Rapid Prototyping, Pilot and MVB Production Capabilities

Sheet Metal Prototyping & Rapid Tooling

Validate Form, Fit, and Function in Weeks—Not Months.

FKI USA bridges the gap between concept and mass production.
We combine 6kW & 12kW Fiber Laser speed with Soft Tooling to deliver functional, production-intent metal parts while your hard tools are being built.

Scalability

Don’t Just Make a Sample. Validate the Process.

Many job shops deliver parts that look right. We deliver parts that meet the specification and behave right. By using computer simulation and modular soft tooling, we identify DFM risks during the prototype phase—saving you from costly re-designs when you scale to hard tooling.

The FKI “Bridge to Production” Service: We run pilot and MVB production runs in smaller (50–500 pc runs) using soft or hybird tooling and CNC forming to support your assembly line validation while permanent Class-A tooling is being manufactured.

The FKI "Bridge Production" Service

We run pilot lots (100 – 500 parts) using soft tooling and CNC forming to support your assembly line validation while permanent Class-A tooling is being machined.

Laser, Forming & Soft Tooling

Production Power, Prototype Speed

12kW Fiber Laser

Minimal Tooling. Instant Blanks.

High-speed cutting for geometry validation.

Capacity

78” x 157” sheet size.

Power

Cuts 1.125” Carbon Steel / 1.00″ Aluminum.

Speed

24-48 Hour Turnaround on flat blanks.

Modular Die Sets

Short Run. Soft Tooling.

In-house brake presses for complex forms.

Range

10 to 5,000+ parts.

Speed

Tools built in days, not months.

Advantage

<10% of a Progressive Die.

CNC Forming

Precision Without Dies

Multi-axis brake press forming for complex geometries.

Force

440 Tons (Heavy Gauge Capable).

Bed Length

18 ft (Large Part Capable).

Precision

5-Axis Backgauging for repeatability.

Industries We Serve

We carry the certifications that allow you to sell into regulated markets. Our quality lab features Zeiss CMMs for certification and Hexagon Portable Arms for reverse engineering.

Virtual Prototyping

We Crash the Tool in Software First

How do you know your prototype will scale? We use computer FEA simulation software to predict thinning, wrinkling, and springback before cutting metal.

This “Digital Twin” process ensures your prototype is a scalable design,
not just a one-off.

Technical Specifications

Capabilities at a Glance

Feature Specification
Material Thickness0.015 to 1.125 (Steel)
Max Sheet Size78 x 157 (Laser)
Brake PressUp to 440 Tons
Stamping PressUp to 600 Tons
Volume Range10 to 5,000+
MaterialsCRS, HRPO, Stainless, Alum, Copper, Brass, HSLA, Dula Phase and Tri Phase Materials
File Types.STEP, .DXF, .IGES, .SLDPRT, .DWG
QualityISO 9001:2015 Compliant Processes

Where to Next?

Scale to High Volume

Transition your soft tool designs into 600-ton
progressive dies for runs of 1M+ parts.

EXPLORE STAMPING CAPABILITIES

Build Hard Tooling

Move from temporary fixtures to permanent Class-A
tooling built in our 18,000 sq. ft. shop.

EXPLORE TOOL & DIE

Integrate & Assemble

Don't just ship parts. We handle welding, riveting,
and box-build integration.

EXPLORE ASSEMBLY

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to common questions about our prototyping & soft tooling processes and how to get started on your project.

What is the lead time for Soft Tooling?

Flat laser-cut blanks can be turned around in 24–48 hours. Simple formed parts typically ship in 1–2 weeks. Complex soft tooling assemblies may take 2–4 weeks depending on material availability.

Can you use production-intent material?

Yes. We source the exact material grade (including HSLA, Aluminum, or Stainless) specified for your final production run to ensure valid testing data.

Do you offer PPAP for bridge tooling?

Yes. We can provide inspection reports, capability studies, and material certifications (MTRs) for bridge production runs to support your initial validation requirements.

PARTNERSHIP &
NEXT STEPS

Ready to Validate Your Design?

From concept to the assembly line, we are your partner for the long haul.