Here is our easy file setup checklist for AutoCAD:
Export either a two-dimensional DXF file showing just the flat cut pattern or a STEP/STP file;
If your part requires sheet metal bending services, include bend location lines;
All holes and cutouts are at least 50% material thickness for laser cut parts;
All holes and cutouts are no less than 0.070” for most waterjet cut parts;
All holes and cutouts are no less than 0.125” for all CNC routed parts;
File is built at a 1:1 scale, preferably in inch or mm units;
All objects are on the same layer;
All stray points, duplicate lines, empty objects and text areas have been removed;
No shapes have open contours;
All shapes have been united, combined or merged;
All text has been converted to outlines or paths;
Cut-out text (reversed text) has bridges or has been stencilized.
Check out our blog for more information on properly setting up your file for laser cutting, waterjet cutting, or CNC routing.
