While metal cutting is rugged and physical work that involves a lot of machines, digital elements have completely transformed metal fabrication capabilities. By using digital files, machines can work with all forms of metal to create custom pieces that come out in the exact size and design you seek.



When you want to collaborate with a metal fabrication company, you will often associate with two main file formats. The formats are DXF and DRW. Learn exactly what those formats mean, what software uses those formats, and how online projects can help you access the files.

What Does DXF Stand For?

A DXF file stands for a "Drawing Exchange Format" and is essentially a type of image file designed to work with drawing software. The file is used almost exclusively in CAD software and can hold data for both 2D and 3D plans.



For example, if you have a metal fabrication project, the 3D elements of the file will show how thick the metal should be and how deep the cuts should go into the metal. The DXF file was developed for compatibility with a majority of CAD software. This gives you a lot of flexibility when working with metal shops and ensuring your project comes out accurately.

What Does DRW Stand For?

In the 1990s, the software CorelDRAW was used for design and CAD files. The software used an exclusive file format known as DRW and stands for a CorelDRAW file. While not used as much anymore, metal fabricators will still accept the file format and use it for their projects. The file format is accepted in many Microsoft-based design applications.

If you have older projects or older software, you may come across the DRW file more often. File conversion software and programs also offer the opportunity to transfer DRW files to more standard DXF files as well. 

What projects use the DXF and DRW files?

Many types of metal fabrication projects rely on DXF and DRW files. When you have those files, a metal company will often use them with laser cutting machines. The laser machines read the files and cut precise patterns directly into the metal. A 2D cutting machine will cut straight through the metal to create letters, images, and specific shapes.

Plasma cutting machines offer similar services and can cut into many types of metal thicknesses. The DXF and DRW files are sent directly to a metal fabrication company and uploaded into a machine. You do not need to worry about printing out plans or dropping off USB drives with files on them.



Project types vary from business office designs to home decor. A metal shop can also create custom parts with DXF and DRW files. The precise directions in the design files will ensure the parts fit correctly with the application they are used for.

How Can I Access DXF and DRW Files Online?

Even without any CAD or metal design experience, you have the opportunity to get access to DXF and DRW files online. Third-party sellers may sell custom designs online. With a purchase, you will receive a digital file download that you can forward directly to the metal shop. The purchase often includes copyright clearance to use and manipulate the files as you please.

Free databases online may also include large collections of DXF and DRW files. The variety of files allows you to find exactly what you are looking for and get your own custom metal pieces based on the professional designs of others. If you own CAD software, you can download the base file and make some custom changes to fit your needs.

Find out how we work with DXF and DRW files at Schorr Metals Inc. We will guide you through the process and have the fabrication completed in a timely manner. Send your projects to us via email, and we look forward to working on them with you.