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Checklist before you upload

  • There is no loose parts within the drawing (for example, the centre of an 0)
  • There is no borders or dimensions on the file, just the outlines of all shapes to be cut
  • There is no open contours (incomplete circles)
  • All holes or slots are at least half the material thickness for laser and full thickness for plasma with a minimum of 2mm.

 

Which Cutting method is for me?

 Plasma cutting is a fast and cheap method of cutting metals, it provides a good cut edge and can cut through very thick materials. It is quite cheap to run providing better prices to customers. 

 

Laser cutting is usually more expensive, but provides a more crisp cut and allows finer details to be put into a part without as much heat to help prevent warping. It does take longer to process, but if you aren't in a rush and are happy to pay a little more you wont be disappointed.

 

How to create a file for cutting

Cut files are most typically DXF or DWG formats, most, if not all CAD programs can output these file types.

If you don't have a program to draw with there is plenty of free 2d programs available for download on the net and also cloud based online drawing sites. Or you can download many different drawing apps for your phone or tablet, which can be quite handy to draw while working on your project. We have had customers have good success with the apps, AutoCAD, CADraw and UVCAD. 

 

Drafting services

We offer in house drafting services if you need some parts drawn up and then cut. All files can be emailed to you for future use. email cnc@kinselaskustoms.com.au for assistance.

 

Helpful tips for getting a part that cuts well

  • When drawing parts to be cut a good rule of thumb is holes and slots cannot be smaller than the thickness of the material (laser can get it down to half the thickness but may affect the overall finished product)
  • Radius corners where possible for neater edges, and very tight u turns can get a little messy so avoid where possible.
  • Remove all extra lines and information from the drawing, all our computers need is the cut paths.

 

Marking out bend lines, etched lines and letters etc

When uploading a drawing with bend lines or etching, please ensure these are on different layers. When everything is saved onto one layer our machine sees everything as a cut line. If you cant do this our drafting team will be able to modify your parts to suit. Just shoot an email to cnc@kinselaskustoms.com.au

 

Folding and drilling

When uploading a part with folding or drilling requirements please email us a drawing specifying folded dimensions and angles, hole sizes or which thread you need tapped etc.

 

 FAQ

I have a template I have made how do I get it on the computer to send to you guys?

If you are not confident drawing it yourself, scan the template if it fits in a scanner with a 100mm scale drawn on it for referencing and email it through to us at cnc@kinselaskustoms.com.au with how many you need etc and we will take care of the rest.