Precision Sheet Metal Prototyping is essential in the development of a product as it provides an opportunity to further evaluate designs, with the option of making revisions before making a big capital investment in production. At Tedco, we draw upon our extensive experience in sheet metal to bring your ideas to life.
Prototyping gave TEDCO the foundation to execute the larger projects we do today. When our company was just a father, son, and small metal shop, it was all we did.
Let’s Talk Steps
Preparing Your Digital Model
Before requesting an estimate from TEDCO, you have to create a DFM, or Design for Manufacturability. You have to ensure your design uses standard material thicknesses and consistent bend radii, as well as welding, hardware, or finishing call-outs. Keep in mind to avoid overly complex tolerances or geometries to keep costs low.
Manufacturers require a 3D STEP file, DXFs, and possibly other formats, depending on the software used to read the drawing.
Choose Your Material
It is best to stick to standard common metal materials like Aluminum, Stainless Steel or Cold-Rolled Steel for the fastest turnaround and lowest costs. If this prototype will not make it to final production and will need alterations before signing off on larger quantities, it’s best to use thinner, less expensive materials. Also smart to choose an in-stock selection from vendors to reduce lead times.
Submitting Request for Quote
Now you can email TEDCO directly at JHunt@tedcosheetmetal.com, or submit on our request for quote form on our site to get pricing and lead time before taking the next steps. If there are further questions for our executive programmer, you can arrange a meeting to discuss the project at hand. Our experts will help you agree on materials, hardware needed, or how to save costs by eliminating certain aspects of the prototype. Coming in for a meeting also presents the opportunity to tour the shop or talk about machining needs.
This is also the time to decide on finishing treatments such as powder coating, anodizing, or chem film applied for aesthetics or for corrosion resistance.
Fabrication Process
Once the quote is approved, the purchase order is submitted, and the due date is settled upon, it is time to get this project into fabrication.