What is DFM?
Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is the process of optimizing your part design so it’s easier to produce, costs less, and maintains high quality.
At Laser Tuan Thinh, we offer free DFM consultation with every order.
10 Essential DFM Tips
1. Minimum Bend Radius
Inner bend radius should be ≥ material thickness. Example: 2mm sheet → bend radius ≥ 2mm.
2. Hole-to-Bend Distance
Holes should be ≥ 2x material thickness + bend radius from any bend line. Otherwise, the hole will deform during bending.
3. Minimum Tab Width
Tabs should be ≥ 2x material thickness, minimum 3mm.
4. Minimum Hole Size
Hole diameter should be ≥ material thickness, minimum 1mm for laser cutting.
5. Hole-to-Hole Spacing
Center-to-center distance between holes should be ≥ 2x material thickness.
6. Avoid Sharp Internal Corners
Replace 90° sharp corners with radius R0.5mm or larger. Reduces stress concentration and improves cutting quality.
7. Mark Bend Lines
Always mark bend positions on your drawing. Use separate layers for cutting, bending, and marking operations.
8. Grain Direction
Bend perpendicular to the grain direction to prevent cracking, especially with aluminum and hard stainless.
9. Simplify Assembly
Design tab-and-slot features to reduce welding and assembly time.
10. Correct File Format
Provide 2D DXF files with separate layers:
- Layer “CUT” — cutting lines
- Layer “BEND” — bend positions
- Layer “MARK” — engraving/marking
Need DFM Help?
Our engineering team is ready to help optimize your design for free. Contact us now.