What does a Sheet Metal Mechanic do?
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A sheet metal mechanic is a worker who fabricates, installs, and repairs sheet metal products. Sheet metal products are used in a variety of industries, including construction, HVAC, and automotive. Sheet metal mechanics use a variety of tools to cut, bend, and shape sheet metal. They also use welding and soldering techniques to join pieces of sheet metal together.
Sheet Metal Mechanic job duties include:
- Study blueprints, sketches, or design specifications to determine the kind and size of sheet metal needed.
- Select the type of sheet metal, such as aluminum, steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, or titanium, according to project requirements.
- Cut sheet metal using power shears, hand shears, nibblers, or snips.
- Bend or fold sheet metal using a brake.
- Form expanded metal sheets by stretching the sheets with your hands or by using a power roller.
- Join together pieces of sheet metal using welding techniques or soldering and brazing equipment.
- Install prefabricated metal ductwork and connecting it to an existing HVAC system.
- Seal seams and joints of ductwork with mastic compound and fasten it together with screws or rivets.
- Install metal roofing systems on commercial buildings.
Sheet Metal Mechanic Job Requirements
Most sheet metal mechanics have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most employers provide on-the-job training. Some jobs may require certification from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). Sheet metal mechanics typically need several years of experience before they can work independently.
Sheet Metal Mechanic Skills
- Layout
- Operating shears
- Operating brakes
- Operating punch presses
- Operating notchers
- Operating coping machines
- Tapping
- Drilling
- Riveting
- Welding
- Measuring and cutting metal stock
- Assembling metal parts
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How to become a Sheet Metal Mechanic
A sheet metal mechanic is a skilled tradesman who fabricates, installs, and repairs sheet metal products. Sheet metal mechanics use a variety of tools and machines to cut, bend, and shape sheet metal into desired shapes. They may also weld or solder pieces together.
Most sheet metal mechanics have completed a formal apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-4 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. During their apprenticeship, sheet metal mechanics learn safety procedures, blueprint reading, mathematics, and physics. They also learn how to use various tools and machines.
Many sheet metal mechanics are members of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART). SMART is a labor union that represents over 140,000 workers in the United States and Canada.
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