Mark what must be measured
Highlight interface holes, formed angles, flatness zones, insert positions and enclosure openings on the drawing.
Quality
Sheet Metal Quality Control & Inspection
Plan first article checks, dimensional inspection, finish review, material traceability and packing checks before production starts.
Quality gates
Evidence buyers can use before repeat production.
Quality content should be process evidence, not a vague certification list.
Define what needs to be checked.
Incoming material and thickness checkFirst article dimensional reviewHole, bend, flatness and insert location checksCoating color, texture, masking and scratch reviewAssembly fit and packing inspectionMaterial certificate or dimensional report when requested
Inspection map
Match inspection scope to part risk.
The quality plan should be proportional: a simple bracket needs different evidence from a cosmetic enclosure or welded assembly.
| Part risk | Inspection focus | Useful evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Flat laser-cut plate | Outside profile, hole size, burrs and material thickness | Photos, basic dimensions and material check. |
| Bent bracket | Angle, flange length, hole-to-bend distance and flatness | First article dimensions and marked critical holes. |
| Enclosure or control panel | Connector cutouts, PEM inserts, cosmetic faces and coating masks | Dimensional report, coating photos and assembly-fit review. |
| Welded assembly | Fixture datum, distortion, weld position and grinding requirement | Fit-up photos, key dimensions and finish confirmation. |
| Supplier rescue part | Known defect translation into measurable checkpoints | Defect photos, inspection checklist and corrected packing plan. |
Documents
Quality documents by risk level.
Do not promise heavy documentation for every low-risk part, but make it available for buyers who need it.
| Need | Typical evidence |
|---|---|
| Prototype fit | Photos, part count, material and basic dimensional checks. |
| Production release | First article checks, critical dimensions and finish confirmation. |
| Material control | Material certificate, thickness check and grade confirmation when requested. |
| Cosmetic finish | Color, texture, masking, scratch review and packing photos. |
| Regulated or high-value project | Material certificate, dimensional report, coating record and packing checklist. |
Release planning
Define acceptance before production starts.
The most useful RFQ tells the reviewer which dimensions, surfaces and documents decide whether parts can ship.
Separate visible from hidden faces
State color, texture, grain direction, masking and packing protection expectations before coating.
Avoid both gaps and overkill
Request first article checks, material certificate or dimensional reports only where the part risk justifies them.