Silver-colored formed sheet metal bracket with mounting holes, placed on a white textured surface.

Online sheet metal fabrication Irvine | Sheet metal manufacturing services

Stop Paying "Black Box" Markups. Enable True JIT.

Eliminate the 5-day latency of warehouse inspections and the hidden costs of traditional supply chains. partZpro® enables strict Dock-to-Stock JIT execution by exposing the factory’s original invoice and shipping directly from the machine to you. We trade slow inspections for Escrow-backed accountability, ensuring an unbroken chain of custody where your capital is protected until the parts are verified.

Comparison infographic showing two supply chain processes: the old way with a middleman causing a 5-day delay involving a factory, a generic unbox/rebox center, and delivery to your door, versus the direct dock-to-stock way using a precision CNC machine, a scanner, and an engineer's desk allowing instant processing.
"The best service and quality for the right price! Really professional and always trying to help the customer! Definitely great!" - Daniel Climber

"Accurate delivery times and fast service. I have been very satisfied with the parts that I have purchased." - Tony Lazaro

"Excellent service and fast turnaround at a competitive price. Items were delivered to our office in New Zealand within 1 month of placing the order, and all parts were within design tolerances." - Corben Taylor

"Great platform for CNC Machining. I ordered some parts to be CNC machined in Aluminum 6082 for a prototype build I am working on. Drawing was finished Tuesday, January 5th, and sent to my regular machining shops nearby. This time I also uploaded a STEP file of the design to partZpro to test their system after finding them on the internet. On January 6th, I received a quote for shipping and manufacturing. I was surprised by the easy process on their website and ordered the parts to test it out. A few days later, I sent an address update to sales to add some information for transport. Unbelievably, on the morning of Monday, January 11th, DHL was at my doorstep delivering the parts. Shipping had the updated information. We are talking about less than 4 working days, delivered from the other side of the world, and that's before my nearby shops had even responded with their quote and lead time. The parts delivered were a perfect fit, better than specified tolerance, and had a great surface finish. I will definitely look into this service when I need parts next time." - Rune Kvamme

"I recently used PartZPro for a prototype to be made from a 3D file into aluminum. I'm super happy I did. Cost was a fraction of its competitors' and turnaround was about a month, during holidays. Parts were very accurate and now my prototype is one step closer to being finalized. Will most definitely use again." - Matt Faxon

"Response time is incredibly fast. I am impressed, and it adds to their credibility. Will do business with them again ASAP." - Mark Scallan

"Great job on products that I have ordered." - ASG Astrology

"Great service, pricing, and speed." - Paul Murtagh

"Parts are always made to your design specifications. Reasonable prices and fast turnaround." - Dennis Tang

"A very prompt quotation and efficient processing of our order. CNC machining was executed exactly as requested. Delivery was pretty fast, even faster than quoted." - Andre Dussault

sheet metal shop near me

partZpro® Virtual Factory, is NOT another Order-Taker

  • Secure Escrow Payment Protection

    We don't pay the shop until you approve the parts.

  • Free "Cost-Driver Analysis Engine"

    Data-driven analysis included with every quote.

  • No-Cost Sample Options

    Verify quality before full production.

  • Bulk Order Discounts

    Scalable pricing for high-volume runs.

  • 1 to 100,000+ Part Capacity

    Unlike the competition, we don't fragment your project into small job shops.

  • No Vendor Roulette

    View Shop IDs on your dashboard and reorder from the same partner for consistent quality.

  • Direct Factory-to-Door Shipping

    Save up to 50% transit time. We ship direct—no middleman sticker swaps.

  • Expert-Refined Quotes

    Vetted qualified manufacturers.

  • Up to 50-70% Cost Savings

    Direct sourcing without the middleman markup.

  • No Platform Charges for Buyers

    Transparent pricing with zero hidden fees.

  • Fast Turnaround (7-10 days)

    Rapid prototyping and production delivery.

How Our Manufacturing Platform Works?

Step 1 Upload Design
Step 01

Upload Your Design in Seconds

Experience instant feedback with our high-performance stack, built on the same C++ architecture used by industry-standard CAD kernels. Securely upload your designs to the partZpro® AI platform with confidence—your IP is protected and stored on Google Cloud (GCP) infrastructure. Servers (GCP) in the United States.

