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Getting custom sheet metal parts manufactured requires precision and clear communication. Avoiding common pitfalls ensures timely delivery, cost-effectiveness, and parts that meet specifications. Here are four critical mistakes to sidestep:
1. Providing Incomplete or Ambiguous Drawings
Lack of comprehensive drawing details is the primary source of fabrication errors and delays.
- Specify all critical dimensions, tolerances, bend radii, bend allowances, and hole locations clearly.
- Indicate material type, thickness, grain direction requirements, and surface finish expectations upfront.
- Use standard ASME Y14.5 GD&T symbols where applicable. Avoid vague notes; clarity is paramount. Confirming all details with your supplier, such as BaoXuan, prevents misinterpretation.
2. Overlooking Manufacturability (DFM)
Designing parts without considering how they will be manufactured leads to high costs and potential failures.
- Avoid unnecessarily tight tolerances that complicate fabrication and increase price.
- Design bends with sufficient internal radii relative to material thickness to prevent cracking.
- Ensure features like holes, slots, and notches are positioned far enough from bends.
- Simplify geometries where possible. Consult with your fabricator early; expertise like that offered by BaoXuan can optimize your design for production.
3. Neglecting Material Selection and Thickness Implications
Choosing the wrong material or thickness impacts function, cost, and manufacturability.
- Understand the material’s properties (strength, corrosion resistance, conductivity) for its intended application.
- Specify the exact alloy grade and temper condition.
- Recognize that thicker materials require different tooling, higher tonnage, influence bend radii, and increase weight and cost.
4. Ignoring Finishing Requirements or Inadequate Specification
Assuming bare metal is sufficient or poorly defining surface treatments results in subpar parts prone to corrosion or appearance issues.
- State the exact finish required: powder coating type/RAL color, plating spec (e.g., ASTM B633 Type II), anodizing type, or passivation.
- Consider critical surfaces and masking needs.
- Factor in finishing lead times and costs during procurement planning. Ensuring clear finishing instructions is crucial, a practice prioritized by specialists like BaoXuan.
