CO₂ lasers were used predominantly for cutting flat sheet metal for many years. Advancements in laser beam quality, power, manipulation, and material handling features have propelled the CO₂ laser into new areas of fabrication. Multidimensional cutting, increased cutting capacity, and the ability to cut a wider range of material types make the CO₂ laser a popular thermal cutting process in today's metal fabrication industry.

Capitalizing on the latest laser and information sharing technology, theAustralian auto industry is working to achieve critical mass within itsdomestic market and to take advantage of the opportunities offered bye-commerce.

Editor's Note: This is the first installment of a two-part article. Part 1 covers the properties, characteristics, and applications of aluminum as a structural metal. Part II explores the use of structural aluminum in the design of the U.S. Botanic Garden's conservatory in Washington, D.C.

Editor's Note: This article is Part II of a four-part series covering flatness and stability in cut-to-length, slitting, and tension leveling operations. This article discusses flattening solutions and the anatomy of a bend. Part I, which appeared in the October issue of The FABRICATOR®, discussed how flat-rolled metal gets unflat; Part III in the December issue will address how coil processors can make metal flat so it stays that way; and Part IV in the January 2003 issue will discuss new applications and options in leveling equipment.

Wrayco Industries Inc., Stow, Ohio, a 20-year-old family-owned precision fabricating shop, produces steel fabricated fuel tanks, hydraulic reservoirs, and fenders for a leading heavy construction equipment manufacturer. The company employs 102 and has more than 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space.