Red Seal Metal Fabricator (Fitter) Practice Exam

Which tool is commonly used to bend metal sheets in fabrication?

1. A torch

2. A brake

3. A shear

4. A plasma cutter

The correct answer is: A brake

The tool used to bend metal sheets in fabrication is known as a brake. A brake is specifically designed for this purpose, allowing for precise and controlled bends in metal sheets of various thicknesses and materials, such as aluminum, stainless steel, and mild steel. Brakes come in different types, including manual and hydraulic variations, providing the versatility needed for different bending applications. They are commonly used in metal fabrication shops for creating angles, bends, and folds in sheets to prepare them for further fabrication or assembly processes. In contrast, a torch is primarily used for cutting or welding materials rather than bending them. A shear is designed for cutting materials, allowing for straight cuts through sheets of metal but not for bending. A plasma cutter, on the other hand, utilizes a high-temperature plasma jet to cut through metal but does not serve the function of bending either. Thus, in the context of metal sheet fabrication, the brake is the only tool option that directly addresses bending functions, making it the correct choice.