Step 2 AI Analysis
Step 02

Receive Instant AI Analysis

Other platforms give you a "Black Box" price—a single number with no explanation. We give you an engineering breakdown. Our AI instantly evaluates your geometry against 100+ manufacturing constraints.

Case Study: Aluminum 6061-T6 Cylinder Connector

Competitor Quote: $325.00 (No explanation)
partZpro® Part Cost: $120.00
partZpro® Setup Cost: $205.00 (⚠️ High Risk)
Step 3 Optimize
Step 03

Optimize with Actionable Insights

✅ Free Light DFM (included with every quote)
  • Instant sanity check: 8-Point Critical Check (Wall thickness, hole depth, sharp corners).
  • Price Transparency: Separate breakdown for Material, Setup, and Shipping.
  • Regional Pricing: Instantly compare US vs. China/Vietnam costs.
🚀 Pro 40-Point Engineering Deep Dive
  • Comprehensive risk mitigation: 40+ Advanced Checks including tool accessibility & tolerances.
  • Visual Heat Maps: See exactly where money is accumulating on your 3D model.
  • Manufacturing Logic: We flag why a feature is expensive.
Upload CAD for Instant Analysis → Secure upload. Engineers review every flagged risk.
Step 4 Delivery
Step 04

Submit for RFQ with Confidence

Once your design is optimized, seamlessly submit it to our vetted network of manufacturers to get accurate quotes. We handle the communication, ensuring your parts are made to spec and delivered on time.

Most platforms operate as "Public Bid Boards," distributing your files to thousands of shops to find the lowest bidder. We don't. Your manufacturing is restricted to a Private Network of Hand-Picked Partners, so you never have to play "Vendor Roulette."

Step 5 Direct Shipping
Step 05

Direct Shipping & True Cost

Parts ship directly from the factory to your door, accompanied by the original factory invoice.

Unlike standard "order takers" or brokers that act as opaque middlemen—obscuring the true cost to add hidden markups—we provide complete commercial transparency. By connecting you directly to the source, we ensure you pay the actual manufacturing price rather than an inflated broker rate.

Common Materials Provided by Our Network for Sheet Metal Fabrication Include

Aluminum 5052

  • What it is: Mainly aluminum, with some magnesium and chromium.
  • Key Features: It's strong and resists corrosion well. It welds easily and can handle fatigue pretty well.
  • Where it's used: You'll find it in marine settings, aircraft fuel tanks, streetlights, and some architectural designs.

Aluminum 5754

  • Composition: Aluminum and magnesium with a bit of other stuff.
  • Why it's Good: Superb at fighting off corrosion, especially from seawater and dirty air. Welds nicely too.
  • Uses: Great for strong welded structures like in boats, and parts in cars like doors.

301 Stainless Steel

  • What's in it: A mix of iron, chromium, and nickel.
  • Benefits: It's very flexible, fights off corrosion, and is really strong.
  • Typical Uses: Found in parts of airplanes, buildings, vehicle bodies, and conveyor belts.

304 Stainless Steel

  • Composition: Iron, chromium, nickel, and a touch of carbon.
  • Why Choose it: Awesome at resisting corrosion, easy to form and weld.
  • Common Applications: You'll see it in kitchen gear, building panels, and containers for chemicals.

316 Stainless Steel

  • What it Contains: Iron, chromium, nickel, and molybdenum.
  • Specialty: It's especially good against chloride and sea water corrosion.
  • Where it's Found: Used in boats, chemical equipment, and even surgical tools.

Low Carbon Steel 1018

  • Composition: Low carbon steel enriched with manganese.
  • Key Features: Easy to weld, strong, and easy to shape.
  • Where it's Used: Ideal for making plates, spacers, and various fixtures.

Mild Steel 1020

  • What it is: A type of mild carbon steel.
  • Advantages: Flexible, strong, and easy to weld.
  • Applications: Good for parts that are carburized, like gears, pins, and dowels.

Mild Steel 1045

  • Composition: A medium carbon steel.
  • Strengths: Stronger and harder than lower carbon steels.
  • Typical Uses: Used in making axles, bolts, rods, and hydraulic rams.

Mild Steel A36

  • What it's Made Of: A low carbon steel that's quite strong.
  • Benefits: Really weldable and strong.
  • Where it's Found: Common in building frames, bridges, and other structural applications.

Copper C110

  • Composition: Mostly copper, at least 99.9%.
  • Why it's Great: Conducts electricity really well and resists corrosion.
  • Common Uses: Used in electrical systems, roofing, plumbing, and various machinery.

