Steel brushing is a very popular finish for semi-finished products and complex assemblies. It is performed after other processes (such as bending and welding) to eliminate inaccuracies and to make the stainless steel more homogenous, smooth to the touch and opaque.

Its function is aesthetic, but also hygienic: brushing makes the surface easier to clean and suitable for use in the food and medical sectors.

In this article, we will describe how the brushing process takes place, its advantages and the effect on the appearance of the final product.

Features and benefits of steel brushing

Brushing is a precision operation that eliminates irregularities on stainless steel surfaces.

It is generally carried out in the last stages of the production process to remove small defects or “smooth” the metal, giving it a matt and less shiny appearance.

In particular, it is useful to:

• make the surface smooth and homogenous, eliminating irregularities;

• cover metal surface defects;

• eliminate shiny effects.

Usually, it is performed using specific tools and machinery – manual or automated – that, thanks to the combination of abrasive brushes with variable grain size and wax-like substances, enable stainless steel to be worked to eliminate superficial defects in the metal or residues from previous processes.

To be carried out to perfection, brushing must be light. Abrasive brushes, in fact, must act gently on the metal to structure the surface, without removing or damaging its layers.

A very precise operation that is usually carried out with state-of-the-art equipment. In particular, when they are robotised, they are “instructed” and configured with the right specifications by skilled workers to complete the assembly or semi-finished product with the finish agreed with the customer.

The equipment plays an important role in this phase, as does the degree of preparation of the workers specialized in the stainless steel processing. 

For this reason, Metal’s fleet will soon be expanded with new equipment and, at the same time, we will invest in employees training. In particular, we will have 9 brushing booths, 6 of which are manual systems and 3 robotic systems, to speed up the production process and guarantee the finishing of semi-finished products and complex assemblies within the agreed times.

Does brushing increase steel strength?

Stainless steel boasts several properties including deformability, hardness, ease of cleaning, thermal conductivity and resistance to corrosion. Choosing brushing as a finish not only increases the metal’s strength but also offers other interesting advantages.

This particular finish, in fact, is useful for other purposes. As we have already mentioned, on an aesthetic level it eliminates imperfections, even those that may occur during machining. At Metal’s, for example, we choose the raw material in accordance with our customers’ needs both in terms of aesthetic requirements and technical specifications.

However, during the production process, small porosities and micro-cracks can be created in the material, especially during welding, laser cutting or punching phases. In this case, brushing the steel allows not only to eliminate residues of previous processing (such as dark spots accumulated during welding, for example) but also to level the metal, making it smooth to touch again and without imperfections.

Futhermore, this finishing is required by companies operating in the medical and food industries because it is able to remove all pores from stainless steel, guaranteeing greater hygienic safety. Micro-cracks can harbour bacteria, which are not particularly welcome in these areas, which must be aseptic and easy to clean.

Stainless steel, in fact, is the only material suitable for coming into contact with food. Moreover, thanks to its high resistance to corrosion and extreme temperatures, it is one of the most widely used materials in the medical sector.

In order to maintain these valuable characteristics, however, stainless steel must always be perfect. Brushing, therefore, is an important finish because it can ensure a low roughness to the metal (about 0.8 microns), smoothen the surface and prevent contamination.

Where should brushing be used?

To summarise, brushing can be applied in all areas and on all products, but it is especially recommended in the food and medical fields to produce semi-finished products and complex stainless steel assemblies that are safe, easy to sanitise and without the risk of contamination.

On an aesthetic level, for example, it can be useful to eliminate any imperfections from the surfaces of semi-finished products and components that require high aesthetic characteristics such as for professional kitchens, machines, for bakery or professional cafeterias.

The finishing can also be applied to switchboards, control cabinets and other specific equipment for industrial use.

Finally, it can be used for the finishing refrigerators, food processing machines, meat processing machines, bottling machines and other appliances for the catering or large-scale distribution, ensuring product durability and easy maintenance.

Brushed steel maintenance and cleaning

Cleaning, sanitizing and maintaining brushed steel is very simple and fast.

In order not to damage the material, while preserving aesthetics and resistance over time, it is advisable to use a soft cloth and specific detergents for stainless steel, especially when the finished products are used in the HORECA, medical or industrial sector. Even ethyl alcohol, to be sprayed on the surface and immediately removed with a dry cloth, also guarantees cleanliness and shine.

In addition, you should not use:

• abrasive sponges and metal sponges, which can cause surface scratches;

• bleach and chlorine-based detergents, which reduce the resistance of steel.

