Accepted File Formats
We accept 2D vector formats for all cutting operations. 3D files (STEP/IGES) are only needed for welding and assembly orders. Raster images (JPG, PNG) cannot be used for cutting.
DXF
Drawing Exchange Format
Most universal CAD exchange format. Works from any CAD package. Preferred for precision work.
Best ChoiceSVG
Scalable Vector Graphics
Great from Illustrator, Inkscape, or our Design Studio. Ensure units are set correctly (px vs mm vs in).
RecommendedDXF
AutoCAD Native
Native AutoCAD format. Accepted and works well — DXF is preferred for cross-software compatibility.
AcceptedAI
Adobe Illustrator
Accepted. Export as legacy AI or save as SVG for best compatibility. Confirm scale before submitting.
AcceptedEPS
Encapsulated PostScript
Accepted from Illustrator and similar tools. Confirm paths are closed and scale is correct.
AcceptedSTEP
3D CAD (Welding Only)
Required for welding and assembly orders where we need to understand the 3D geometry and joint locations.
Weld/AssemblyGeneral File Setup Rules
✓ Do This
Use closed paths — all geometry must form complete closed loops
Draw at 1:1 scale in real-world units (inches or mm)
Put all cut geometry on a single clearly named layer
Remove all construction geometry, guides, and centerlines
Confirm your file unit settings match your intended dimensions
Include a README or order note if your file has multiple parts
✗ Avoid This
Duplicate or overlapping lines — causes double-cuts and bad edges
Open paths or gaps between line segments
Dimension annotations, text labels, or title blocks in the cut layer
Raster images or embedded bitmaps of any kind
Invisible or hidden layers with geometry on them
Scaled or rotated blocks that don't reflect actual dimensions
Laser Cutting Guidelines
Design Rules
Minimum hole diameter = material thickness (e.g. 1/8" hole for 1/8" steel)
Minimum bridge between cutouts = 2× material thickness
Minimum feature size = 0.030" (0.75mm)
Keep parts within the 60" × 120" bed — flag if parts need to be stitched
Avoid features very close to the part edge — 0.030" min from edge recommended
Edge Quality Notes
Laser cutting leaves a slight heat-affected zone (HAZ) — 0.005–0.015" wide on steel
Cut edges will have a slight taper (kerf) — typically 0.005–0.010" total
Mild steel edges may have light dross on the underside — deburring removes this
For zero-HAZ requirements, use waterjet cutting instead
Stainless and aluminum have cleaner laser edges than mild steel
Tolerance: ±0.005" on cut geometry. Hole position tolerance ±0.005". If tighter tolerances are required, contact us before ordering.
Waterjet Cutting Guidelines
Design Rules
Minimum inside radius = 0.030"
Minimum bridge between cutouts = 2× material thickness
Tab/bridge support may be added by us for thin or fragile parts
Specify if parts require waterjet (no HAZ) — otherwise we may use laser on eligible materials
Same file format rules as laser — 2D flat DXF/SVG/DXF
Material Notes
No heat-affected zone — ideal for hardened alloys and weld-prep parts
Slight taper on very thick cuts (>2") — note if flatness is critical
Not recommended for galvanized steel — water causes rapid rust at cut edges
Can cut stone, glass, composites, ceramics — contact us for exotic materials
Tolerance: ±0.010" on cut geometry. Slightly looser than laser — if you need tighter than ±0.010", specify on your order and we'll discuss options.
Bending & Forming Guidelines
Flat Pattern Rules
Submit a flat (unfolded) pattern — not a 3D model
Mark bend lines on a separate layer labeled "BEND"
Note bend direction (up/down) and angle on each bend line
Account for bend allowance / K-factor in your flat pattern
Minimum flange = 3× material thickness
Keep holes at least 2× thickness from any bend line
Material Recommendations
Use 5052-H32 aluminum for tight-radius multi-bend parts — more ductile than 6061
CRS bends cleaner than hot-rolled mild steel — better for precise formed parts
6061-T6 aluminum can crack at tight radii — keep bend radius ≥ 2× thickness
Stainless springback is higher than steel — we account for this in programming
Complex 3D forms with many bends may need multiple setups — contact us first
Tolerance: Angle ±0.5°. Flange length ±0.030". If your assembly requires tighter bend tolerances, contact us before ordering.
Pre-Submit Checklist
Run through this before uploading your file. Most file rejections and delays come from these common issues.
All paths are closed — no open segments or gaps
No duplicate or overlapping lines
File is at 1:1 scale in correct units
Dimensions, annotations, and title blocks are removed or on a separate layer
Minimum hole size ≥ material thickness
Minimum bridge between cutouts ≥ 2× material thickness
No hidden layers with geometry
For bending: bend lines on separate layer with angle and direction noted
File opens correctly in a viewer — paths look right
You've noted any special requirements in the order notes