Proper File Format for Submitting an RFQ
When you use our instant online quote system, the first step is to upload your 3D CAD model(s). Our system analyzes the models, compares them to other projects in a huge database of CAD models, part geometries and data, and gives you an instant quote.
Sometimes our customers have confusion about what file format to use for the CAD model, so we’d like to clarify as to what is the proper file format for submitting an RFQ. When possible, a STEP file with an .stp or .step file extension is the preferred file format for submitting an RFQ. STEP is a very common format for CAD files used by designers and engineers.
However, if you don’t have your models in STEP format, we can usually assist in getting them converted for you. We have conversion tools that work with many of the common CAD programs being used today. An exception is the .stl format, which is common for 3D printing, but doesn’t always translate correctly for us. This is actually the biggest issue we run into – with the explosion of 3D printing, people get .stl files and try to upload those to us for a plastic injection molding project.
Also, if you ever encounter any issues uploading your STEP files to our system, please contact our project engineers and they will be happy to assist you in uploading them, or you can send them to us via email.