Advantages of Sheet Metal Fabrication: Cost-Effectiveness, Versatility in Materials, Superior Durability, High Precision, and Rapid Production Capabilities

Our customers in
Irvine
benefit from our sheet metal manufacturing services more than local sheet metal manufacturing factilities

1. Design Flexibility

  • What it Offers: Sheet metal is super versatile. You can cut, bend, and shape it into almost any design. This means custom and complex designs are easy to do in product manufacturing.

2. Tough and Strong

  • Why it's Good: Sheet metal products are really tough. They handle high pressures, extreme temperatures, and tough conditions well. This makes them great for lots of industrial uses.

3. Saves Money

  • How it Helps: Making things with sheet metal often costs less than other methods, especially when you're making a lot of something. It's efficient, cuts down on labor costs, and wastes less material.

4. Light but Strong

  • Key Advantage: Sheet metal products are strong but not heavy. This is really useful in industries like car making and aerospace, where keeping weight down is important.

5. Quick to Produce

  • What's Cool About It: Modern ways of working with sheet metal, like using lasers and automation, mean you can make things really fast. This helps get projects done quicker.

6. Precision and Quality

  • High-Tech Edge: Using advanced tech like CNC machines means you can be really precise with sheet metal. This leads to consistent, high-quality products.

7. Looks Great

  • Visual Appeal: You can finish sheet metal in different ways to make it look good. These finishes also protect against corrosion and wear.

8. Good for the Planet

  • Eco-Friendly: You can recycle sheet metal, which is great for the environment. This is a big plus for people and industries that care about being green.

9. Meets Specific Needs

  • Industry-Specific: Different industries need different things, and sheet metal can be tailored to meet these specific needs. It's used in everything from electronics to construction.10. Works Well with Tech
  • Advanced Integration: Sheet metal fabrication goes hand-in-hand with high-tech stuff like AI and robotics. This makes it even more efficient and opens up new possibilities in design and production.

Challenges and Solutions in Sheet Metal Prototypes

1. Material Limits

  • Challenge: Some metals are hard to work with because they're too hard or brittle. This can make cutting and shaping them difficult.

2. Precision and Consistency

  • Difficulty: Keeping things precise and consistent, especially in large runs or with complex designs, is tough.

3. Cost Balancing

  • Issue: It's hard to keep costs in check, especially with custom jobs or small batches. Material, labor, and operation costs all need careful management.

4. Design Challenges

  • Hurdle: Turning detailed designs into real metal pieces without losing any detail or functionality is a big challenge.

5. Waste Management

  • Ongoing Issue: Dealing with waste material and cutting down on scrap is always a challenge in sheet metal work.

6. Need for Skilled Workers

  • Labor Shortage: There aren't always enough skilled workers, which can affect the quality and timing of the work.

7. Tech Integration

  • Tech Challenge: Keeping up with fast-moving technology and blending new methods into old processes can be expensive and slow.

8. Environmental Concerns

  • Impact: The impact on the environment, like energy use and emissions, is a growing worry in metal fabrication.

9. Safety First

  • Critical Issue: Making sure workers are safe around heavy machinery and dangerous materials is crucial.

10. Market Shifts

  • Adaptability: Quickly changing production to match market demands is hard but necessary.

Solutions in Sheet Metal Fabrication

1. Better Materials

  • What's New: Using advanced alloys and treatments to make materials easier to work with and overcome limitations.

2. High-Tech for Precision

  • Tech Edge: Using CNC machinery and automation for exact precision and consistent results.

3. Smart Design

  • Cost-Saving: Using software for efficient design and prototyping helps cut costs and reduce waste.

4. 3D CAD Modeling

  • Tech Tool: Employing 3D CAD software to turn complex designs into metal parts that can be made.

5. Going Green

  • Eco-Friendly Moves: Using recycled materials and energy-efficient machines to lessen environmental harm.

6. Skilling Up Workers

  • Investment: Putting money into training and developing skilled workers to meet industry needs.

7. Tech Updates

  • Continual Improvement: Constantly upgrading tech, including AI and machine learning, for smarter production.

8. Safety First

  • Protocols: Having strict safety rules and regular training to keep workers safe.

9. Adaptable Production

  • Flexibility: Making production lines that can quickly change to meet what the market wants.

