Design guidelines – thread forming

Design guidelines for sheet metal parts with threads.

Here you'll find important specifications for defining and designing threads in sheet metal parts.

1. Define threads in the sheet metal portal

The Blexon algorithm automatically detects possible threads in the CAD model based on simple holes. Adjust the detected threads with a single click. The video below shows you how.

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2. Core hole diameter for automatic detection

The only prerequisite for automatic thread detection is a hole with a suitable core hole diameter. The following table shows which core hole diameter you should design in the CAD model so that the corresponding thread is detected automatically.

  • Thread size
  • M2
  • M2.5
  • M3
  • M4
  • M5
  • M6
  • M8
  • M10
  • M12
  • Core hole diameter [mm]
  • 1.80
  • 2.30
  • 2.80
  • 3.70
  • 4.60
  • 5.50
  • 7.50
  • 9.30
  • 10.2

3. Non-standard threads

If you have designed different core hole diameters, you can still order your sheet metal part with threads. To do so, observe the „smallest diameter by material“ values in the table below.

  1. After uploading to Blexon, open the item in the browser CAD.
  2. Select the core holes. Use the helper function, to select all identical core holes.
  3. Select „thread forming“ and the desired thread size.
  4. Blexon automatically adjusts the core hole diameters and you can add the item to the cart and order it.

4. Possible thread sizes by material

The available thread sizes depend on the sheet thickness and the material used. Please refer to the following table to see which thread sizes are possible in the respective materials.

More design guidelines.

You'll find further technical notes on the design and machining of sheet metal parts in our overview. For questions about threads or core hole diameters, our helpdesk is happy to help.

View all design guidelines →

Available materials and dimensions →

Contact the helpdesk for free →

Sheet metal part with threads fully designed?

Upload your CAD model. Blexon automatically detects possible threads and checks for free whether the sheet metal part can be manufactured.

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