By following these steps, steel will retain its characteristics for a long time and will not be damaged.

Do you want to know more?

What are the benefits of brushing? Trust Metal’s, find out what this finish consists of and what benefits it could bring to your project.

At Metal’s we can handle the entire production process, to realise stainless steel assemblies, semi-finished products, parts and components in the quantities and with the characteristics you need. We love challenges and this is why we can realise even the most complex projects.

Ours is a path that, from consultancy to production, goes through multiple stages to offer our customers the desired product, within the agreed timeframe and according to the planned investment, often offering improvement solutions that reduce costs even once the product is in operation.

Reducing production and maintenance costs: a Metal’s case history

Our technical department assesses the feasibility of the entire job, proposing sustainable or alternative solutions to improve the initial project and optimise it, with important benefits, both technical and economic. This was the case, for example, of a major Food Processing customer. 

The case and request in brief: reducing the production costs of a complete assembly with all components

A customer in the food processing sector entrusted us with the production of suction elements for ovens, with one aim: to reduce costs by managing the entire production in Metal’s. A challenge we accepted with enthusiasm because making products of this type means not only machining stainless steel, but also finding improved solutions to produce a complete assembly of all the components necessary for its operation, including wiring, junction boxes, fans, exhaust pipes and condensation units.

Our proposal: streamlining the project to optimise production and maintenance costs

In order to reduce costs, our technical department has considered every variable to intervene on, including components already produced, stock residues and open orders. Then, thanks to timely and active discussions with the customer, they designed a solution that not only met the required criteria, but also allowed an optimization of post-production costs.

In fact, our engineers have proposed the construction of grooves to drain water more efficiently and reduce the number of welds, while providing an interlocking system for the fans to facilitate the replacement of the component in case of repair. Suction elements designed in this way are easier to assemble, clean and maintain.

Reliability even in emergency conditions

At Metal’s we are the single point of contact for each project, which means that our customers can also rely on us for materials and components procurement, and not only for design development, production and delivery. We are at their side in everyday life and also in emergencies.

This was the case, for example, when, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the same Food Processing customer suddenly found itself without fans, an essential component, necessary for the operation of the suction elements, because its trusted supplier was not operational due to restrictive measures to contain the virus. In a short time, we looked for a new company that could meet the quality and cost requirements, guaranteeing supply and avoiding a production stop.

“Due to the pandemic, the supplier suggested by our customer, could not supply an essential component to put the suction units into operation, so we immediately dedicated ourselves to looking for an alternative product that guaranteed identical performance and sustainable costs. It wasn’t easy but we finally identified a European supplier. We asked to receive a sample to test it. Having assessed the quality of the component, we were able to proceed with production. Today, the supplier we identified during the emergency collaborates with us and with our customer for the construction of the suction units”. – Michele Perin, Purchasing Manager

Consultancy at the beginning of the project

At Metal’s, consultancy is an essential service that allows us to evaluate, together with the customer, the different paths to take in order to achieve the agreed end goal.

Usually this discussion takes place at the beginning of the collaboration (i.e. before starting the entire production process), but dialogue with customers is constant and can take place at any time.

It may happen, in fact, that changes are required to speed up the production process or reduce prices, while maintaining the same quality of semi-finished products or complex assemblies.

It also happens that some emergency situations have to be faced, such as the difficult availability of a component. Critical situations that could compromise delivery times or change the final price of the product, but which – thanks to timely and targeted intervention, the result of in-depth knowledge of the field and the reference market – can be contained.

At Metal’s, in fact, we can deal with the unexpected, delivering the desired product within the agreed times and prices.

To do this, we draw on the experience of a team of technicians, engineers and specialised workers who, after careful study, evaluate and suggest new options to meet customers’ demands.

From approval to product realisation

Once we have outlined the path to be taken together with the customer, we always make a prototype before starting up the series production.

This – especially in the case of changes of the initial project – allows us to carry out further checks, to test usability, solidity and verify, together with the customer, if every request made has been satisfied.

To manufacture the products, we make use of a fleet of state-of-the-art machines, active 24 hours a day. This allows us to meet agreed deadlines and avoid delays. Furthermore, production is constantly supervised by our technicians and the products must pass suitability tests before each delivery. This scrupulous and careful process allows us to deliver assemblies, machine parts, semi-finished products and components of the highest quality.

A single partner for the most complex projects

At Metal’s we can simplify any complex project and find effective solutions even in times of crisis. In this case study, we have illustrated an example of what we can do for you, even if the unexpected happens.

