Proto Tech Tip - 5 Common Sheet Metal Design Mistakes to Avoid

Every week, Team Protocase is bringing you a Proto Tech Tip video, where we'll give an informative look at a particular aspect of sheet metal fabrication and CNC Machining.
In this week's video, Chris is back to tell you about the 5 most common sheet metal design mistakes that you should avoid.
This obviously isn’t a full, comprehensive list of common mistakes we see but keeping these 5 in mind will greatly improve your chances of getting that very quick turnaround that we are known for.
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[@andrewneehall5664]

Great tip regarding using a notch to allow placement of cutouts close to a bend! I'm an engineer and design mainly machined components but occasionally work with sheet metal parts, and I will definitely be using this tip in future designs!

[@ProtocaseInc]

You're very welcome! Notching can be really useful in certain scenarios. If you're looking for a few more resources, these may be helpful: Proto Tech Tip all about notching: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKLGYY2ohr18a5o&t= Blog post about notching: www.protocase.com/blog/2017/05/02/what-to-do-when-cutouts-and-other-components-need-to-be-placed-close-to-a-bend/ Happy designing :)

[@andrewneehall5664]

@@ProtocaseInc awesome, thank you!!!

[@nickdavis4839]

Great information! Thanks

[@ProtocaseInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@guessagainkk6322]

6 - Design to final formed component "dimensions" and tolerances (including any surface finishes), not flat pattern dimensions. 7 - Ask. Considerations: 1 - Specific bend angles are not easy to control when all "K-factors" require some level of "over-bending" compensation, depending length of the piece, tool hardness, bends angles, gauge thickness and etc. 2 - Whether to form the inner or outer bend first and whether to Form single, double or even triple bends at the same time (Progression tool) 3 - Score line help sharper bend radius, but ASK them first.

[@ProtocaseInc]

Thanks for the feedback!