Sheet Metal RFQ Checklist: Flat Pattern, Bends, Hardware and Finish
Prepare a sheet metal RFQ with the formed drawing, flat pattern, material, bend details, hardware, finish and assembly requirements.
Zaid ArshadManufacturing Content Author · KEC Tour
What to specify for this part
| Control point | Define in the RFQ | Risk if omitted |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Formed STEP plus drawing; DXF only by agreement | Flat pattern uses the wrong bend rule |
| Material | Grade, temper/coating and actual thickness | Bend response and finish differ |
| Features | Bends, hems, inserts, welds and critical datums | Secondary operations are omitted |
| Appearance | A/B surfaces, grain direction and color sample | Cosmetic expectations appear after production |
Control the formed part
Unless the buyer owns the exact bend data, the formed geometry and critical dimensions should control. Let the fabricator produce the flat pattern from validated tooling data, then approve any deviation. A formed bracket can be correct even when its developed blank differs from an early customer DXF. Identify whether the formed dimensions or the supplied flat is controlling before quotation. If both must be maintained, investigate the conflict through a bend trial rather than changing either silently.
Mark critical bend relationships
Identify flange lengths, hole-to-bend relationships, angles and mounting datums tied to assembly. Avoid applying the same tight tolerance to every nonfunctional edge. For a mounting hole near a bend, review the actual punch, die and forming method. Distortion can affect the hole even if its flat-pattern position is correct. Consider moving the hole or finishing it after bending where the assembly permits and the extra operation is justified.
Specify installed hardware
List fastener manufacturer/part number or performance requirement, installation side, protrusion and torque/push-out criteria when applicable. Include weld symbols and finishing sequence. Self-clinching hardware needs a suitable sheet hardness, thickness, hole size and installation force. Use the selected fastener manufacturer's requirements rather than treating all inserts as equivalent. Check the installed side and clearance to adjacent bends before committing the flat layout.
Package the commercial requirements
State prototype and production quantities, tooling expectation, packing protection, destination and desired first-article evidence so the quote covers the complete route. Include hardware installation, deburring, weld cleanup and finish inspection in the quote. A low flat-blank price does not represent an assembled enclosure. Request a production-intent sample with the installed fasteners so the buyer can check access and fit.
Frequently asked questions
Should I send a DXF or STEP file?
Send the formed STEP model and drawing. Supply a DXF only when its revision and bend assumptions are controlled with the supplier.
Who should calculate the flat pattern?
The fabricator is usually best placed to use its actual tools and bend data, while the buyer controls final formed geometry.
How should cosmetic surfaces be marked?
Use a drawing map or annotated image that defines visible zones, grain direction and acceptable defects.
What increases sheet-metal quote time?
Missing thickness, unclear revision, undefined finish, ambiguous hardware and no quantity or destination.
Sources and further reading
Send KEC Tour the relevant drawing and interface requirements for review of the proposed manufacturing route.
Zaid Arshad
Manufacturing Content Author · KEC TourZaid Arshad writes practical manufacturing guides for engineers and sourcing teams evaluating custom fittings, CNC-turned parts, sheet-metal components, stampings and die-cast parts. His articles focus on clearer RFQs, supplier evidence, inspection planning and drawing-to-production decisions.
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Share your CAD file, material, critical dimensions, finish and target volume. KEC Tour will review the process route before quoting.