. These tools are used to create the desired effects in structures and designs by removing unwanted material from constructed pieces of metal. As a metal fabricator, an understanding of how these tools work and how they’re used is crucial in fabrication.

Each tool has its own advantages and disadvantages so it’s important to find tools that’ll meet your requirements. There are two types when it comes to different metal cutting tools and those include single-point tools and multi-point tools. Single-point tools are used to get rid of extra material through shaping, turning and other related processes with one cutting edge. Whereas multi-point tools are used during the grinding, drilling, and milling processes and often have teeth or multiple cutting edges. We’ll continue to identify different tools from both types.

Single Point Metal Cutting Tools

To start off, a single-point metal cutting tool is used to perform several operations. They can be made with a variety of materials including high carbon steel, ceramics, and diamonds to name a few. Some advantages of single-point tools are easy design and fabrication along with a more affordable price. However, because one blade is constantly working away at the material, wear and breakage is a more frequent occurrence. To continue, let’s discuss what some of the single point cutting tools are:

Turning Tools:

Turning tools are used to cut or finish the external diameter of your structure. They can also be used to produce cylindrical workpieces. There are many different types of turning tools such as woodturning tools, hollowing tools, bowl gouges and more. Different types are used for different purposes and materials due to their strength, durability and other specifications.   

Shaping Tools:

Shaping tools do exactly what the name describes. They’re used to cut in curves, certain angles, and other kinds of shapes all thanks to a disc. The disc is responsible for the tool’s rotation which then allows the forward and backwards movement making it easier to shape your fabrication projects. It’s most commonly used on wood and metal.

Other examples of single point metal cutting tools include:

• Planing tool
• Slotting tool
• Boring tool
• Fly cutter tool

Multi-Point Metal Cutting Tools

A multi-point metal cutting tool contains multiple cutting edges that work together during a single operation. The number of edges can range from three to hundreds depending on the tool and what it’s used for. They’re known for their efficiency when it comes to removing excess material as multiple cuts are made simultaneously. The tools are known to run longer and be more wear-resistant as the heat generated gets distributed across each blade. Here is some more information about the different kinds of multi-point cutting tools.

Milling Cutters:

Milling cutter tools are ultimately used in milling machines to perform milling operations. It consists of multiple grooves that act as blades that rotate to scrape off material or reshapes a workpiece. They’re often made from hard, strong materials that can withstand significant amounts of stress without breakage.

Reamer Tool:

A reamer is a kind of rotary metal cutting tool that is designed to enlarge or widen the size of pre-existing holes with high degrees of precision that leave smooth finishes. Reamers are provided with long flutes or grooves that can be straight or spiral. The flutes also allow chips, cooling and lubricating fluid to pass through to reach the cutting edges. This helps with the cooling process making your tool last longer and decreases breakage.

Other kinds of multi-point tools are:

• Grinding wheel
• Drills
• Broaches
• Hobs
• Knurling tools

Metal Fabrication Experts – VeriForm Inc.

Are you looking for an expert metal fabrication team to complete your metal projects? Then VeriForm Inc. is exactly what you’re searching for. Not only are they an award-winning metal fabrication company, but they’ll also get the job done right the first time. They specialize in parts fabrication, architectural fabrication, CNC machining and more all throughout Ontario. Whether you’re looking to build new structures or to revamp a previously made structure, VeriForm is here to help. They have a professionally skilled team, new high-tech equipment, and a commitment to getting the job done right. Contact VeriForm Inc. today to get a quote for any metal fabrication task you may have.

As a manufacturer, we have done very well by reducing our GHG emissions from 262 tonnes back in 2006 to as little as 60 tonnes per year in 2019 and then buying carbon offsets for the remaining emissions.  In fact, we just received an award for 6 years of being carbon neutral.

At the same time, we have realized that we need to go to the next step, to broaden our focus beyond just GHG emissions and carbon footprint.  Many of the best companies we deal with have pointed to becoming B Corp Certified because that certification takes into consideration greater areas of goodwill and socially positive results, not just profit generation.  The B Corp website defines it extremely well by stating:

“The B Corp community works toward reduced inequality, lower levels of poverty, a healthier environment, stronger communities, and the creation of more high-quality jobs with dignity and purpose. By harnessing the power of business, B Corps use profits and growth as a means to a greater end: positive impact for their employees, communities, and the environment.”

We are especially excited about this new development as our past experience has shown us that driving down our GHG emissions out of a sense of altruism also increased our profits. So with this in mind, we have decided to end our ISO 50001 energy management system and put our focus on becoming B Corp certified. We strongly believe this will benefit our customers and our staff, plus the broader community.  To learn more about the B Corp visit https://bcorporation.net/

Last weekend, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau along with the Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland and the Liberal candidate, Bryan May hosted a campaign event at VeriForm Inc. to discuss the Liberal Party’s agenda on sustainability and climate change. This is a prevalent issue as the total greenhouse gas emissions of carbon dioxide equivalent in Canada have increased to 730 megatonnes within the year of 2019.

Their climate plan entails that oil and gas companies would be required to set a five-year plan to decrease their greenhouse gas emissions. This is an obligation that’ll eventually lead to the party’s goal of net zero emissions by 2050. Cars being sold in Canada would also be required to take a part in reaching this goal. The target is to cut back on 50% of emissions by 2030 and zero emissions by 2035. Upon re-election, this plan would also include funding $2 billion to ensure “green” jobs are created within the oil industry.  

