How to Submit Drawings for a Stainless Steel Fabrication Job

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Send a complete set of drawings in a clear, editable and printable format, together with photos of the site and a short written specification of the material, finish and loads. Include dimensions, connection details and the intended use so the fabricator can quote, detail and produce the work without guesswork. When in doubt, send the file early and ask for a review before final approval.

Decide which files to send

Most fabricators prefer PDF for review and DWG or DXF for production. PDF shows the intended layout clearly, while CAD files let the shop check geometry and extract profiles directly.

PDF drawings at true scale, with a title block
DWG or DXF files for editable geometry
Site photos showing the surroundings and any existing fixings

Name every file with the project, the element and the revision letter so nothing gets mixed up.

Include the dimensions that matter

Show overall sizes, opening sizes, and the position of every element relative to a fixed reference such as the floor, a wall or a column. Mark which dimensions are taken on site and which are design targets, because the two often differ.

If the work is to be fitted into an existing opening, state whether the on-site measurement is final or whether the fabricator should measure again before production.

Specify the stainless steel grade and finish

Stainless steel comes in several grades and surface finishes, and the choice affects corrosion resistance, appearance and cost. State the grade, the finish (such as brushed, polished or satin), and whether the piece will be exposed to sea air, pools or chemicals.

Also note whether welds must be ground and passivated, and whether any part must be left unpolished for later work on site.

Describe the loads and use

A railing, a gate and a canopy support different forces. Explain what the element carries and how people or equipment will use it. For railings, the Israeli standard SI 1142 is the usual reference, but exact values should be confirmed with the engineer of record rather than taken from a summary.

If there is a structural engineer involved, ask them to sign or confirm the load-bearing details before production starts.

Show the connections and fixings

Explain how each piece attaches to the building: to concrete, to steel, to masonry or to another metal element. Show anchor positions, plate sizes and any embedded items that must be placed during construction.

Anchor type and location
Welded or bolted connections
Any tolerances needed for alignment

Confirm, then release for production

Once the drawings are sent, the fabricator should return a written reply that confirms understanding of the scope, any open questions and the revision being built. Approve that reply in writing before production begins.

Keep a record of each revision. If a drawing changes after approval, send the new revision letter clearly marked so the shop does not work from an old file.

Frequently asked questions

What file format is best for sending stainless steel drawings?

Send a PDF for review and a DWG or DXF file for production. Together they let both sides check the design and extract accurate geometry.

Do I need to send site photos as well?

Yes, photos are very helpful. They show existing conditions, fixings and obstacles that drawings sometimes miss.

Should I specify the stainless steel grade on the drawing?

Yes. State the grade, finish and exposure conditions on the drawing so the material and surface treatment are correct from the start.

What if my measurements change after I send the drawings?

Send a new revision with a clear revision letter and a short note of what changed. Confirm the update in writing before the shop continues.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common error is sending drawings without a stated material grade, finish or connection detail, which forces back-and-forth and delays. Another is working from an old revision after the design has changed.

Our recommendation

Before sending, check that every dimension, grade, finish and fixing is written on the drawing itself rather than only in an email. Ask the fabricator to confirm the revision in writing before production.

Summary

Send complete, clearly named drawings in PDF and CAD formats, with site photos, grade and finish details, load information and connection details. Confirm each revision in writing before production starts.

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