Stainless steel is a sustainable material with important characteristics that can be used in various sectors and applications. Invented in the 19th century by the British metallurgical engineer Harry Brearley, stainless steel is composed mainly of iron, carbon and chromium, which can be combined with other alloys to increase its strength and expand its possible uses.

A material that does not oxidise and, above all, respects the environment. In what way can stainless steel be considered sustainable? What are its advantages – in terms of eco-sustainability – and how is it recycled? In this article we will answer all these questions.

Why stainless steel is sustainable?

Stainless steel is an easy-to-work material with a number of characteristics that help make it a sustainable metal:

• resists to high temperatures and temperature fluctuations;
• it does not get damaged easily;
• it needs little maintenance;
• it is durable;
• it does not corrode.

Thanks to these special features, stainless steel is able to extend its life cycle and, unlike other materials, does not need to be replaced before its time. A considerable advantage because, by choosing stainless steel, you contribute to the reduction of waste and its disposal.

Not only that. Stainless steel has a low environmental impact: once produced, it causes no more polluting emissions and no more disposal and regeneration problems.

Choosing, therefore, stainless steel for your production allows you to make excellent, easy-to-clean and long-lasting products that respect the planet. Because of its many characteristics, it is used in numerous sectors, from food to medical.

Recycling steel: a permanent material that can be reused

Stainless steel is a long-lasting material; one of the strongest and most durable in the world. This is due to the high percentage of chromium contained in its composition which, in contact with oxygen, creates a transparent film that increases the ability of this metal to resist wear, time and oxidation.

Obviously, it is difficult to quantify the exact durability of stainless steel with a precise figure (even if we are talking about decades), because a lot depends on how it is used, the type of stainless steel chosen and any maintenance. What can be said with certainty, however, is that stainless steel is a durable and circular material, whose components always retain their original properties and are suitable to almost infinite reuse and regeneration.

As defined by the cultural organisation Fondazione Promozione Acciaio, stainless steel ‘is a permanent, 100% recyclable material for multiple cycles without loss of properties’, i.e. a durable metal that, unlike many others, ‘can be remelted over and over again without ever losing any of its intrinsic properties such as strength, ductility, formability, which make it irreplaceable in multiple applications’. All the metal bonds in the material’s recycling stages are restored during the resolidification process, maintaining its qualities.

Thus, at the end of their life cycle, items made of stainless steel can be dismantled, recovered or added to any scrap, to be recycled and live a new life in form of sheets, bars, tubes and other products.

Steel recycling and disposal

As we have seen, stainless steel can be recycled numerous times, without ever losing its properties. Recycling of the industrial material, as Confindustria points out in its Circular Economy magazine, is easy to be done.

Once its life cycle is over, steel is taken to the foundry where the scrap is cleaned and melted to take on a new function. From recycled steel, in fact, semi-finished products can be obtained that are useful for making, for example, vehicle components, machinery, household appliances and building materials.

This virtuous cycle brings numerous benefits to the planet also because the continuous recycling of steel avoids the use of new raw material. Just think that in Italy in the year 2021 as many as 450 thousand tonnes of raw material were saved, 6,625 TJ of primary energy and as many as 539 tonnes of CO2 were avoided. All data confirmed by Ricrea (National Consortium for Recycling and Recovery of Steel Packaging) reports.

Moreover, if we consider all steel – not only stainless steel -, as far as recycling is concerned, Italy is certainly one of the most virtuous European countries. According to data released by Ricrea, the percentage of recycled steel in Italy reaches a good 82%, thus exceeding the target set by the European Commission of 70% of steel in urban waste and 80% in packaging by 2030. This unlimited recycling leads not only to savings in raw materials and energy, but also to an important reduction of waste otherwise destined to dump.

Respecting the planet is also a priority for us. That is why, at Metal’s, we have chosen to process a highly sustainable material, using hybrid, energy-saving, low environmental impact plants, which allow us to optimise production, reduce consumption by maintaining the quality of our work.

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Choose stainless steel for your production: discover all the advantages of this material: rely on Metal’s to realise your projects.

Stainless steel is one of the most used materials in the food and medical sector because it offers numerous advantages and avoids the risk of contamination. Composed mainly of iron and chromium, combined with other alloys in different quantities, stainless steel is long-lasting, corrosion-resistant, easy to clean and maintain. Let’s take a closer look at its advantages, why and when it is most recommended.

Characteristics and properties of stainless steel

There are different types of steel on the market, varying according to the presence – or not – of phosphorus, silicon, boron, vanadium, manganese, sulphur… What distinguishes stainless steel from ordinary steel is its composition, which also includes chromium.

