Dimension the finished shape
Identify internal or external dimensions consistently and show the required angle. Include material thickness, visible faces and important interfaces. If a flat development is supplied, label whether it is mandatory or provided for reference pending fabricator review.
Let the process be reviewed
Ask the fabricator to assess radius, tooling access and the effect of the selected material and finish. Do not prescribe a universal bend radius from an unrelated example. Tight corners, narrow returns and neighbouring cutouts should be discussed before production release.
Approve a first article where needed
For a repeated profile, review one representative component against the drawing and adjoining material. Check the visible surface after forming as well as the dimensions. Record the accepted revision so the production order does not use an earlier detail.
| Decision | Put this in writing |
|---|---|
| Geometry | Show angle, dimensions and dimension convention. |
| Surface | Mark visible faces and grain direction. |
| Release | Approve the drawing and representative component. |
Put the detail to work.
A U-profile must fit around an existing substrate. Mark which internal dimension controls the fit and provide the substrate information. Ask the fabricator to review the proposed thickness and bend geometry before developing the blank. A profile made to an external dimension alone may not answer the fitting requirement. Approve a representative part against the mating detail before releasing a repeated production quantity.
Before you enquire
- Flag fit-critical dimensions.
- Identify holes near bends.
- Confirm whether the flat pattern is controlling.
About this procurement note
The checklists and buying example are original SSSTEEL editorial guidance. Project drawings, supplier documentation and the agreed order govern the actual supply. External references are not product endorsements or proof of SSSTEEL certification.