Overview
Different manufacturing methods need different files. A 3D model defines shape, a drawing defines controlled requirements, a DXF defines flat cutting paths, and reference files explain appearance or assembly context. Uploading the right file set improves quote accuracy and reduces clarification time.
Format table
| Format | Best for | Important notes |
|---|---|---|
| STEP or STP | CNC, sheet metal, molding, casting, assemblies | Preferred neutral solid format for most mechanical manufacturing quotes. |
| STL | 3D printing mesh | Check units, scale, watertightness, and mesh resolution. |
| 3MF | 3D printing with richer metadata | Useful for units, color, materials, and multi-body data where supported. |
| DXF | Flat laser cutting, waterjet, 2D profiles | Use 1:1 scale, closed contours, no duplicate lines, and no title block geometry. |
| PDF drawing | Tolerances, threads, finish, material, inspection, notes | Required when any requirement cannot be inferred from the model. |
| Native CAD | Assemblies and design clarification | Helpful when mates, feature trees, or part relationships matter. |
| Images | Cosmetic references, labels, existing parts | Useful as support only; images do not replace dimensional CAD. |
Best file set by process
- CNC machining: STEP/STP plus PDF drawing when tolerances, threads, surface roughness, or inspection matter.
- 3D printing: STL or 3MF plus notes for material, finish, quantity, and fit-critical dimensions.
- Sheet metal: STEP/STP for bent parts, DXF for flat profile, and PDF drawing for bends, inserts, finish, and tolerances.
- Laser cutting: clean DXF plus material, thickness, quantity, units, and edge/finish requirements.
- Molding or casting: STEP/STP plus drawing with material, texture, color, tolerances, inserts, and approved revision.
Common file problems
- The file is scaled incorrectly or units are not stated.
- The uploaded model is not the latest revision.
- A mesh file is not watertight or has extremely coarse triangles.
- A DXF contains duplicate lines, open contours, hidden layers, text, dimensions, or title block geometry mixed with cut paths.
- The drawing requests tight tolerances everywhere, increasing cost without improving function.
How Uretyco uses files
Uretyco uses files to analyze geometry, identify process fit, calculate likely production effort, and route the order to suitable suppliers. File completeness also helps the AI assistant ask better questions and explain why a process, material, finish, or tolerance may be appropriate.
FAQ
- Can I upload more than one file? Yes. A good quote often uses a model, drawing, and notes together.
- Can I use a screenshot only? Usually no. Screenshots can clarify appearance but do not contain reliable dimensions.
- Can Uretyco help identify the right format? Yes. Upload what you have and describe the part goal.
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