10. Working Together

  • Partnerships: Teaming up with suppliers, clients, and tech experts to stay ahead in the industry.
sheet metal manufacturing near me

Our Offerings in Sheet Metal Fabrication Technology

1. Cutting

  • Description: Cutting is the process of slicing the sheet metal into the desired shape or size. It can be done manually or using various automated machines.
  • Techniques: Shearing, laser cutting, plasma cutting, and waterjet cutting.
  • Applications: Used to create flat sheets of metal in specific shapes and sizes before further processing.

2. Bending

  • Description: Bending involves deforming the metal into angles or shapes without breaking it.
  • Techniques: Press brake bending, roll bending, and folding.
  • Applications: Used in making enclosures, brackets, and various components in construction and machinery.

3. Punching

  • Description: Punching is the process of creating holes or shapes in the metal sheet by applying a high force.
  • Techniques: Turret presses and punch presses.
  • Applications: Used for panels, decorative patterns, and components requiring holes.

4. Stamping

  • Description: Stamping involves placing the metal sheet in a press where a tool and die surface forms the metal into a new shape.
  • Techniques: Progressive die stamping, compound die stamping, and forming.
  • Applications: Used for high-volume production, like automotive parts and electronic components.

5. Welding

  • Description: Welding is the process of joining two pieces of metal together by melting their edges and adding a filler material.
  • Techniques: MIG welding, TIG welding, spot welding, and seam welding.
  • Applications: Used in automotive, construction, and industrial applications.

6. Machining

  • Description: Machining involves removing parts of the metal to achieve the desired shape.
  • Techniques: Milling, drilling, and turning.
  • Applications: Used for creating precise components in aerospace and automotive industries.

7. Forming

  • Description: Forming changes the shape of the metal sheet without removing any material.
  • Techniques: Stretch forming, spin forming, and peen forming.
  • Applications: Used in creating curved or complex shapes, like satellite dishes or aerospace components.

8. Finishing

  • Description: Finishing improves the appearance, surface smoothness, and corrosion resistance of the metal.
  • Techniques: Sandblasting, powder coating, painting, and anodizing.
  • Applications: Used to enhance product appearance and durability.

9. Assembly

  • Description: Assembly involves joining various metal parts together to form a complete product.
  • Techniques: Riveting, bolting, and adhesive bonding.
  • Applications: Used in the final assembly of products like machinery, vehicles, and structural frameworks.

Our Sheet Metal Manufacturing Surface Finishe Services

1. Powder coating

  • Description: A dry finishing process where a powdered paint is electrostatically applied and then cured under heat.
  • Advantages: Provides a tough, uniform, and durable finish, available in a wide range of colors.
  • Applications: Used in automotive parts, home appliances, and industrial equipment.

2. Anodizing

  • Description: An electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish.
  • Advantages: Enhances natural oxide layers, provides better adhesion for paint primers.
  • Applications: Commonly used for aluminum parts in aerospace and consumer electronics.

3. Painting

  • Description: Application of liquid paint on a metal surface for color and protection.
  • Advantages: Wide color selection, cost-effective for large quantities.
  • Applications: Used in automotive bodies, construction equipment, and household appliances.

4. Plating

  • Description: Coating the metal with a thin layer of another metal like chrome, zinc, or nickel.
  • Advantages: Increases corrosion resistance, enhances appearance.
  • Applications: Used in automotive parts, hardware, and electrical components.

5. Brushing

  • Description: Using a brush or abrasive belt to create a unidirectional satin finish.
  • Advantages: Produces a distinctive look with a pattern of fine lines.
  • Applications: Commonly used for stainless steel appliances and architectural elements.

6. Polishing

  • Description: A process of creating a smooth and shiny surface by rubbing or using chemical action.
  • Advantages: Achieves a high gloss or mirror finish.
  • Applications: Used in decorative items, mirrors, and reflective components.

7. Blasting

  • Description: Propelling a stream of abrasive material against the surface under high pressure.
  • Advantages: Removes impurities, prepares the surface for painting or coating.
  • Applications: Often used in preparing automotive parts and industrial machinery.

8. Passivation

  • Description: Treating or coating a metal to reduce the chemical reactivity of its surface.
  • Advantages: Increases resistance to corrosion.
  • Applications: Essential for stainless steel components in medical devices and kitchenware.