When the percentage of this chemical element exceeds 10.5%, in fact, a protective oxide layer is created which preserves the surface of the metal from any chemical agents, as well as humidity and salinity. The process that causes the formation of this thin and transparent passive film is known as passivation, a reaction that is activated when the metal comes into contact with oxygen.

Stainless steel, therefore, is a very tough alloy with important properties such as, for example, ease of processing, also using laser technologies: processes that create indispensable products for various markets, from the chemical to the food and pharmaceutical industries.

The main characteristics of stainless steel include:

• lightness;
• shine and brilliance;
• heat and corrosion resistance;
• low maintenance;
• ease of cleaning;
• high bacterial removability.

In addition, stainless steel does not need protective coatings.

Stainless steel applications in the food and medical sector

Being a biologically neutral material, stainless steel does not change the colour, smell or taste of the foods or substances it comes into contact with. In addition, its smooth, non-porous surface is antibacterial and very easy to clean, making it perfect for storage, as well as for preserving food and substances used in medical and cosmetic applications, removing the risk of contamination.

Stainless steel in the food processing sector

Stainless steel can be used to manufacture machinery, products and assemblies that involve contact with food. As a matter of fact, stainless steel is the only material suitable for coming into contact with food and can be used in numerous processes for both the domestic and industrial sectors. For example, at Metal’s we can produce and assemble semi-finished products and components such as:

• accessories for large kitchens (including pasta cookers, frames, braising pans, oven chambers, oven doors assembled with glass and other materials, stainless steel furniture, roasters, fryers and hobs);
• accessories for the ice cream sector;
• parts of machinery for professional cafeterias and vending machines;
• meat processing systems;
• bakery and oven accessories (such as pizza presses, oven chambers, oven doors);
• standard and industrial dishwashers;
• refrigerators and other refrigeration products.

On the other hand, in the market for complex assemblies and machine parts, we mainly manufacture equipment that comes into contact with food (such as mincers, meat processing machines, slicers, homogenisers, liquid and solid separators); bottling machinery, as well as food and beverage processing and packaging.

Stainless steel applications in the medical sector

Just like the food industry, the pharma sector requires special care and stainless steel is recommended for various productions because it resists:

• to corrosion, a quality that removes the risk of contamination, even in the case of products with volatile particles;
• to extreme temperatures, which in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors are often extremely low (due to cryogenesis).

At Metal’s, for example, we produce and assemble semi-finished products, machine parts or complex assemblies, including X-ray equipment in painted steel. Professional equipment such as washing tank units used in hospital and private facilities, which we also complete with galvanic or electrochemical treatments to further increase their strength.

A safe manufacturing process

As we have seen, stainless steel can be used in many sectors. At Metal’s we can carry out all kinds of processing, also thanks to an up-to-date, state-of-the-art machines fleet. The examples we have mentioned represent only a part of what we can achieve: we are always open to new challenges. Every time we receive a project, our technical staff evaluates its feasibility, suggesting the best solution that meets all the objectives, both in terms of cost and quality indicated by the customer.

In the production phase, we also pay particular attention to the quality of the product from an aesthetic point of view because many of our complex, semi-finished assemblies are exposed to the public (this is the case, for example, of professional coffee machines and vending machines for large-scale distribution).

An important clarification. At Metal’s we have decided to process only stainless steel to avoid contamination by other types of metal. In this way, all machines, equipment and environments are not contaminated by the processing of other metals and we can offer safe products for the medical and food markets. As regards, then, orders that involve the combination and assembly with materials other than stainless steel, we have chosen to handle separate processing environments: a precaution that prevents metal from being compromised.

Do you want to know more?

Is your company in the food processing or medical sector? Rely on Metal’s to realise your projects. We will follow you in all stages: from consulting through production to delivery.

Stainless steel processing is only one of the steps in our production process. In fact, at Metal’s, we are committed to providing a complete service to our customers, starting with technical advice and ending with delivery. We have already talked about this in the article on how we work. But how is a project developed, concretely? And how do we approach a project? We talk about it in this article, where we illustrate a real case.

Optimising costs, production and processing: a Metal’s case history

At Metal’s, each project is developed together with the customer to achieve the set objectives and suggest different options to optimise production, cost and time.

In particular, in the case we describe in this article, we have decided to explain even better how we work for the companies that rely on us, starting from a typical request that we often receive from our customers: costs optimisation.

