Sheet Metal Worker/Plater

Also known as:

Metal Worker, Sheet
Plater, Metal

Introduction

Sheet metal workers work with thin metal sheets (up to 3mm thick) which they bend, cut and shape using hammers, small presses, roller machines and guillotines.

Platers work with metal plate that is thicker than 3mm. They use heavy duty cutters and burners and large rolling and pressing machines.

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Work Activities

Sheet metal workers and platers both work with flat sheets or plates of metal to make things, although there are some differences between their jobs.

Sheet metal workers cut and shape thin sheets of metal, which can be up to 3mm thick. They can cut these sheets by using hand and machine saws and snips; and use special hammers, and small presses and rollers to create bends and curves.

It takes considerable skill to achieve a smooth, even curve without creating flaws or dents in the metal. They use giant presses to make mass produced items like car bodies. However, sheet metal workers also make single items or small batches (up to 200) of things like laboratory sinks, ventilation ducts, and housings and guards for processing machines.

Following technical drawings, they draw out the shapes they need on the flat metal. They use mathematical calculations to mark out the shapes on flat metal; this involves taking into account the way metal may stretch or contract.

They use a range of hand and machine tools to cut and shape the metal and to drill or stamp holes. They may hammer down (planish) excess surface weld metal. Some sheet metal workers specialise in the more complex techniques or in operating one or more of the machines.

Platers handle metal plates thicker than 3mm. Sometimes they work with very heavy metal plate, so they need to use cranes and hoists to move the plate around. They use heavy-duty guillotines to cut the plates, and burners (flame-cutters) for curves and complex shapes - these may be computer-controlled. They use giant rollers and presses to curve and bend the plates.

Some platers refer to drawings to mark out the lines for cutting and write on codes to specify positions for assembly. Other platers set up the pieces of cut plate in position for the assembled item using metal blocks, clamps and other methods. They may clean and file or grind edges to prepare them for welding, and may tack weld the pieces together (a temporary weld, using a few spots of welding to hold the work in position, before the welder completes the job). On exposed surfaces, platers may grind and buff off excess weld metal for a smooth finish.

Platers help to make, modify or repair products like ships, agricultural and construction machines, storage tanks, large boilers, containers and pipework for chemicals. They may be involved in erecting power stations, chemical plants and oil rigs.

Sheet metal workers and platers may work in very noisy workshops, and wear ear-protectors, overalls and helmets where appropriate. They may wear safety boots, gloves and goggles.

Sheet metal workers work in small workshops. Platers work in giant workshops or outdoors, for example, on a partially built ship or a construction engineering site that may be exposed to the weather.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

To be a sheet metal worker or plater, you must be able to work safely in a hazardous environment. Both sheet metal workers and platers need strong practical skills and a logical, well-organised and thorough approach to their work. They also need the ability to follow engineering drawings.

Sheet metal workers need good observational skills to spot flaws or dents. Attention to detail is very important when using marking out and measuring equipment. Good number skills are needed to take measurements and use calculations to work out shape sizes.

Platers need good colour vision because colour codes may be used as markers on the plate. Both platers and sheet metal workers need to be fit enough to cope with lifting, bending and stretching.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Sheet metal workers/platers earn in the range of £270 - £320 a week, rising to £370 - £440 a week. Higher earners can make around £580 a week.

They usually work a basic 39-40 hour week. Overtime may be available.

Employers are light engineering firms, specialist vehicle manufacturers and aerospace companies that have a sheet metal work department.

Other people work for firms specialising in sheet metal work or manufacturing sheet metal products in small batches for customers. Companies are mainly in the Midlands and South East of England.

Platers work in heavy engineering and related industries such as shipbuilding and construction engineering. Many heavy engineering and shipbuilding firms are in the north of England and Scotland. In engineering construction, platers may work in other countries.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Applicants with a background in relevant areas, such as welding and metal work, have an advantage.

Some people may become sheet metal workers after jobs involving vehicle body repair.

It may be possible for people with other skills in heavy engineering to retrain as platers. Work experience as a plater's assistant is useful.

Modern Apprenticeships may be available in some areas.

• 1% of sheet metal workers/platers work part-time.
• 7% have flexible hours.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as renewable energy.