Choosing the right metal is one of the most important decisions in any metal pressing project. It can impact everything from strength and durability to cost, performance, and production efficiency. At Three Way Pressings, we’ve been helping UK businesses make the right material choices for over 40 years – and in this guide, we’ll walk you through the key considerations to get it right.

Why Material Selection Matters

The metal you choose must match the demands of your component and the environment it will be used in. The wrong choice can lead to part failure, premature wear, or excessive production costs – all of which can be avoided with proper guidance and planning.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Function and Application

Think about what the pressed component needs to do:

Will it be structural or decorative?
Does it need to conduct electricity?
Will it be exposed to high temperatures, moisture, or chemicals?
Is corrosion resistance important?

Understanding the end-use is essential for narrowing down suitable metal options.

2. Mechanical Properties

Different metals offer varying levels of:

Strength
Hardness
Malleability
Ductility
Fatigue resistance

For example, mild steel is often used for structural parts due to its strength and affordability, while aluminium is chosen for lightweight components where corrosion resistance is also key.

3. Formability and Pressing Suitability

Not all metals are created equal when it comes to pressing. Some materials respond better to deep drawing, bending or intricate shaping.

At Three Way Pressings, we can advise on:

Material thickness and tolerances
Tooling compatibility
Springback characteristics

We help you avoid cracking, warping, or stress issues before production begins.

4. Cost and Availability

Material costs can vary significantly depending on the type and grade of metal, market conditions, and order volume. We work closely with trusted UK and international suppliers to ensure competitive pricing without compromising on quality or lead times.

5. Environmental and Industry Standards

Your material choice may need to comply with specific standards or certifications, especially in industries like:

Automotive (e.g. TS16949)
Electrical (e.g. RoHS compliance)
Medical (e.g. ISO 13485)

We’ll guide you through material options that meet your sector’s regulatory and environmental requirements.

Common Materials We Work With

At Three Way Pressings, we specialise in working with a wide range of metals including:

Mild steel – versatile, cost-effective, great for general applications
Stainless steel – ideal for corrosion resistance and strength
Aluminium – lightweight, corrosion-resistant, excellent for electrical components
Brass – commonly used in electrical contacts and decorative parts
Copper – known for its electrical conductivity and malleability
Special alloys – for high-performance or niche applications

Expert Support Every Step of the Way

We understand that selecting the right metal can feel daunting – but that’s where we come in. With decades of experience and a hands-on approach, we provide:

Material selection advice
Design for manufacture (DfM) input
Prototype and sampling services
Low to high-volume production

Whatever stage you’re at, we’ll make sure your pressing project starts with the right material for long-term success.

Let’s Talk About Your Project

Not sure which metal is best for your component? Speak to our team at Three Way Pressings for expert, no-obligation advice. We’re proud to be a trusted UK manufacturer, combining traditional values with modern engineering.