The shape of your part is one of the most fundamental factors in determining compatible manufacturing processes. Different processes have varying capabilities for creating certain geometries:

Flat Geometries

Flat parts are typically manufactured using processes like stamping, laser cutting, waterjet cutting, and sheet metal forming. These processes excel at creating 2D or 2.5D geometries from sheet stock.

Example of flat geometry suitable for sheet metal processes

Thin-walled Geometries

Thin-walled parts with consistent wall thickness are well-suited for processes like injection molding, thermoforming, and die casting. The complexity of the thin-walled geometry affects process selection.

Complex thin-walled part with intricate internal features

Simple cubic thin-walled geometry

Cylindrical thin-walled part ideal for molding processes

Solid Geometries

Solid parts with substantial mass are typically created using casting, forging, machining, or additive manufacturing. The internal and external complexity dictates which processes are most suitable.

Complex solid part with internal features requiring advanced manufacturing

Simple cubic solid geometry suitable for machining or casting