Working with 3D CAD Data

3D CAD is the language of new product development, and while we don't have every possible CAD package available, our Estimators, Project Engineers, and Project Managers are well versed in a variety of CAD applications and can often add value to your project at the CAD level.

For any type of CNC machining, Quick-Turn Injection molding, or production injection molding, we can accept native Solid Works or Pro Engineer files, or an exported parasolid (.x_t), .igs, or .stp file.

The industry standard for all rapid prototyping is the .stl file, and if you send us any of the file types above, we will gladly convert them to .stl ourselves. The file is a series of triangles that form the surfaces of your object. The extension is an abbreviation for Stereolithography, the first and most popular RP process, but the file type is universal for all 3D printing and rapid prototyping applications. Most CAD packages allow you to fine tune the output settings for .stl, to adjust the resolution of the triangles. Settings such as chord height, angle control, deviation, and angle tolerance will be found in Solid Works and Pro Engineer.  

Please contact us if you have any questions about translating your CAD data for machining, injection molding,or rapid prototyping.