Issues to Consider on Your Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication Project

Those in the market for sheet metal products have countless off-the-shelf options at hand.  But to stay competitive in the marketplace and still turn a profit, manufacturers must usually churn out high number of these stock units (like stamped louvers and industrial dampers) in generic dimensions and sizes, leaving engineers with few alternatives for unique situations.  Designers often quickly discover that modifying one of these stock products to fit their application is either highly expensive or simply not a viable option.  

In response to these challenges, custom sheet metal fabrication may be the best route for the product you need.   However, many individuals are understandably concerned about getting a quality product and keeping costs under control.  Here are a few things to consider when working with a precision sheet metal fabricator.  

1. Plan ahead to allow for fabrication lead time.  Regardless of how quickly your enclosure manufacturer can respond to your custom requirements, there will be a lead time involved.  In addition to the time it takes to create the submittal drawing and your approval time, material must be requisitioned, the production print package must be generated and the enclosure must be fabricated and assembled.  Keep in mind that your manufacturer is sure to have other jobs in process while working with you.
2. Does your fabricator have prior designs available for use?  Many custom fabricators have collected a library of designs used on past projects, which might give you an idea of the fabricator’s breadth of experience: the more designs they have, the more experienced and flexible they are.  In addition, they could have a design on hand that can help address your needs, which may help bring the design costs down.  
3. Request a detailed submittal drawing from your manufacturer.  Once you and your manufacturer have verbally determined the exact configuration of your product, ask them to provide a submittal drawing that details dimensions, specifications and features.  This ensures that you and your vendor are both on the same page, which can both avoid disagreements down the road and help prevent redoing work.  
4. Consider the type of material you need.  Some projects may have rigid material requirements for a given project.  However, quoting material costs for stainless steel, carbon steel or aluminum can be tricky due to significant price fluctuations.  At any given time, one material or another may offer a more cost-effective option without sacrificing performance or quality.  

These are just a few of the matters to consider when seeking custom sheet metal fabrication services.  There may be other factors at work depending on your particular circumstances.  Work effectively with your sheet metal fabrication company, and you should have no problem acquiring a quality product that meets your needs.