It takes a few moments of setup before your digital files are ready to be sent off to the fabricator to be cut and bent. Much of this work can be done to prevent costly changes and delays down the line.
Choose the Right File Format
DXF or DWG files are typically used for 2D cutting of individual parts. For 3D assemblies, STEP (.step) or IGES (.iges) files are usually the best option for fabricating your components from sheet metal.
Set Your Bend Allowance and K-Factor
For all parts that contain bends, ensure that the K-factor has been set for the chosen material and thickness before beginning to model the part. This parameter affects all of the bend lines in the part, so if it is set incorrectly, all of the bends will be offset by the same amount, resulting in parts that are incorrectly sized when folded.
Export a Flat Pattern
For production of the folded part, a flat-pattern view of the part (in addition to the 3D model) must be supplied to the fabricator, which he then programs into his cutting machine taking into account the previously specified bend allowances.
Annotate Grain Direction and Thickness
Mark the grain direction and the nominal thickness on the drawing. This is information which the fabricator needs to produce your components with the correct bend and surface finish. Annotations should follow the standard drawing conventions for fabrication.
Run a DFM Check
Before you send your designs off to be made, do a design-for-manufacture check to ensure your design is suitable for production. If you want Sheet Metal Fabrication, //dkmsheetmetal.co.uk/ is a good place to start.
These simple steps before submitting your CAD data can save a lot of time and even save you from having to rework finished parts.
