Choosing the right sheet thickness for enclosures and brackets

Thin sheet (0.8–1.5 mm) suits covers and panels that carry no load. Add bends or ribs for stiffness instead of thickness.

Medium sheet (2–3 mm) is the workhorse for brackets, frames and electrical enclosures.

Heavy sheet (4–6 mm and above) is for load-bearing parts. Check the minimum bend radius and die opening of your press brake first.

Going one size thinner can cut material cost by 25–35%, so always ask whether the load really needs the extra millimetre.