The case and the request: optimising costs without compromising aesthetics, functionality and robustness

An important customer in the Food Processing sector commissioned us to develop bakery cabinet systems for bakeries, shopping centres and supermarkets. The objective: to optimise production costs without modifying the aesthetics of the product, its functionality and its performance, both in terms of rigidity and stability, two essential features to facilitate the movement of the cabinets on wheels, even in the presence of height differences.

Our proposal: already assembled cabinet systems with a strong and light structure

In this case, we proposed to realise the cabinet systems using special cutting and bending processes, which allowed us to obtain an already assembled stainless steel semi-finished product, almost identical to the cabinets previously produced for our customer, with a structure both strong and light, and ready to use. The solution we found to achieve this result and contain costs included also the study of a type of interlocking and fixing system that took into account different thicknesses and materials.

The importance of the test phase: a prototype to be tested on site

Our technical department studied the possible alternatives and proposed to the customer the rendering of a new design compatible with his initial requirements.

Furthermore, to verify that the product met the agreed requirements of aesthetics, functionality and stability, we made a sample and sent it to the customer to allow him to test it and simulate different loads under real conditions.

“When they asked us if it was possible to reduce product costs while maintaining the same aesthetics, quality and functionality, we set our technical department to find the best solution to their request. Once we took over the customer’s initial design, we had already optimised in the first production phase, we developed it further. Then we created a prototype of the cabinet system, so that the customer could test it and verify the versatility and rigidity of the product, as well as the possible presence of deformations and defects to be corrected.” – Luca Regazzo, Technical Sales Manager

On the road to production: from prototype to the realization, up to the final testing

Once we had successfully completed the tests and verified that the prototype met the requirements – in this case, versatility, robustness, aesthetics and cost reduction -, we entered into the heart of the production cycle and the actual realisation of the cabinet system, which was subsequently marketed on the market of reference.

Production is a phase in which we are even more careful and rigorous in making sure that project standards are met, without exceeding delivery times. In fact, thanks to our state-of-the-art machinery in operation every day, 24 hours a day, we can deliver the product on time.

“Each processing cycle of the cabinet system, including production and finishing, was always followed by our technical experts to achieve the goals shared with the customer. Furthermore, once we finished the product, we performed a strict quality control to test the suitability of it. This was possible because, beforehand, we developed the project to take into account the subsequent steps. In fact, we work in synergy – between Metal’s departments and with the customer – and our work always starts with a customer’s drawing, optimised and developed by our technical department according to the customer’s requirements. The realisation of several renderings then allows us to get closer to the shared objectives, but it is with the realisation of a prototype that we can understand if there is still a need to act to improve the design. After testing the sample, the production department comes into play, where every step is carried out with precision, speed and punctuality. This allows us to meet the agreed deadlines and achieve the high standards required, thus ensuring our customers a perfect product.” – Nicola Borella, Plant Manager

A single partner for the most complex projects

The case study described in this article is just one of the many examples of how Metal’s works every day both as a supplier and as a true partner to companies in various sectors. Find out what we can do for you. Rely on Metal’s for your productions.

Laser technology for metal machining is a very precise process that involves the direct emission of an energy-dense light source onto a specific area of material in order to cut, weld or engrave it with extreme cleanliness and speed.

Developed in the 1960s, laser technology has improved over time, becoming increasingly accurate, fast and versatile. These features have revolutionised the production of companies, especially in the metal industry. In this article we will take a closer look at what laser technology is, its advantages, its applications on metal and stainless steel, with a focus on our machine pool and the machining operations we carry out at Metal’s on semi-finished products and complex stainless steel assemblies.

Types of lasers used for metal and stainless steel processing

Generally speaking, there are three types of lasers most commonly used in the industrial and metalworking sectors:

• CO2 laser: its operation is combined with the use of a carbon dioxide gas mixture, stimulated by electrical discharges. Used first in the manufacturing industry due to its processing speed, stability and sustainable costs of the systems, this type of laser is recommended for high quality processing including cutting sheet metal, plastics and organic materials. It is often used in the packaging industry for welding films.
• Fiber laser: the light beam is combined with low-power diodes that allow the current to pass in a single direction. The wavelength of the laser is shorter than that of the CO2 laser, allowing its application even on metallic materials that are difficult to treat. Fiber systems are reliable, long-lasting, consume little energy and do not need much maintenance. This is why they are used for both metals welding and cutting, as well as for micromachining.
• Solid-state laser (or Yag laser). In this case, the laser is activated thanks to the energy produced by a light source (such as a lamp) on the crystal lattice Yag bar. The light introduces energy into the crystal and triggers the process useful for manufacturing. This technology gave birth to the fiber laser, which is better in terms of work quality and performance. In fact, thanks to the replacement of the lamp with diodes, duration and the wavelength are improved and there is no waste of energy.

