3D CAD Model File Format for Submitting an RFQ
When you use our instant online quote system for a plastic injection molding project, the first step is to upload the 3D CAD model of your part. Our system analyzes the model, and gives you an instant quote based on your quantity, material and other options.
Sometimes there’s uncertainty about what file format to use for the CAD model, so we’d like to clarify. When possible, a STEP file with an .stp or .step file extension is the preferred format to upload. STEP is a very common format used by designers and engineers for CAD files.
However, if you don’t have your models in STEP format, we can usually convert them for you from other formats. An exception is the .stl format, which is used for 3D printing, but doesn’t convert correctly for us to use for injection molding. If all you have is an .stl file, you will need to go back to the CAD source file and save it in STEP format.
If you encounter any issues uploading your STEP files to our system, please contact our project engineers and they will happily assist you in uploading them, or you can send them to us via email.
