Flat pattern
Unfold the 3D design into a flat blank.
Manufacturing services · Chapter D · Method 19
Sheet metal fabrication
Flat sheet is cut, formed and joined into brackets, enclosures and frames. Fast and economical from one-offs to medium batches.
How it works
Sheet metal fabrication, step by step.
A labelled schematic of the process (not to scale), and the four steps every job goes through.
Cut
Laser, punch or shear the blank.
Form
Bend on a press brake; add hardware.
Join & finish
Weld or rivet, then powder coat or plate.
Reference figures
What to expect.
Typical industry values to help you plan. We agree the figures for your part on the drawing.
Edge To Bend±0.38 mmStandard
Across Bend±0.76 mmStandard
Bend Angle±1°Standard
Same Surface±0.25 mmCut features
| Materials | Mild steel, stainless (304, 316), aluminium (5052, 6082), galvanised steel, copper and brass. |
|---|---|
| Finishes | Deburred as standard; powder coated, painted, anodised, zinc plated or brushed. |
| Design guidance |
|
| Best suited to | Enclosures, brackets, chassis, guards and stainless frames for mould trays. |
| Watch-outs | Tolerances stack across several bends; hems and curls need special tooling. |
More in chapter D
Other methods in Sheet & tube
- 20 · Laser cutting
- 21 · Waterjet cutting
- 22 · Plasma cutting
- 23 · Sheet metal bending
- 24 · Punching
- 25 · Laser tube cutting
- 26 · Tube bending
Next step
Not sure this is the right route?
Send a sketch, photo, sample or CAD file with your quantity and target date. We will recommend the most sensible route and explain the trade-offs before quoting.
Reference figures are typical published industry values for planning, not a guarantee; final tolerances, materials and finishes are agreed in writing for each project.