Start where your question is
If you are sizing a part, use the calculators. If you are writing an enquiry, use the RFQ checklist. If you are choosing a material, start with the grades pages. If a part is already failing or tearing, go to the defects guide. Each of them is a working document, not a brochure.
Calculators
- Deep draw force and draw ratio calculator – blank diameter, punch diameter, sheet thickness and tensile strength in; draw force, draw ratio and press tonnage out.
- Bend allowance and bend deduction for sheet metal.
- Springback calculator
- Material weight calculator
- Stamping force calculator
- Tube unfold calculator
Guides and checklists
- Checklists hub – RFQ, IMDS and supplier audit.
- RFQ checklist for stamped and deep drawn parts
- Deep drawing defects and remedies
- Stainless steel grades for sensor housings
- Solenoid valve housing guide: material and magnetics
- DFM analysis
- Quote and estimate tools
Questions engineers ask
- What is deep drawing?
- Deep drawing design considerations
- Deep drawing vs progressive die stamping
- Tolerances on a deep drawn housing
- Tooling cost and lead time
- Visual and cosmetic acceptance
Materials, stock and downloads
- Materials we run – carbon and stainless steel, aluminium, copper and brass, and the special alloys.
- Stock parts – the parts we hold tooling for.
- Downloads – published catalogues and documents.
- Equipment list – what the plant actually has.
Written by the Balford technical team, Zhuji, Zhejiang. Last updated 8 October 2026.