Chapter 31: Using Weldments
Other sources for custom profiles include 3D Content Central, which has a large number of erec-
tor-set aluminum extrusion profiles and the accessory hardware for those systems. Toolbox also
has a Structural Steel sketch generator, shown in Figure 31.9, which enables you to generate most
standard shapes. If you have Toolbox installed on your system, then you can find this tool in the
Toolbox menu.FIGURE 31.9The Structural Steel sketch generator interface
As I have said throughout this book, weldment profiles are a great candidate for storing in your
special library folder, separate from the SolidWorks installation directory. To establish this library
location, you can choose Tools ➪ Options ➪ File Locations ➪ Weldment Profiles. Also keep in mind
that if you share design duties with other users, then the library location should either be shared
among users on a network, or the libraries should be copied to each user’s local library. You can
also share library data through a Product Data Management, or PDM, program.If you are creating completely new custom profiles, then remember that when locating the profile
relative to the path segments, you can use any sketch point. As a result, you should provide ample
selections for pierce points. Virtual sharps function well around filleted corners, as well as sketch
points at the centroid of a shape.In addition to sketch geometry, the library part files should also contain custom property informa-
tion about the structural shape, such as part number, supplier, material, and so on. This informa-
tion propagates to the Cut list.Corner treatments
Any intersection of sketch lines at mutual endpoints within a single group, except as noted in this
section, creates a situation that requires that the corners be cut to match. Figure 31.10 shows an
example of the options that are available when lines meet at right angles. Notice that within a
group, you have the option to set a weld gap at the intersections.