The advantages of laser technology in metal machining over traditional techniques

Choosing laser technology for metal machining offers several advantages, especially in cutting and welding. Here are some of the most important ones:

• Precision, cleanliness and speed. The laser works on a precise and limited area of material, without the need for additional finishing, thus offering maximum accuracy and high processing speed, even on the most complex surfaces.
• Lower risk of material contamination. Especially with regard to cutting, laser technology (as opposed to traditional processing using, for example, blades) avoids the risk of contamination with other materials.
• Customisation and flexibility. Thanks to the integration with automated and computerised production systems, it is possible to faithfully follow a design, whether simple or complex, making it unique. Furthermore, it is possible to use the machining process on several materials to achieve different geometries and finishes.
• Versatility. Laser technology can be used on various metals, from stainless steel to steel, as well as other materials such as glass or wood.
• Reducing material waste. Laser technology allows you to work on a specific area and reduces material waste, whether stainless steel or another metal.
• Safe automated process. Laser technology is usually followed remotely, through a computerised system. This increases the safety conditions of employees and opens up even more to the industry 4.0 model.
• Production efficiency. When the project is monitored at every stage, the production cycle is improved – even on large numbers – saving time, costs and energy.
• Low consumption. Laser technology is faster than other types of traditional processing: this optimises consumption, including energy, and reduces production costs.
• Reduced maintenance. Laser technology does not require frequent maintenance; moreover, thanks to the computerised system, machine monitoring is constant, punctual and precise. In this case, any replacements or interventions are targeted, fast and timely.

Laser processing for stainless steel and metals

Laser technology for metal machining has improved a lot over the years and can meet the different needs of the sector. Laser, in particular, can be used for four processes. 

1. Cutting

The laser cutting procedure for steel and metals consists in the thermal separation of the material to obtain the desired geometry. After setting up the machining project on the system, the laser beam strikes the surface of the sheet of material to be processed and begins the operations remotely, as programmed. It allows different types of materials to be cut with high precision, with different thicknesses and of any shape, without inaccuracies. 

2. Welding

Laser welding for steel and metals allows to join two or more pieces of metal into one. To do this, the equipment must direct the laser beam onto the pieces to be joined, generating thermal energy that locally heats the material, melting it. Welding can be limited to a single point or continue along the entire length. Also in this case, the processing takes place remotely and is precise, burr-free and long-lasting.

3. Combined laser punching

The punching combined with laser should also be mentioned. With this process, holes are obtained on the metal sheet thanks to the strong and repeated pressure of a pointed tool on the metal (the punch), which deforms the surface until the desired hole and shape are obtained. To reduce processing time, costs and improve the production result, there are systems that combine punching with laser cutting technology.

4. Engraving

Laser engraving on metal and stainless steel is used to customise a product, for example to create company logos, names or designs, even in colour, but without the use of inks or other chemicals. To proceed with engraving, you need first to create the layout of the desired design, using a common graphics programme, and then proceed with machining. 

5. Marking

Similar to engraving, laser marking for metals and stainless steel is a process that allows to imprint a mark on the material and differs from the former in the type of processing. Marking, in fact, melts the metal by creating grooves; whereas engraving vaporises it. Marking is used for aesthetic reasons (e.g. to add customised logos and graphics to the metal) but above all to facilitate industrial traceability without the use of inks, acids or solvents. Being a permanent process, it is counterfeit-proof.

Applications of laser technology in metalworking: from shape cuts to welding

High precision, cleanliness and speed of execution make laser technology one of the most requested procedures to realise projects for companies operating in various markets: including the metalworking one. A sector that goes from medical to food industries, from packaging to bottling.

Laser cutting technology, for example, allows to make shaped cuts on stainless steel sheets to give shape to the details that make up appliances such as ovens, industrial dishwashers, and elements for professional kitchens or refrigeration. Thanks to laser cutting, then, it is possible to create particular and clean joints and geometries, following a customised design agreed with the customer in the initial stages of the project. Similarly, laser welding allows different metal parts to be joined together without burrs and imperfections. For example, by setting up the laser welding system remotely, through automation, it is possible to join steel elements such as those of a switchboard or electrical cabinet, doors or other elements of the desired product.

