Most delays at the start of an order come not from a busy shop but from a file that needs reworking. We have collected the typical problems — so your drawing goes into production right away.
Which format to send
For flat parts the most convenient format is DXF — a vector format that shows the contour directly. DWG works too. For 3D parts and products to be bent, send STEP: from the 3D model we will build the flat pattern ourselves with the correct allowances.
PDF, JPG or a screenshot, however, is not a drawing: the geometry cannot be read from them, and the part has to be redrawn — that means time and a risk of error. Such files are only good as an explanation attached to the main one.
Mistakes that most often stop the work
- An open contour. The most common problem: lines visually meet, but a gap of hundredths of a millimetre remains between them. The equipment does not recognize such a contour as a shape.
- Double lines. A contour traced twice will make the machine cut the same spot twice — this ruins the edge and doubles the time.
- Dimension lines and frames in the same layer. Anything that is not a cutting contour is better moved to a separate layer or deleted.
- Scale other than 1:1. The file must be at real dimensions, in millimetres.
- Text as a font. Lettering for engraving or cutting must be converted to curves, otherwise it will not reproduce.
- Holes that are too small. A hole smaller than the metal thickness is mostly impossible to make — it is a physical limitation.
What to specify along with the file
The contour alone does not carry all the information, so in your message it is worth stating:
- material and thickness (for example, "stainless AISI 304, 2 mm");
- quantity of parts;
- whether bending, welding or painting is needed;
- which dimensions are critical and where deviation is acceptable;
- where the product will be used — the coating depends on it.
If you have no drawing
That is not an obstacle. A hand sketch with dimensions, a photo of a sample with a ruler in the frame, or an old part to be reproduced will do. Our engineers will prepare the file themselves — it is standard practice, especially for repair parts.
A finished file can be uploaded straight to the online quoting cabinet to see the cost without waiting, or sent through the form on the website — we will quote within one business day.
