Metal cutting from your DXF file or finished drawing

Why DXF rather than a PDF or an image?

DXF is a vector format: every line and arc in it is a mathematically defined object that our CNC laser control software reads directly, with no redrawing step. That is why a job arriving as DXF reaches the machine fastest. AutoCAD DWG files we convert to DXF ourselves at no charge. PDF, JPG and PNG are raster images — a line in them is a cluster of pixels, while the laser needs a toolpath, so such files have to be traced into vectors first and that step is quoted separately.

• DXF R12, R14 and R2000 — all three read natively on our machine
• DWG — an AutoCAD file; conversion to DXF is on us and costs nothing
• AI, EPS and SVG — fine for simple contours, but we need the scale confirmed
• PDF, JPG and PNG — raster files; they need vectorizing before cutting
• The drawing must be two-dimensional and dimensioned in millimetres

How does metal cutting from a DXF file work, step by step?

There are five steps: send the file, free check, price approval, cutting, collection. The manufacturable minimum hole diameter depends on the metal grade, thickness, geometry and particular equipment. Specify the required size in the drawing; the team confirms feasibility after reviewing the file. If something needs correcting we name the specific line and tell you — nothing is cut before you approve. The full file-preparation specification, including kerf allowance and minimum hole diameter, lives on its own page: "How to prepare a file for laser cutting".

How do you export a clean DXF from each program?

Every CAD and vector editor exports DXF its own way, and the results differ. R2000 gives the most reliable file; R12 remains the safe fallback for older software. The table below shows where the export sits in each program and what we look at first when the file lands.

Which metals and thicknesses will my DXF cut in?

The same DXF can be cut in several metals — only the thickness ceiling changes. The same file costs differently per material because cutting speed depends on thickness and alloy: 5mm stainless takes several times longer on an identical contour than 1mm aluminium. Specify the required tolerance in the drawing; achievable tolerance and edge finishing are confirmed for the material, thickness and geometry.

What we don't do — and when you'll need a partner workshop

Stated plainly: plasma cutting, waterjet cutting, press-brake bending, CNC milling and lathe work do not happen at our workshop — we do not own that equipment. If the part in your DXF exceeds our thickness ceiling, contains bend lines, or needs volumetric machining, we tell you before quoting and refer you to a vetted partner workshop. We only take on work our own machine can finish end to end.

• In-house: CNC fiber laser cutting and engraving on metal, wood, acrylic, leather and paper
• Not in-house: plasma cutting, waterjet, press-brake bending, CNC milling, lathe work
• Parts thicker than 10mm or otherwise non-standard go to a partner workshop, and we tell you up front

What does a DXF-based order cost, and how long does it take?

Three things set the price: total cut-path length, material type and thickness, and a one-off setup fee. That is why a part with the same outer dimensions but many holes and fine ornament costs more than a plain outline — the cut path is several times longer. Minimum order is one part; on larger quantities the unit price falls, because the setup fee is spread across the run. Timing is agreed after the project review. Send the metal grade, thickness, drawing, finishing and quantity, required date and collection or delivery location.