SOLIDWORKS Sheet Metal: A Beginner's Guide

Introduction

• SOLIDWORKS 3D provides efficient tools for creating sheet metal designs.
• Focus on saving time and reducing development costs.
• The flange method is highlighted for creating sheet metal parts.

Setting Up the Environment

• Enable Sheet Metal Tab
  • Right-click any tab in the CommandManager.
  • Select 'Sheet Metal' from the drop-down menu.

Creating a Sheet Metal Part

• Base Flange/Tab Tool

  • Activate Sheet Metal tab.
  • Use 'Base Flange/Tab' tool to begin a part.
  • Requires selecting a plane and creating a sketch.

• Sketch Creation

  • Create a simple, open sketch for the sheet metal part.

Property Manager Overview

• Direction 1

  • Similar to a basic extrude feature.
  • Select an end condition and set a dimension.

• Sheet Metal Gauges

  • Option to use a gauge table to control thickness.
  • Gauge tables store values for thickness and bend radius.
  • Default gauge table location: C:Program FilesSOLIDWORKS CorpSOLIDWORKSlangenglishSheet Metal Gauge Tables
  • If no table, manually enter material thickness and bend radius.

• Bend Allowance

  • Choose how SOLIDWORKS calculates the neutral axis for flat pattern.
  • Options include K-Factor, Bend Allowance, Bend Deduction, Bend Table, or Bend Calculation.
  • Can use Excel for Bend Table or Bend Calculation.

• Relief Type

  • Automatically added when a bend requires it.

Finalizing the Part

• Once all options are set, confirming selections results in a sheet metal part.
• Access additional sheet metal tools on the CommandManager.

Additional Resources

• For more information, refer to related articles such as "Top 7 FAQs About SOLIDWORKS Sheet Metal."
• Contact Hawk Ridge Systems for further assistance.