Computer Interfacing Software - Suggested File Types

It is a good practice to receive from the customer a Print (Drawing) as well as some type of 3D file. Questions that may arise on a drawing might be resolved by measuring the model. Unless otherwise specified by the customer; the drawing will remain the official document for manufacturing purposes, due to the tolerances being called out.

Customers may choose to send a 2D version of their file, as noted below, for quotation purposes. Then send the 3D file once an order is placed.

The 3D model is also good in that complex surfaces such as multiple radii blends are already drawn for us, thus the customer gets what they have designed. A solid model is the best choice when available. We can manipulate it for our use in many ways; extract surfaces, measure, & cross section to name a few.

Whenever possible, native CADKEY file types (v99, v19 or v21.5) or SolidWorks (2005) will always be the best options. Please note that with "associative" programs such as SolidWorks, all of the referenced files must be sent together.

Preferences of conventional formats (in order of best to worst for each type of file) PDF & Images DWG DXF IGES ACIS STEP Drawings 1 2 3 * Wire Frames 2 1 3 Surfaces 3 1 2 Solids 1 2

Drawings - Paper prints or 2D layouts, & sketches. IGES is possible, but not recommended. Wire Frames - 3D models without surfaces or solids. Surfaces - 3D models without solid information, solids are usually converted to surfaces when exported. Solids - 3D solid models. STEP files are smaller, which is good for email.

Suggested File Types | Supported Formats