FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Short answers drawn from our technical guides. For project-specific decisions, confirm with the responsible design team.
What is a double-curved aluminum panel?
A double-curved panel curves in two principal directions — dome-like or saddle-like — while a single-curved panel bends in one direction only, like a cylinder. A facade can have an overall compound shape while using a mix of flat, single-curved and double-curved panels; review the actual panel boundaries on the design surface before choosing a fabrication method.
What should I send for a reliable quote?
Send the 3D surface or editable model, the panel boundaries, sections through the critical panels in different directions, and the current revision data. A rendering alone does not identify the exact surface, the individual panel boundaries or the fixing offsets, so it cannot replace the model and the sections.
Why do double-curved panel quotes vary so much?
Two suppliers may quote the same gross facade area while assuming different panel divisions — one prices a smooth compound surface with individual formed panels, another approximates it with more joints and single-curved pieces. Compare geometry, unique shapes, tooling, finish and installation scope on the same drawing revision, and ask both suppliers to mark their assumed panel boundaries on the same model.
When can double-curved panels share a mold?
Several panels may use a common tool even when their final trims, edge returns or bracket holes differ. But two panels with equal length and width can have different curvature and need different tooling. A schedule of 120 panels tells the fabricator how many parts to deliver; it does not establish the number of forming tools — group compatible panel shapes and distinguish the physical part count from the tooling count.
What CAD files should I send for curved aluminum panels?
A PDF shows dimensions and notes, while an editable surface file gives the fabricator geometry to inspect. A rendered picture helps with orientation but replaces neither. Agree on the native or neutral format, include the intended units, datum and revision, and reopen the exported file to check that trims, surface orientation and panel IDs survived the transfer.
What is the difference between a STEP file and a mesh?
A mesh approximates a surface with facets, while a surface-based exchange file may preserve faces and trim boundaries more directly, depending on how the model was exported. If a mesh is necessary, record the units and resolution and include a dimensioned reference — and do not use the appearance of a shaded mesh as the acceptance criterion for a fabricated panel.
What is springback in formed aluminum panels?
A formed sheet can change shape when removed from tooling. The resulting difference depends on the material, the geometry and the forming process, so it is a production question to verify on a representative part. Give the fabricator the target surface, the permitted deviation and the alloy and temper requirements, and ask how the forming process will be validated before series work.
What should a curved cladding mock-up include?
A useful mock-up represents a hard condition such as a seam, a corner, a support or a finish transition. A panel presented without its neighbours cannot demonstrate the full installed effect. Select the representative bay, agree which checks the mock-up addresses, and record the approved revision and any unresolved changes before authorising series fabrication.
How are curved panels packed for export?
Irregular parts need supports that suit their shapes and finishes. The packing layout should identify how each panel is held and how it can be removed without loading an unsupported edge. Ask for crate drawings or packing information showing the support and protection locations, crate size and gross weight, and match crate IDs to the installation zones.
How do I order a replacement panel for a curved facade?
A replacement needs the approved surface, trim, hole locations and finish record — a similar-looking panel from another zone may have incompatible geometry or handedness. Supply the original part ID, the as-installed location, the revision and photos of adjacent panels, and ask whether the tooling is retained. Review the colour match under the actual viewing conditions, especially when existing finishes have weathered.