A sheet metal CAD design service provides specialized deliverables—STEP, DXF flat pattern, drawing (optional)—created by vetted designers. The best providers clarify requirements upfront, deliver files that suppliers can use, include revisions, and protect your IP with clear ownership.
What is sheet metal CAD design?
Sheet metal CAD design is a deliverable-focused service: you’re hiring for fabrication-ready outputs, not a generic model. The goal is geometry and drawings a shop can cut, bend, and quote—correct thickness, bend relief, flat patterns, and the formats your workflow requires.
When should you use sheet metal CAD design?
Fabrication-ready parts
Get bend-ready geometry and correct thickness.
Flat patterns
Export DXF patterns for laser/waterjet cutting.
Enclosures & brackets
Design common sheet metal components quickly.
Revision for manufacturability
Adjust bends, reliefs, and fastener features.
Vendor quoting
Provide STEP/DXF files shops can quote immediately.
Prototype builds
Iterate fast before committing to production.
What to look for in a sheet metal CAD design provider
Output formats
Confirm exactly what files you’ll receive (STEP, DXF flat pattern, drawing (optional)).
Production readiness
Ask whether deliverables are suitable for quoting/manufacturing—not just visuals.
Revision policy
Confirm included rounds and scope change rules.
IP ownership + NDA
Make sure you own the work and confidentiality is covered.
Quality checks
For drawings: dimensions/tolerances. For models: clean bend geometry, K-factor assumptions, and correct interfaces.
DIY vs local fab vs managed CAD service
| Option | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY in CAD | Full control | Requires sheet metal know-how | Experienced designers |
| Local fab shop | Integrated build | Limited design support | Simple fabrication |
| Managed CAD service | Vetted designers | Needs clear requirements | Fast, fabrication-ready files |
How to write a brief for this deliverable
Include what it is, material and thickness, bend radius / K-factor if known, critical dimensions, interfaces, hardware, and exact outputs (STEP, DXF flat, PDF drawings). Attach sketches, references, or legacy files.
How Marathon OS CAD Services works
Describe your project
Submit your brief, upload references, and specify required formats and deadline.
Get matched with a vetted designer
We assign a pre-qualified designer experienced in your tool and project type.
Receive production-ready files
You receive native CAD + export formats. Revisions are included.
What projects can Marathon OS handle?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide flat patterns?
Yes—DXF flat patterns can be included.
Can you design enclosures?
Yes—enclosures, brackets, panels, and mounts.
Do you account for thickness/bends?
Yes—provide material specs and bend requirements if you have them.
What do I need to provide?
Dimensions, mounting interfaces, and fabrication constraints.
Can you revise existing parts?
Yes—send existing files and desired changes.
Who owns the files?
You do—deliverables belong to you; NDA included.
