I need to work out how to cater for the different weights of a SW modelled weldment compared to actual fabricated weldment.  We have found that on our large complex weldments, the actual weigh will be up to 10-12% more than the SW calculated weight.  Eg for a 6T unit, we need to add an extra 600kg for the final shipping weight.  This can be due to weld (yes there is a lot sometimes) and paint.  We have checked the densities of the materials we use and it all looks good.

We don't want to add "welds" to the model as the models are alreay complex (and SLOW) enough.  So as an alternative we have been thinking of add a variable called "Finished Weight" which is calculated on the SW-Mass x 1.12.  This will give us an estimate final weight.  In some cases this will be on the heavy side but we would prefer that than being too light.

Now the issue is, when we have multiple configurations say with and without motors, we should have differnent "Finished Weights" but the variable "Finished Weight" doesn't change for the configuration.  It seems that the variable is calculated on the last SW-Mass value you were looking at.

Would someone be able to:

- tell me if there is a better way of allowing for additional weights to parts/assys due to fabrication. (We did think of adding a dummy weight in but this skews the centre of mass calculation too much)

- tell me why/how I can get me calculation to work for differing configurations

The final weight does not have to be exact, but +/- say 150kg is close enough

Thanks in advance.

Jason