The term “sheet metal” means a flat sheet of metal, characterized by its dimensions of width, length, and especially thickness, as well as, of course, by the type of metal of which it is composed.
At this stage, through appropriate more or less complex equipment, the sheet metal is cut or shaped according to the designer’s drawings.
Commonly, numerically controlled machines are used that operate oxy-cutting, plasma cutting, laser cutting or water cutting, depending on the case.

Where required, cut sheets are bent along certain lines and at certain angles, or calendered to form a three-dimensional object.
The machines used are hydraulic press-benders for angle bending or calenders for radiused bending.

The term “profiles” denotes metal elements developed in length with a constant section, “profile,” and which are marketed in bars; for example, plates, angles, pipes, beams.
At this stage, the bars are appropriately cut into parts according to project measurements.
More or less large and complex band saws are usually used, more rarely laser systems.