Metal Stamping Resource
How to Specify Sheet Metal Stamping Tolerances and Quality Requirements
A practical drawing and inspection checklist for sourcing repeatable stamped parts.
What Should Be Included in a Stamping Drawing?
Material
Grade, thickness, temper, coating, grain direction, and approved substitutes.
Geometry
Datums, hole position, bend angle, flatness, profile, and critical edge conditions.
Quality
Sampling plan, first article report, burr limits, cosmetic zones, packaging, and traceability.
Five Tolerance Areas to Clarify
Material thickness and condition
Material thickness affects forming, springback, tooling clearance, and strength. State the standard and allowable range used for acceptance.
Hole size and positional accuracy
Relate hole position to functional datums. If a hole is used for assembly, define the mating condition and gauge method.
Bend angle and springback
Specify measurement direction, inside radius, and functional angle. Material temper and grain direction can change springback.
Flatness, profile, and burrs
Define the inspection surface and fixture condition. Also state maximum burr height, edge break, and deburring expectations.
Quality Control and First Article Approval
Align tool tryout, first article inspection, capability checks, and production sampling with application risk. Daremotion can support pre-production testing, dimensional inspection, and post-production quality checks. Read more about when metal stamping is suitable for production parts.
FAQ
What is a typical metal stamping tolerance?
It depends on material, thickness, geometry, tooling, and measurement method. Use supplier capability data and critical-feature tolerances rather than one blanket number.
Should I specify 100% inspection?
Only when feature risk justifies it. A capability study and controlled sampling plan can be more efficient for stable production.
Review Your Stamped Part Specification
Send the drawing, material, annual volume, critical dimensions, and inspection requirements for a manufacturability review.