3 ways to create CAD files for CNC metal parts copy machining

2023-07-19

The legacy part can be any component that has passed its glory days and is therefore no longer newly manufactured. For years, these parts have been difficult to replace and have forced owners to preemptively spend thousands of dollars on new machines.

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Thankfully, recreating these parts is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to advances in 3D manufacturing technology; Here are a few ways to create old part manufacturable CAD files:
High-resolution 3D scanning:

High-resolution 3D scanning is the easiest way to create digital 3D CAD files of physical real-world objects. 3D scanning produces highly detailed, precise 3D meshes at a relatively economical price, making it ideal for product applications that require precise fit and functionality.

In some cases, the grid can be printed as is; Otherwise, 3D Designer can optimize the file to make it ready for 3D Printing. Optimizations can range from touching models (closing small gaps, rounded corners, hollowing out voids that the scanner may miss, etc.) to reverse engineering meshes into solid parametric CAD files. The degree of file repair required depends on the complexity of the part and the intended functionality.

While 3D scanning isn't suitable for every project, it's great for projects that require exact reproduction, as well as projects that may be difficult to resolve with manual reverse engineering.
Reverse engineering

View the part and recreate it. Reverse engineering is when a trained designer or engineer creates a technical drawing of a part, which is then used to generate a 3D CAD file.

This method of CAD file creation requires a complete existing part that can be measured using the available tools. Dimensioning and the designer will recreate the part within the necessary tolerances. The end result is a manufacturable 3D CAD file and dimensional drawings of the part.

Reverse engineering works best with smaller mechanical components such as gears, brackets, and housings. All reverse engineering requires physical access to the part; Whether to ship on-site measurements or measured parts.
Draw conversions

Creating CAD files from dimensional drawings is very simple. It's a lot like reverse engineering, but all measurements are documented.

If the customer needs a 3D CAD file and already has a dimensional drawing or DWG file, the designer will simply draw a 3D CAD version of the drawing based on these dimensions.

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