How to Create a Broken-Out Section in SOLIDWORKS Drawings

What Is a Broken-Out Section?

A Broken-Out Section is a drawing-only feature used to show internal features by removing material from a selected portion of a view. Unlike full or half sections, it applies to a localized area, giving you greater flexibility and clarity for technical communication.

Steps to Create a Broken-Out Section in SOLIDWORKS

1. Open Your Drawing and Select the View
   
   Start by opening your drawing and clicking on the view you want to modify.
   
   
2. Create a Sketch on the View
   
   
   
   • Go to the Sketch tab.
     
     
   • Draw a closed profile—typically with the spline, circle, or polygon tool—around the area you want to expose.
     
     
3. Activate Broken-Out Section
   
   
   
   • Go to Insert > Drawing View > Broken-Out Section.
     
     
   • Alternatively, right-click inside the drawing view and select Broken-Out Section from the context menu.
     
     
4. Set the Depth
   
   
   
   • Choose between Through Entire Part or specify a Depth.
     
     
   • You can define the depth numerically or select a model edge or face for reference.
     
     
5. Finish the Command
   
   Click OK. SOLIDWORKS will remove material inside the sketch boundary to the defined depth, revealing internal geometry in that area.
   
   

Best Practices

• Use clear sketches to avoid confusion. Spline sketches are flexible but should stay simple.
  
  
• Depth control is key. If you’re not seeing the expected results, verify the depth reference or distance.
  
  
• Don’t overuse broken-out sections. They are powerful but can clutter the drawing if used excessively.
  
  

Why Use Broken-Out Sections?

Broken-Out Sections are ideal when:

• You need to highlight a small internal feature
  
  
• Full section views would obscure surrounding geometry
  
  
• You want to save space on a drawing sheet
  
  

They offer a clean, controlled way to reveal what matters most—without complicating your layout.

Conclusion

Broken-Out Sections in SOLIDWORKS are a precise and efficient way to improve technical clarity in your drawings. With just a few clicks, you can expose internal features exactly where you need them—helping others understand your design without needing to dig into the 3D model. If you regularly work with complex assemblies or tight drawing layouts, this is a tool you’ll want to keep in your toolbox.

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