How to Use Edge Flange in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide
In SolidWorks, use the
Edge Flange feature to add a flange along the edge of a sheet metal part by selecting the edge and setting flange parameters like length and angle. This tool helps create bends and flanges easily for sheet metal designs.Syntax
The Edge Flange feature in SolidWorks requires selecting an edge of a sheet metal face and specifying parameters:
- Edge: The edge where the flange will be created.
- Flange Length: How far the flange extends from the edge.
- Flange Angle: The angle between the flange and the base face.
- Bend Radius: The radius of the bend connecting flange and base.
- Position: Defines flange placement relative to the edge (outside, inside, or offset).
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Edge Flange(edge, flange_length, flange_angle, bend_radius, position)
Example
This example shows how to create an edge flange on a rectangular sheet metal part's edge with a 50 mm flange length and 90° angle.
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1. Open your sheet metal part in SolidWorks. 2. Select the <strong>Edge Flange</strong> tool from the Sheet Metal toolbar. 3. Click on the edge where you want the flange. 4. Set <code>Flange Length</code> to 50 mm. 5. Set <code>Flange Angle</code> to 90 degrees. 6. Adjust <code>Bend Radius</code> if needed (default is usually fine). 7. Choose flange <code>Position</code> (e.g., Outside). 8. Click OK to create the flange.
Output
A new flange appears along the selected edge, extending 50 mm at a 90° angle from the base sheet metal face.
Common Pitfalls
- Not selecting a valid sheet metal edge will disable the Edge Flange tool.
- Setting flange length too long can cause geometry errors or overlaps.
- Incorrect flange angle may cause interference with other parts.
- Ignoring bend radius can lead to unrealistic bends or manufacturing issues.
- Forgetting to set flange position can place the flange inside the base unintentionally.
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/* Wrong way: Selecting a non-sheet metal edge disables flange */ // Solution: Ensure the base part is sheet metal and select a valid edge. /* Wrong way: Flange length too large */ Edge Flange(edge, 5000, 90, 5, 'Outside') // May cause errors /* Right way: Use reasonable flange length */ Edge Flange(edge, 50, 90, 5, 'Outside')
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Description | Typical Values |
|---|---|---|
| Edge | Select edge for flange | Any sheet metal edge |
| Flange Length | Length of flange from edge | 10 mm to 100 mm |
| Flange Angle | Angle between flange and base | 0° to 180° |
| Bend Radius | Radius of bend curve | Default or 1-5 mm |
| Position | Flange placement relative to edge | Outside, Inside, Offset |
Key Takeaways
Use the Edge Flange tool by selecting a sheet metal edge and setting flange length and angle.
Always check bend radius and flange position to avoid design errors.
Keep flange length reasonable to prevent geometry conflicts.
Edge Flange only works on sheet metal parts with valid edges.
Adjust flange parameters to fit your manufacturing needs.