To achieve the best result, specific state-of-the-art systems are needed for the various phases of laser processing on metal, followed by a team of workers specialised in laser cutting and welding, as well as in marking or engraving. The latter are processes that may be required by the customer to engrave or imprint details on the material. For example, they are useful for adding the shape of a clock or a brand logo on an industrial oven, without adding inks or applying adhesives. 

Therefore, this technology – which allows cutting, welding, marking and engraving of different layers of material and even on different types of material (such as glass or plastic) – is perfect for the production of complex assemblies and machines parts for example for the catering industry such as ovens, meat processing machines, slicers, homogenizers, liquid and solid separators.

The advantages of laser technology for the food and pharmaceutical sector

The applications of laser technology on stainless steel and metals are numerous and advantageous, and recommended especially in certain sectors, such as the food and pharmaceutical industries, which have to meet particular hygienic-sanitary requirements, guarantee correct cleaning of machinery, and ensure traceability.

Choosing stainless steel as the material for manufacturing products for this sector, rather than other metals, is already a good starting point for responding to the needs of these markets. Stainless steel, in fact, prevents contamination, is hygienic and lasts longer than the others.

In particular, at Metal’s we have chosen to keep processes involving other materials separate: any processes on non-stainless steel products are isolated in separate locations. In this way, powders from other materials cannot contaminate stainless steel products or compromise their characteristics.

Using laser technology in these areas offers numerous advantages. In particular:

• enables fast, precision machining that optimises time and production;
• ensures maximum hygiene in the product manufacture as the laser never touches the surface, thus also avoiding any contamination
• offers quality processing that needs no further touching up or finishing
• does not require the use of chemicals, adhesives and chemical additives;
• allows product components to be easily identified by marking, facilitating traceability and the inclusion of key data such as batch number and expiry date on the packaging of food packaging products, avoiding additional packaging.

For this reason, laser technology is increasingly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries to make, for example, oven chambers, mincing machines, meat processing machines, slicers, homogenisers, liquid and solid separators as well as x-ray systems or parts of medical machines, with high-performance, easy to clean and sanitise.

Laser cutting and welding: Metal’s excellence

Laser machining is definitely the most modern technology in the field of steel processing. It offers numerous advantages and evolves over time, perfecting itself in every aspect. At Metal’s, we decided to invest in this type of processing right from the start, focusing mainly on welding and cutting, also offering marking and engraving services, according to customer requests.

Our fleet of laser technology machines, always at the forefront

Furthermore, at Metal’s, we have chosen environmentally friendly and energy-saving equipment that allows us to maximise production, reducing consumption to respect the environment, but without sacrificing the quality of the work. We have a large fleet of laser cutting and welding machines, in operation every day of the week, 24 hours a day.

As far as laser cutting is concerned, which corresponds to the first processing stages in the production process, we have – among others – a MITSUBISHI fibra 8 kW laser cutting system with 3000×1500 planes with a cutting capacity of up to 200/10 stainless steel with automatic loading/unloading which allows us to process stainless steel of different thicknesses. We can also carry out drawing with a height of up to 20 mm, threading and, in some cases, bending thanks to equipment that combines laser cutting and punching technologies.

Welding, on the other hand, is one of the finishing stages of the process. At Metal’s, in addition to pulsed TIG and digital MIG equipment, used on robotic islands, we can carry out laser welding processes that allow for easy cleaning and restoration of surfaces. Our welders are certified according to UNI EN ISO 9606-1:2017 and the quality of our welds is certified EN ISO 3834-2:2021.

New purchases with laser technology

In order to improve production efficiency and offer increasingly targeted services in Metal’s, we decided to invest in the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment.

For example, we added a new 8 kW Mitsubishi laser fibra laser cutting system with 4000×2000 tables and Astes4 part separator, capable of processing stainless steel thicknesses up to 250/10. Equipped with a 12-drawer automatic nesting tower, fully automated part picking and sorting technology, this plant greatly simplifies the machining process, allowing a smooth production flow with minimal human interference and logistics.

Another plant can cut pre-bent, deep-drawn parts, profiles and welded assemblies in 3 dimensions.

As far as welding is concerned, on the other hand, we have recently introduced new welding machines with fiber laser technology in our production departments. A valid alternative to the best-known welding processes – such as MIG and TIG, for example – in order to speed up production, obtain a clean product with great aesthetic quality, minimizing pre and post welding operations.

One of our next goals is to develop a new automated plant with this laser welding technology, with the aim of improving efficiency while maintaining high-quality levels.

Do you want to know more?

Rely on Metal’s to give shape to your projects. Our fleet includes laser technologies for metalworking and state-of-the-art equipment for cutting, welding and, if necessary, marking and engraving.

