TECHNICAL BLOG

Entering our fourth decade in business, we continue to look at ways to increase our quoting efficiency. For this blog, we’ve outlined the information we need to ensure the fastest turnaround for your estimate and the most accurate pricing for your project, using the right methods to control the cost:

1. Material type. This information – plus any alternatives you may consider – will help determine costs, tooling and production requirements.
2. Outer diameter. The OD is the measurement across the end of a pipe or tube. We have the machine technology to bend ¼-inch up to 6-inch OD. Calling out the wall thickness is also critical; both factors impact what tooling is needed.
3. Degree of bend. This refers to the angle, expressed in degrees, to which the bend is formed (e.g. 45, 90, 180 degrees). Also known as DOB.
4. Tolerances. Industry standard is +/- 1 degree on bend angles. With our electric machines, in most instances we are consistently meeting +/- 0.5 degrees. If needed, tighter tolerances can be achieved.
5. Center line radius. The most common radius in tube bending, this is the radius to the centerline of the pipe or tube to be bent. Generally, the tightest achievable center line radius is one times the pipe or tube’s outer diameter.
6. Estimated annual usage (EAU). Supplying us with the EAU on your project helps us to secure the best raw material cost and ensure the most efficient production method is used. It’s also helpful to know if you will be needing the parts in scheduled releases, as this is also factored into pricing.
7. Parts drawing. We use SolidWorks to assess what will be required for the project. The most common file formats are native SolidWorks, .x_t, .stp or .igs.

Pro tip: Knowing the application or end use for your part may at times inform the manufacturing process or alert us about any certifications needed. The more we know about your project, the better we will be able to assist you.

If you have a project in mind, we’d value the opportunity to discuss it. Feel free to contact us at any time. To request an estimate, visit our RFQ page.

This blog was authored by Patrick Coenen, Project Engineer, Sharpe Products. Patrick can be reached at patrickc@sharpeproducts.com.