DWG/DXF Files

[steviec_lj]

Well, time has come to get some stuff Laser Cut.

If I can supply the image to them in a DXF format, they will cut them for free as long as I supply the steel.

Never used AutoCAD, but have used Illustrator which I can export the file to DXF/DWG.

Do I need to include measurements on the image? It is 1:1 in scale, so assume not. They haven't mentioned it either...

 

[Welderpaul]

All you need to do is save it as DXF or DWG format and draw it at 1:1 scale. No need to add measurements.

 

[steviec_lj]

Brilliant. Thanks Paul..

 

[Eastblock]

It may be prudent to give them a print of the drawing with measurements. I know people who have had parts cut where there were scaling issue. It shouldn't happen but better safe than sorry. I always supply two files, a cut file and a file with dimensions on it.

A laser cuts all thats on the drawing so a cut file should be cleaned of everything you don't want to be cut.

 

[Paul.]

I always put my dimensions in a separate layer, then turn it off before sending it, stick a note in the email to the laser cutter that they are there for reference if needed,
its very important to make sure all the lines join up in a drawing, any gaps and the laser wont make a full cut, easy enough with the snaps turned on in autocad, I've never used illustrator so don't know how it will convert,
If you want to send me an example dxf, I can open it in autocad and check it out for you.

 

[snowcat]

with autocad I always pedit any shape to change it to a pollyline, thus a continual shape, this also serves as a doublecheck to make sure theres no extra lines left from construction, I try and always work on a single layer, Its one less potential cock up when nesting.

supplying them with dims may help, however its likely there load the file nest and go, I only ever measure drawn components when nesting to check material fits the array.

 

[Normsthename]

Definitely supply some overall dimensions.
I have had problems in the past when different CAD packages export in Imperial or Metric.
Most Laser software will just look at the units but better safe than sorry.
I had a job a few years ago when the chap on the Laser came into the office carrying a large piece of metal with a puzzled look.
It turns out that it had been cut out at 36 inches instead of 36mm
Ask NASA about confusing Imperial with Metric

http://www.tysknews.com/Depts/Metrication/mystery_of_orbiter_crash_solved.htm

with autocad I always pedit any shape to change it to a pollyline

Be careful with that....
Some older Laser software will only read simple lines, arcs and circles etc
The Company then might charge for cleaning up the file.

Andy