Want to Cut Lead Times in Half for Sheet Metal Prototypes? Provide a 3D CAD File (Updated for 2023)

Last updated on December 1st, 2023 at 01:13 pm

Did you know that 3D CAD technology can cut lead times on sheet metal prototypes by up to 50%?

As a sheet metal shop committed to continuously improving the customer experience, Approved Sheet Metal is always looking for ways to deliver parts faster than ever. One way we do that is by passing valuable information on to our customers.

Here’s something you may not know: We’ve found that receiving a CAD file at the time of an RFQ allows us to turn around formed sheet metal prototypes in just 3 days.

4 Ways 3D CAD Files Accelerate Lead Times for Sheet Metal Prototypes

Here’s a look at why CAD files are such huge time-savers at our sheet metal shop:

1. Provides full visibility into a part.

Although 2D drawings are critical for identifying accurate tolerances and other dimensional specifications, a 3D CAD model enables us to see every angle of your part. The ability to zoom in on the minute details simply isn’t possible with a drawing!

2. Simplifies complicated parts and assemblies.

3D CAD models allow us to obtain projected views for complicated assemblies or hardware installations, which simplifies these processes significantly. We can visualize precisely how components will fit into each other, making it much easier to spot potential misalignments or areas that need adjustment.

3. Resolves design ambiguities.

We love collaborating with customers. But when you’re in a pinch, back and forth calls and emails can slow down your lead time. When we have a 3D CAD model, we can easily resolve design ambiguities and even take our own dimensions if certain specs aren’t included in the print.

4. Integrates into automated software.

At Approved Sheet Metal, we’re always up to date on the newest and most innovative technology. We use 3D CADfiles to program our cutting-edge equipment like our laser cutter and press brake:

• Laser cutter. Our high-powered fiber laser runs on G-code, which is almost impossible to program by hand. Leveraging SOLIDWORKS integration, the G-code uses the data from a 3D CAD model to create a laser cut path. The alternative to this process would be drawing the laser cut path ourselves, which is not only incredibly inefficient, but also introduces the unnecessary risk of human error.
• Press brake. We use offline programming to virtually fabricate sheet metal prototypes and identify potential errors. 3D CAD integration helps us simulate a part to look for crashes, holes, deep boxes, and other issues. This fully digitized system prevents us from having to manually enter information, which saves time, minimizes the risk of human error, and optimizes the bending sequence to reduce the number of setups.

If you don’t provide a CAD file with your RFQ, we’ll convert your 2D drawings for you and take the time to verify a perfect match. But any time you can give us this information up front, we’ll happily guarantee a faster turnaround. Request a quote today and enjoy the benefits of working with a forward-thinking sheet metal shop!