Four steps, zero surprises
Bauer strives to keep even the most complex projects simple with a four-step process taking you from design concept to final delivery.
Skip to the start
All you need is to submit part design files and some basic information. In return, you’ll receive a competitive quote with clear Design for Manufacturing (DFM) feedback.
Send us your:
- Part print as a PDF
- Models can be included if you have them (STEP/IGES preferred)
- Quantity range (prototype and production)
- Target dates (first article/production)
You’ll get:
- Acknowledgement in one business day
- Quote and DFM guidance in five days or less
A clear path from initial design to full-scale production
This efficient yet comprehensive process is made possible by housing DFM guidance, precision bending, robotic welding and final inspection under one roof. This prevents quoting delays, tooling surprises, handoff reworks and production-readiness gaps.

Step 1
DFM & quote
What we review
- Bend radii and die availability for manufacturability
- Weld joint access and fixturing plan for repeatability
- Materials and finish choices that affect timing and cost
What you receive
- Quotes for prototype and/or production
- DFM recommendations
- Lead time estimates for each milestone (prototype, FAI/PPAP, production)

Step 2
Prototype and first article preparation
What we review
- Tolerance variation and manufacturing risks that increase with scale
- Fixture design and repeatability potential
- Critical dimensions and inspection plans (FAI readiness)
What you receive
- Prototype parts built to print specifications
- Tooling requirements, lead times and pricing
- List of likely production challenges and recommended corrections

Step 3
First Article/PPAP production
What we review
- Potential for repeatability (process checks and fixture strategy)
- Customer-specific quality and documentation requirements
- Packaging/handling considerations to prevent product damage
What you receive
- FAI/PPAP documentation
- Stable, documented processes for production expansion

Step 4
Scale production with quality and efficiency
What we review
- Capacity and scheduling requirements
- Post-launch cost-saving opportunities (cycle time, labor, tooling strategy)
- Change management plan
What you receive
- Consistent assemblies with fewer disruptions
- A long-term production path (not just a prototype win)
- Proactive communication for troubleshooting and changes
Bring all your assembly needs under one roof
Working between multiple companies on one project introduces risks at every level. Ensure precision and reliability by working with our team from start to finish. Because complexity demands consistent preparation and execution.
Avoid slow quotes that stall builds
Get clear DFM feedback and quote guidance without weeks of back-and-forth.
Minimize tooling costs that block progress
Use our extensive bend die library to avoid unnecessary upfront spend.
Reduce handoffs that create rework
Keep bend, weld and fabrication aligned under one roof.
Eliminate poor production readiness
Expect FAI/PPAP discipline and clear documentation.
FAQs
These are the questions we hear most from engineers and sourcing teams. If your question isn’t answered here, please reach out to us for more information.
Yes, our team can handle initial prototyping through full-scale production.
Yes. Bauer in-house capabilities support everything you need to deliver complex weldment prototypes. You can move from prototype to production without switching suppliers midstream.
Integrated processes, tooling templates and real-time communication, engineer to engineer.
.PDF and STEP are preferred, but we can work with most major formats.
Absolutely. Every quote includes manufacturability insights, and we’ll redline files with recommendations.
Expect quote responses within three to five business days. Prototype lead times are often within two to three weeks. Production timelines vary based on part complexity, volume and material.
Yes, our in-house tool shop can produce all check and weld fixtures.
Upload a drawing. Get DFM feedback and pricing.
Send your print file and a few basics. We’ll review your plans for manufacturability, flag risks and return a quote in three to five business days.