You can export a file from AutoCAD or AutoCAD Mechanical in DXF, DWG, or STEP formats, depending on your part type. For laser-cut sheet and plate parts, export as a 2D DXF or DWG. For CNC machining or 3D parts, save as a STEP (.stp). All files must be drawn at 1:1 scale in inches or millimeters.
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!
We offer beveling and 3D cutting in billet stock with our CNC machining service. CNC machining is not available for laser cut sheet and plate.
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
Setup for tapping depends on whether you plan to order sheet parts or machined billet parts. For sheet and plate parts, we accept both vector and 3D file formats and we’ll resize holes up to 4.00″ to fit the tap size you choose. For machined billet parts, we accept STEP/STP files and require additional info before checkout to confirm the taps needed.
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
