Red Seal Metal Fabricator (Fitter) Practice Exam

How do drawing and shearing processes differ in metal fabrication?

1. Drawing cuts, while shearing forms

2. Drawing makes larger parts, shearing makes smaller

3. Drawing forms by pulling through a die, while shearing cuts with linear force

4. Both are used for welding metal sheets

The correct answer is: Drawing forms by pulling through a die, while shearing cuts with linear force

The drawing and shearing processes in metal fabrication serve distinct purposes and involve different mechanical actions. Drawing refers to a process where metal is transformed into a specific shape by being pulled through a die. This action reduces the cross-sectional area of the metal and elongates it, allowing for the creation of shaped parts like wires or tubes. The process utilizes tension as the primary force, making it effective for shaping metal without cutting it. On the other hand, shearing involves the cutting of metals using a linear force applied along a straight line. This process effectively separates the metal into distinct pieces or parts, which is necessary for tasks like trimming sheets and creating specific geometries. Shearing is characterized by the application of force that results in cutting without the removal of material. Understanding this distinction clarifies the unique roles that drawing and shearing play in metal fabrication. Drawing focuses on forming and shaping via tension, while shearing is all about cutting with a direct application of force.