Preparing CAD Files for CNC Hot Wire Cutting
Poor CAD files are the most common cause of import problems in styroCAM. What really matters.
Quality Starts in the CAD File
Many problems in CNC hot wire cutting do not originate at the machine - they originate in the CAD file. Open contours, duplicate lines, wrong units or too many control points cause import errors in styroCAM or poor cut results. Preparing the CAD file correctly saves time and prevents scrap.
Rule 1: Closed Contours
The most important rule: all contours must be completely closed. No gap, no open end. The hot wire cuts along the contour - if the contour is not closed, the software does not know where to stop. Even a gap of 0.1 mm can lead to import errors. All good CAD programs have a function for checking and closing open contours.
Typical CAD Errors and How to Avoid Them
- Open contours - check and close before export
- Duplicate lines - remove overlapping lines
- Wrong units - always export in millimetres
- Too many control points on curves - simplify the file
- Splines instead of lines and arcs - convert to polygons
- Text not converted to curves - styroCAM cannot read fonts
DXF files must always be exported in millimetres. If a file is exported in centimetres or inches and styroCAM expects millimetres, all dimensions are off by a factor of 10 or 25.4. This is one of the most common mistakes among new users.
Frequently Asked Questions
The key questions and answers on this topic.
Why does the DXF import in styroCAM fail?
The most common reason: open contours in the CAD file. All contours must be completely closed. Other causes: wrong units, duplicate lines or too many control points.
Which CAD programs work well with styroCAM?
All programs that export clean DXF files: AutoCAD, Corel Draw, Inkscape, LibreCAD, Fusion 360. What matters is not the program but the quality of the exported DXF file.
How do I convert text for the hot wire?
Text must be converted to curves before being exported as DXF. styroCAM cannot read fonts - only geometric contours.
Solving Import Problems
We help with DXF import problems and CAD preparation - directly and in a practical way.
Related Knowledge
Related articles from our practical knowledge on this topic.
Consulting
personal and
professiona
Testing
Experience our
machines live
Planning
Customized solutions
for your production.
Support
there for you even
after your purchase