The details matter.
Before we cut.

Dimensions, tolerances and fit

A nominal dimension is the size in your drawing. A tolerance describes the permitted variation in the finished part. The minimum hole size in the design guide is a cutting limit; it does not define a dimensional tolerance or the right clearance for your assembly.

If a hole locates a bearing or pin, a pair of parts must fit tightly, or a dimension is critical, send the drawing and the required tolerance before ordering. Our usual cutting tolerance is ±0.2 mm. Variation can be greater on larger parts or complex geometry, so confirm what can be achieved for the material, thickness and finish you need before ordering a critical fit.

Cut edges and micro-joints

Laser cutting creates the outside profile and internal cut-outs in the sheet. Edge appearance can vary with material, thickness and geometry. Temporary manufacturing micro-joints may hold a part in the sheet; a small mark can remain after the part is removed.

Deburring is included with metal parts. Acrylic is CO₂ laser cut and does not need deburring. If you need a radius, additional edge preparation or a specific edge condition, agree it with us before ordering.

Sheet faces and visible surfaces

The sheet face and cut edge are different surfaces. Raw material may have surface variation or handling marks that matter on decorative or exposed parts. A material illustration is a guide to the material, rather than an approval sample for your exact order.

• Identify any cosmetic face in your enquiry.
• Specify a grade, brushed direction, polish or protective film if it matters.
• Ask about preparation if you plan to paint, weld or bond the part.

Our material pages explain the choices; confirm special appearance requirements before paying.

Allow for the finish

Powder coating adds a layer over the metal. Close-fitting holes, sliding surfaces, threads and assembly faces may need allowance or masking. A drawing that fits as bare metal may need a different approach once coated.

Tell us which dimensions must still work after finishing. Read the powder coating guide and check any masking requirement before ordering.

What your file asks us to make

A flat cutting drawing describes a profile and its cut-outs. Suitable sheet-metal STEP/STP models are prepared as flat patterns before quoting. We do not offer bending. Metal parts are supplied flat and deburred, even when the source model shows a folded shape.

Plan any bending separately. Check any tapping, countersinking, welding or assembly requirement with us. Include the operation, dimensions and finish you need; only rely on services that are explicitly included in your agreed order.

Before approving your order

1. Check the complete outline and every internal cut-out in the preview.
2. Confirm material, thickness, quantity and selected finish.
3. Resolve file warnings and review any repaired geometry.
4. Send special tolerances, visible-face requirements and extra operations before paying.
5. Keep the agreed specification with your order details.

If your part needs a closer look

If something in your delivered order does not match the agreed file or specification, contact us with your order number, a description and photographs. Include measurements where they help explain the issue. We can review those details against the order.

See delivery and returns for transit issues, or before you order for help checking the specification.