To see what the Liberal Party had to say during the campaign, click here. 

What is Net Zero Emissions?  

The term “Net Zero Emissions” has been mentioned quite often but what does it actually imply? Net zero emissions also referred to as carbon neutrality, can be defined by an economy that no longer produces greenhouse gases. It also indicates that the economy is able to offset emissions. Offsetting emissions means that emissions are still being produced but in lower quantities. However, as long as there is a method to counteract the emissions, you’re still considered to be at net zero. Being at net zero also includes reducing greenhouse gases and ridding emissions that have already reached the atmosphere.

There are many strategies businesses can use to reach net zero. Planting more trees to filter oxygen or taking initiatives in creating a greener work environment. A greener workspace could suggest using environmentally-friendly equipment, tools and technology. Another method that would be proactive to this cause would be transitioning from the usage of non-renewable to renewable energy. Switching from fossil fuel, coal and petroleum to solar, hydro, or wind to name a few. That being said, the point of net zero is to restore the state of the world prior to climate change. It’s an essential goal that is currently in the process of being met all across the globe.  

Why VeriForm?  

Now that we understand why reaching net zero is so important, how does this tie in with VeriForm Inc.? Simply due to the fact that VeriForm is one of the examples of businesses that have reached the net zero goal. The CEO of VeriForm, Paul Rak started his sustainability journey by cutting his company’s greenhouse gas emissions back in 2006. Soon after, he invested $46,000 in energy-efficient changes all throughout his company. With this investment, Paul installed efficient lighting, heating systems and more to reduce energy usage.

Although it seems like a large amount of money to invest, VeriForm’s return on investment was $90,000 from reduced energy bills alone. Last year back in 2020, VeriForm was able to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 75%. They only needed to offset 25% on emissions. This was also the year he won the Net Zero Award for demonstrating his success in maintaining net zero for one or more years. Even now, Paul Rak is taking steps in continuing his work to becoming a more sustainable metal fabrication company. It goes to show that with perseverance, and time any company can become green to reach that net zero goal towards a better future. 

Nowadays, it’s easy to be amazed by the wonders of modern mechanical engineering. The sheer difference in design and capability is astounding if you look at tools and machines from 100 years ago compared to today. This is all thanks to the mechanical engineers as well as other brilliant minds who tirelessly toiled and studied the science behind how things work and how to make them work more efficiently.

The world of metal fabrication also owes a lot to mechanical engineers. Mechanical engineering is a core discipline within the industry, and it covers almost everything from planning, operations, to development. These modern technological wizards can make something out of nothing. But how important are mechanical engineers in the metal fabrication industry? Let’s continue to discuss their importance.

Mechanical Engineering in the Metal Fabrication Industry

Within every industry, there are key members that play a crucial role in ensuring everything functions correctly and smoothly – like a central cog in a watch. Mechanical engineers are the ones who play that role in the metal fabrication industry.

Mechanical engineering is ultimately one of the more diverse types of engineering. It is the branch of engineering that focuses on the design, production, the operation of machines and much more. In order to be a successful mechanical engineer, you need to study and understand engineering physics, mathematics and wrap everything up with materials science. This will allow you to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems.

In metal fabrication, multiple mechanical engineers are needed within the team. They are in charge of taking an idea, creating a prototype, tweaking the prototype, and producing the finished product. Mechanical engineering can dictate the capabilities of a metal fabrication company. A metal fabrication company without a mechanical engineer is like a restaurant without a cook.

Mechanical Engineering within Other Industries

Due to the extensive scope of mechanical engineering, you can see mechanical engineers in various industries. Mechanical engineers are central to a lot of industries that rely heavily on machinery. While most mechanical engineers work in offices, some might need to visit worksites to do routine checks and/or regular maintenance work.

Other industries that require mechanical engineering include:

• Architecture industry
• Scientific research and development industry
• Manufacturing industry
• Computer and electronic product manufacturing
• Aerospace industry
• Automotive industry

Becoming a Mechanical Engineer in Ontario, Canada

The idea of being a central figure in any industry can be pretty tempting, but the journey to becoming a mechanical engineer in Ontario, Canada, is not easy. To become a mechanical engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technologies. The difference between the two is that mechanical engineering programs focus on theory and application, while a mechanical engineering technology program dives into the practical application of the principles.

Aside from a bachelor’s degree, getting a master’s or doctorate can also help but isn’t necessary. However, a license provided by a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers is required for most work opportunities. It’d be a good idea to obtain one beforehand. Lastly, depending on the job requirements, you might need to get a professional license from a regulatory authority. If the license requirement is compulsory, you need to get certification first before you can work. However, if the requirement is voluntary, you can forego getting a license before starting work.

Metal Fabrication in Ontario, Canada

Although it takes a lot of time and hard work to become a mechanical engineer, the payoffs are worth it. The average base salary for a mechanical engineer in Canada starts off at $62,000. You’ll be able to find fulfilling work through a variety of industries. Are you a budding mechanical engineer who’s interested in knowing whether or not you are a good fit in the metal fabrication industry? Visit VeriForm today to browse through the services they have to offer. You’ll get a good idea of what they do and how you can play a part as a mechanical engineer.