If you want to export a part design file from FreeCAD, you can save either a 3D .step format file or a 2D .dxf format file. Exporting a STEP file from FreeCAD Before you export your STEP file, ensure that it meets our 3D File Guidelines. To save a STEP file, from the 3D-View
Due to security reasons, if you send us a zipped folder we won’t be able to open it and download the files. Please export the original STEP, STP, DXF, DWG, AI, or EPS file and upload it to our website for pricing in our available materials!
If you send a link to your design (such as a Google Drive or Dropbox link), we won’t be able to open the link and download the file for security reasons. This includes links from online shareable CAD platforms like OnShape. Please export the original DXF, DWG, AI, or EPS file and upload it to our website for pricing in our available materials!
It’s important that the file you upload for bending is in a format that we can accept. Currently we accept STEP and STP format 3D files. If uploading a 2D file, it will need to be a flat vector file (DXF, DWG, EPS, or AI format). We have tutorials you can follow to learn how to turn a bent part into a flat pattern in various CAD software.
3D preview issues with bent parts can be due to a lack of bend reliefs, bend lines that don’t extend the full width of the part, and incorrect file setup. Read the complete FAQ to learn more!
Our requirements for minimum geometry are listed as specifications on each individual material page in our Material Catalog. Minimums depend on the cut method and material thickness, so be sure to review our guidelines and specifications before uploading your part file.
Ensure that 2D files are free of duplicate paths, that .step or .stp format files meet our 3D file guidelines, and that all cut geometry meets the minimums for materials selected. See the full FAQ for more tips!
At this time SendCutSend does not offer beveling services or 3D cutting. This includes cutting/grinding a taper into knife blades. We only offer 2D perpendicular cuts and cannot produce any kind of beveled or radiused edge options.
In order to produce your part, we’ll need a 2D vector-based file of the design to be cut (DWG, DXF, EPS, or Adobe Illustrator format) showing just the flat cut pattern for the part at 1:1 scaling, and no additional information like text, borders, crosshairs, or dimensions. We also accept 3D files in the STEP and STP formats. Your STEP/STP file must include only one solid body of uniform thickness to upload successfully.
We have multiple etching limitations to keep in mind since we do not offer laser engraving or solid etching. Our etching services are currently limited to single line etching. Please note: single line etching is faint and shouldn’t be used for cosmetic applications.
Powder coating adds 7-10 days to an order’s lead time. Check out the complete FAQ and our powder coating guidelines for all details, tips, and considerations!
For 2D vector files, we accept DXF, DWG, EPS, and AI (Adobe Illustrator) formats. For 3D files, we accept STEP and STP formats.
You can powder coat bent/formed and tapped parts. Please be aware that die witness marks from the press brake will be visible through the coating. Also, you will have to chase any tapped holes to clear the threads once you receive the parts.
Our pre-flight checklist for file setup applies to all our services. Make sure all your part files fit within these guidelines before you send them to us, and we’ll be able to get your parts to you faster and easier. Don’t forget to read up on all our services guidelines as well to make
Make sure holes are no larger than 0.500″ and are at least the minimum required distance away from adjacent cut features. Please note, we only tap holes perpendicular to the top or bottom surface of parts.
The biggest thing to keep in mind if you want to powder coat your parts is the added thickness of the powder. Powder coating can add anywhere from .007”-.010” to the surface of your part, so design all clearances with the added width in mind. The best materials for powder coating are Aluminum 5052
Everything you need to know to design for laser-cutting, CNC routing, bending, and tapping.
Everything from software-specific tutorials to material selection tips.
We have sheet metals, plastics, composites, and wood/boards for every project.
Min and Max part sizes for all our materials