9. Electropolishing

  • Description: An electrochemical process that removes material from a metallic workpiece to polish, passivate, and deburr it.
  • Advantages: Smooths the surface and enhances the shine.
  • Applications: Used in pharmaceutical, food processing, and aerospace components.

10. Hot blackening

  • Description: Applying a black oxide coating through a series of dipping in various hot chemicals.
  • Advantages: Provides mild corrosion resistance and reduces light glare.
  • Applications: Common in automotive parts, gears, and tools.

partZpro Frequently Asked Questions

The "Open-Book" Business Model

Q: Why is there a factory invoice in the box?
That is your Commercial Import Invoice. Because we ship Factory Direct to your door, international customs requires an invoice that travels with the package.
  • Transparency & Compliance: This invoice lists the origin factory (showing you exactly who made your parts) and declares the exact value you paid at checkout.
  • Why it matches your payment: We ensure the commercial invoice matches your transaction value so that Customs calculates your duties correctly and legally, preventing delays or penalties at the border.
Q: If I have the factory’s info, why shouldn't I just go direct next time?
You can, but our clients stick with us for the "US Shield." When you order through PartzPro, your money is held in a US-based Escrow until the parts are delivered and verified. If you go direct, you are sending money overseas with zero recourse. We handle the legal leverage, language barriers, and financial security to ensure the factory prioritizes your job over others.
Q: What exactly does your Service Fee cover?
Your fee covers Financial Security (Escrow), Vendor Vetting, AI Engineering Analysis, and Project Management. We act as your US-based legal firewall. We find the best factories, negotiate the rates, and hold the money until the job is done right.

Logistics, Customs & AI Technology

Q: Who handles the HTS Codes and Customs paperwork?
Our AI does the heavy lifting; you just confirm the release. We don't leave you guessing on complex government tariffs.
  • Heavy AI Analysis: Our proprietary AI Assistant performs a 40-point analysis of your part's geometry and material. It automatically searches the official US Government HTS database to generate a precise HTS Code Breakdown for your specific parts.
  • The Process: This data is provided to the carrier (DHL/FedEx/UPS). When the broker contacts you, the classification is already estimated—you simply confirm it to release the shipment.
Q: Who pays the duties?
You do—which saves you money. Because we ship DAP (Delivered at Place), you pay the exact duties owed to the government based on the AI-generated HTS code.
  • Why this is better: Competitors who offer "Free Shipping/DDP" often inflate the price to cover the worst-case tariff scenario. By paying the actual duties yourself, you ensure you are never overcharged for import taxes.
Q: How fast is shipping?
Since we skip the "Middleman Warehouse," our standard international shipping is extremely fast (typically 3–5 days transit). Your parts fly directly from the machine shop to your desk.

Quality Assurance & Liability

Q: Competitors inspect parts at a US warehouse before shipping. Why don't you?
Because "double handling" kills speed and adds unnecessary cost. We operate on a "Dock-to-Stock" model. The factory performs the rigorous QC, and parts ship directly to you.

We treat you like a professional: we know you will verify the fit and function of your parts upon arrival. By removing the redundant middleman inspection, we save you 30% on cost and 3–5 days on lead time.
Q: What happens if the parts arrive out of spec?
You are protected by the PartzPro Escrow Guarantee. Because we hold the funds, the factory does not get paid until you are satisfied. If parts are non-conforming, simply upload a photo and inspection report. We will either force an immediate priority remake at the factory’s expense or issue a refund. You stay in control.
Q: Does your AI just check for geometry errors?
No. Our AI Cost-Driver Audit goes beyond simple DFM (Design for Manufacturing). It helps you perform Value Engineering by highlighting features that are disproportionately expensive (e.g., deep pockets, tight radii, non-standard threads). We show you the cost drivers so you can engineer the price down before you order.

Payments & Corporate Orders

Q: We are a company, not a hobbyist. Can we pay via Purchase Order (PO)?
Yes. We specialize in serving agile engineering departments and mid-sized manufacturing firms.
  • How to order with a PO: You can select "Pay via PO / Wire" at checkout or email our sales team directly with your PO attached. We will verify your company details and send a payment link or wire instructions immediately so production isn't delayed.
Q: Do you offer Net-30 Terms?
We offer terms to qualified business partners after an initial credit review. Please contact our sales team to set up your corporate account. For new customers, we recommend using our PO-to-Wire workflow for the fastest start.

Trusted Online Sheet Metal Fabrication Around the Globe

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