Sheet Metal

Sheet metal workers make, install, and maintain air-conditioning, heating, ventilation, and air pollution control duct systems; roofs; siding; rain gutters; downspouts; skylights; restaurant equipment, outdoor signs; and many other products made from metal sheets. They also work with fiberglass and plastic materials. Although some workers specialize in fabrication, installation, or maintenance, most do all three jobs.

Sheet metal workers first study plans and specifications to determine the kind and quantity of materials they will need. They then measure, cut, bend, shape, and fasten pieces of sheet metal to make ductwork, counter tops, and other custom products. In an increasing number of shops, sheet metal workers use computerized metalworking equipment. This enables them to experiment with different layouts and to select the one that results in the least waste of material. They cut or form parts with computer -

controlled saws, lasers, shears, and presses.

In shops without computerized equipment, and for products that cannot be made on such equipment, sheet metal workers use hand calculators to make the required calculations and use tapes, rulers, and other measuring devices for layout work. They then cut or stamp the parts on machine tools.

These workers install ducts, pipes, and tubes by joining them end to end and hanging them with metal hangers secured to a ceiling or wall. They also use shears, hammers, punches, and drills to make parts at the worksite or to alter parts made in the shop. Some jobs are done completely at the job site. When installing a metal roof , for example, sheet metal workers measure and cut the roofing panels that are needed to complete the job. In addition to installation, some workers specialize in testing, balancing, adjusting, and servicing existing airconditioning and ventilation systems to make sure they are functioning properly and to improve their energy effeciency.