Overview
Short answers about STEP, STP, STL, 3MF, DXF, PDF drawings, native CAD, assemblies, units, and revisions.
File formats
- What is the best file for most parts? STEP or STP is preferred for solid mechanical parts.
- What should I upload for 3D printing? STL or 3MF, plus notes about units, material, finish, and quantity.
- What should I upload for laser cutting? A clean 1:1 DXF with closed contours, plus material, thickness, units, and quantity.
- What is a PDF drawing for? It defines tolerances, threads, finish, material, inspection, and notes that CAD alone does not define.
Revision and scale
- How do I avoid wrong revisions? Use clear file names and remove obsolete uploads from the active quote.
- Why do units matter? Some formats can lose unit information, causing scale errors.
- Can I upload an assembly? Yes, but identify which parts are manufactured and which are reference or purchased components.
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