Question 1

Why might the design for my precision sheet metal part not be manufacturable at many metal fabrication shops?

Accepted Answer

Most metal fabrication shops rely on standard press brake tooling to fabricate formed sheet metal parts efficiently. If your design requires non-standard tooling, shops may not be able to manufacture it and may decline to quote the part.

Question 2

What kind of standard press brake tooling is available for forming sheet metal parts?

Accepted Answer

The standard press brake tooling available at Approved Sheet Metal includes options such as 90-degree bending for different gauge ranges, thin tip punches, narrow punches, gooseneck punches, and sash bending. Custom offset tooling and hem tooling are also available for specific requirements.

Question 3

What options are available for projects that require non-standard press brake tooling?

Accepted Answer

When faced with a project that cannot be made using standard press brake tooling, there are three pathways forward at Approved Sheet Metal:

Custom tooling, although it adds cost and time to the project and is typically suggested as a last resort.
Cut and weld, where the sheet metal parts are cut and welded together using various techniques like MIG, TIG, or spot welding.
Updating the design to make it compatible with standard tooling, which is often the most efficient solution and can save time and money.

Question 4

Can Approved Sheet Metal help me update my design to make it manufacturable with standard tooling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Approved Sheet Metal is happy to collaborate with customers to improve their designs. They have experience in updating designs to make them compatible with standard tooling, even if it requires sacrificing certain aesthetic preferences. Minor changes in the design can save time and money in the fabrication process.

Question 5

How can I get assistance from Approved Sheet Metal for my precision sheet metal parts?

Accepted Answer

You can request a quote from Approved Sheet Metal for your precision sheet metal parts. Their team of sheet metal fabrication experts is always available to help you. Whether you need custom tooling, cutting and welding, or assistance in updating your design, their goal is to efficiently move your part through the shop while maintaining your design intent.

When Standard Press Brake Tooling Can’t Get the Job Done (Updated for 2025)

Deep Forming Considerations for Sheet Metal Fabrication (Updated for 2025)

How to Create Sheet Metal Offset Bends Without Custom Tooling (Updated for 2025)

How to Get Perfectly Formed Sheet Metal Parts Every Time (Updated for 2025)

The Best Metal Bending Solution for Sheet Metal Prototyping (Updated for 2025)