Sheet Metal (SOLIDWORKS)
SOLIDWORKS's sheet-metal feature set — base flange, edge flange, bend, unfold, flat pattern, cut list, K-factor.
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Definition
Sheet metal modelling starts from a Base Flange (or Convert to Sheet Metal). Bends are added via Edge Flange, Miter Flange, Sketched Bend, Hem, Jog. The Flat Pattern feature unfolds the part using the configured bend allowance (K-factor or bend table). Drawings display either the folded view or the flat pattern, with cut list properties (length × width × thickness) on the drawing.
Why it matters
For fabricated parts, the SLDPRT must produce a clean, accurate flat pattern with correct bend allowances or the laser cutter and press brake will produce parts that don't fit. Sheet metal discipline is what separates 'CAD model' from 'shop drawing.'
Common pitfalls
- Modelling as a solid then trying to convert — non-uniform thickness produces sheet-metal errors.
- Wrong K-factor for the material/machine — flat pattern is correct for the wrong physics.
- Using lofted bends without checking the resulting flat pattern — can produce non-developable surfaces.
Bends, K-factor, and the flat pattern
Sheet metal parts carry a constant thickness and a bend model so they can unfold to a manufacturable flat. The neutral axis position is set by the K-factor (typically ~0.3–0.5 for steel), which — with thickness and bend radius — determines the bend allowance and bend deduction. Start with Base Flange/Tab or convert a solid with Insert Bends/Convert to Sheet Metal; the Flat-Pattern feature at the tree bottom generates the DXF-ready unfold.
Getting parts that fab correctly
Drive bend behaviour from a shop bend table or gauge table rather than a single K-factor guess, so allowances match the press brake. Add relief cuts and correct corner treatments to avoid tearing, and export the flat pattern to DXF for laser/turret. Model with fabrication tolerances in mind — flanges shorter than a few material thicknesses cannot be bent reliably.
References
Primary and vendor documentation used while writing this page (external links, not republished):
SOLIDWORKS Ecosystem Context
This concept is a core structural element of the SOLIDWORKS drafting and engineering environment developed by Dassault Systèmes. Dassault Systèmes' mainstream parametric MCAD — feature-based modelling, assembly mates, and 2D drawings tightly coupled to the 3D model.
Relevant SOLIDWORKS FAQs
❓ Is SOLIDWORKS available on macOS?
Not natively. SOLIDWORKS is Windows-only. Mac users run it via Parallels, VMware Fusion, or Boot Camp (Intel Macs). On Apple Silicon, virtualisation is limited. The official cross-platform alternative from Dassault is the browser-based xDesign on 3DEXPERIENCE.
❓ What's the difference between SOLIDWORKS Standard, Professional, and Premium?
Standard is the core modelling + drawings package. Professional adds CAD Library, PhotoView 360 rendering, eDrawings Professional, Toolbox, advanced sheet metal. Premium adds Simulation, Routing (electrical/piping), ScanTo3D, Motion. Most production shops use Premium; education usually uses Premium-equivalent.
❓ What is 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS vs. traditional SOLIDWORKS?
Traditional SOLIDWORKS is a desktop product, files saved to disk/network/PDM. 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is the same desktop product but cloud-connected: files saved to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, license tied to a Platform identity, and access to companion cloud apps (3D Sculptor / xDesign, simulation, PLM).
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🎓 Recommended Practice Lessons
Step-by-step practical exercises and certification-aligned paths chosen by our editors to master this concept:
SOLIDWORKS - Tutorial for Beginners in 13 MINUTES!
SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD Specialization (Coursera)
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