DFM Review — Before You Spend Money on Tooling
Send the drawing to request a manufacturability review: tolerance feasibility, cost drivers and possible changes before tooling is commissioned. Scope and timing are confirmed for the project.
What the DFM report covers
- Tolerance feasibility — which tolerances you actually need, and which are costing you money for nothing
- Material alternatives, including GB ↔ DIN ↔ AISI equivalents
- Process alternatives — machining vs casting vs forging for the same part
- Cost drivers, ranked, with the saving attached to each
- Risk flags: distortion, thin walls, inaccessible features, weld access
Example: compare manufacturing routes
For a housing designed for 5-axis machining from solid, compare the geometry and loading requirements with alternative routes.
A split body with welding and finish machining may be worth evaluating. Any change needs engineering review and validation against the original requirements.
Compare unit cost, tooling cost, inspection requirements and lead time in the project quotation.
Illustrative engineering guidance; no completed-project savings are claimed.
What tolerances really cost
| Tolerance | Relative cost | When it is worth it |
|---|---|---|
| ±0.1 mm | Assess for the drawing | Non-mating surfaces, covers, guards |
| ±0.05 mm | Assess for the drawing | General fits, bolt patterns |
| ±0.01 mm | Assess for the drawing | Bearing seats, seal surfaces |
| ±0.005 mm | Assess for the drawing | Only where function truly requires it |
Drawing formats accepted
STEP, IGES, DWG, DXF, PDF, SolidWorks, CATIA, Inventor. A sketch with dimensions is enough for an initial budget quote.
Reverse engineering
No drawing? Send a sample. We measure it, produce a drawing for your approval, and quote from there.
Engineering contact
Include technical questions with your enquiry. The engineering review and responsible contact are confirmed for your project.
Ready to get a quote?
Send us your drawing, quantity, material and target lead time. We will review the requirements and confirm the quotation scope and schedule for your project.