Chamfer feature on edges in Solidworks - Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The Chamfer feature in SolidWorks helps you create a beveled edge on the corners of your 3D model. This makes edges smoother and safer, which is useful for both design and manufacturing.

When you want to remove sharp edges on a metal part to prevent injury during handling.

When you need to prepare edges for welding or assembly by creating angled surfaces.

When your design requires a decorative angled edge instead of a sharp corner.

When you want to reduce stress concentration on edges to improve durability.

When you need to meet manufacturing standards that specify chamfered edges.

Steps

Step 1: Open your 3D model

- SolidWorks main window

Your part is displayed ready for editing

Step 2: Click

- Features tab > Chamfer button

Chamfer PropertyManager opens on the left side

Step 3: Select edges

- Graphics area

Selected edges highlight in orange

Step 4: Choose chamfer type

- Chamfer PropertyManager > Chamfer Type dropdown

Chamfer options update to match your selection

💡 Common types are Angle-Distance and Distance-Distance

Step 5: Enter chamfer dimensions

- Chamfer PropertyManager input fields

Preview of chamfer appears on selected edges

Step 6: Click OK

- Chamfer PropertyManager

Chamfer is applied and visible on the model edges

Before vs After

Before

Edges of the 3D model are sharp and square with no bevel

After

Selected edges have angled beveled surfaces with specified dimensions

Settings Reference

Chamfer Type

📍 Chamfer PropertyManager > Chamfer Type dropdown

Defines how the chamfer dimensions are specified

Default: Angle-Distance

Distance 1

📍 Chamfer PropertyManager input field

Sets the length of the chamfer on the first edge

Default: 0.01 (default value varies)

Angle

📍 Chamfer PropertyManager input field (for Angle-Distance type)

Sets the angle of the chamfer relative to the edge

Default: 45 degrees

Distance 2

📍 Chamfer PropertyManager input field (for Distance-Distance type)

Sets the length of the chamfer on the second edge

Default: 0.01 (default value varies)

Common Mistakes

Selecting faces instead of edges for chamfer

Chamfer feature only works on edges, not faces

Always select edges in the graphics area before applying chamfer

Entering zero or negative values for chamfer distances

Chamfer distances must be positive numbers to create a valid bevel

Use positive numbers greater than zero for all distance inputs

Applying chamfer on edges that are too short for the specified dimensions

Chamfer preview may fail or create errors if dimensions exceed edge length

Check edge length and adjust chamfer distances accordingly

Summary

Chamfer feature creates angled bevels on edges to improve safety and design.

You select edges and specify chamfer type and dimensions in the PropertyManager.

Ensure to select edges only and use positive values within edge length limits.