At Metal’s we process stainless steel to realize assemblies, semi-finished products and machine parts for various markets, and above all we provide a service covering the entire logistical process, because we have chosen to be not just a supplier for our customers, but a partner specialised in the realisation of technologically advanced solutions.

Our service includes technical consulting, engineering, selection and purchase of raw materials, coordination of suppliers involved in the process and production to meet the specific needs of companies operating in different markets: from medical to food processing and packaging. As far as raw materials are concerned, our customers can suggest their suppliers or rely on us for their choice. In this way we can be the single point of contact for the entire project, optimising time and maximising production.

Our production process: technology and organisation

We handle our production process in a meticulous and at the same time flexible way, coordinating all parties involved so that high quality standards are met at every stage and to ensure on-time deliveries, eliminating waste and delays. Ours is lean production, designed to offer maximum efficiency and reliability. The fully automated process includes:

• laser cutting;
• punching (combined with laser);
• bending;
• pressing;
• welding;
• brushing;
• assembly;
• mould making;
• quality control.

We can perform extremely precise machining in very short times, thanks also to our machine pool, which includes laser cutting systems, bending machines, robotic systems and others. All selected for their extremely high technology and precision. State-of-the-art solutions, in constant operation (24/7), led by our experienced technicians, always up-to-date with the latest innovations.

For example, thanks to the laser punching plant – equipped with a 59-tool tower, two of which are multi-tools – we can carry out any type of drawing, while the laser cutting machines allow us to cut steel in different thicknesses, up to 20 mm.

The result of our work: stainless steel assemblies, parts and semi-finished products for various sectors

We have been processing and assembling stainless steel for over 35 years to produce complex assemblies, machine parts, semi-finished products and components for large and medium-sized structured companies, operating both in Italy and internationally in various sectors.

Complex assemblies and machine parts in stainless steel 

We assemble stainless steel with different types of components (such as glass parts, plastics, wiring harnesses) to achieve complex assemblies in advanced stage of assembly. For example, we manufacture devices for the packaging, bottling, medical and pharma sectors.

Semi-finished products and components in stainless steel

We also produce semi-finished products and stainless steel components used in various fields. For example, our work includes accessories for large professional kitchens, stainless steel parts for the bakery market, products for meat processing, refrigeration and the ice cream industry. In addition, we design and create elements for professional dishwashers, switchboards and cabinets, and products for the pharmaceutical and medical sectors.

How we work: our philosophy, our method

At Metal’s we turn problems into solutions. This is our company philosophy, and to do this we provide our customers with the experience of technicians, engineers and skilled workers who follow every step of the process, from the costs evaluation and project feasibility to the realisation of a perfect product.

We do not simply receive an order, put forward a quote and proceed with its realisation. At Metal’s we have a proactive and consultative approach that follows the entire process, from prototyping to logistics:

• During the design phase, our engineering department evaluates the technical feasibility of the project, suggests improvement options and, if it identifies feasibility problems, proposes all possible solutions.
  
• Before proceeding with a project, we create a prototype that, once approved by the customer, attests the green light for production.
  
• At every stage of the production cycle, from the raw materials control to the final product finishing, we check that everything meets our strict quality standards. This allows us to meet every demand with flexibility and security, in the markets we have served so far and in new sectors.
  
• Once manufactured, all products must pass scrupulous control tests with the primary objective of meeting the targets set by our customers. Only in this way we can deliver high-quality assemblies, semi-finished products and parts, both in terms of performance and design, respecting the parameters and any customizations of the project.
  
• Last but not least, the people. Those who work at Metal’s are prepared, motivated, energetic. Qualities that determine the quality of work, enrich the relationship with our customers and characterize our company on the market. This is why continuous training is essential for us and from 2022 we have an in-house Metal’s Academy to train new resources.

Our certifications: a guarantee of safety, quality and sustainability

At Metal’s, we are committed to following advanced policies on quality, safety and sustainability, and have obtained international certifications such as ISO 9001:2015 for our management system, ISO 45001:2018 and ISO 14001:2015 related to occupational safety and health practices and our environmental management system.

For several years we have also adopted a corporate “Green Mission” to guide choices and investments with a view to sustainability, achieving important goals such as increasing green energy production, reducing waste and CO2 emissions.

Would you like to get in touch with us?

At Metal’s we carefully select customers to work with – medium-sized and large companies – and support them at every stage of the logistical flow: from conception to the realisation of stainless steel assemblies, semi-finished products and machine parts. Want to know more?