Yes, you can upload a STEP file for a machining quote. At Wexmar, uploading a STEP or PDF file to the instant quote tool returns a preliminary price range with a live 3D view of the part, and a human estimator confirms the price before it is firm.
STEP is the standard neutral format for sharing 3D solid models between CAD and CAM systems, which makes it the natural file to upload for a CNC machining quote. This page explains how to export a clean STEP file, what happens after you upload it, and why a drawing is still useful.
How to upload a STEP file for a quote at Wexmar
- Step 1. Export the part from your CAD system as a STEP file (.step or .stp).
- Step 2. Go to the instant quote page and upload the STEP file. Add a PDF drawing if you have one.
- Step 3. The AI estimator reads the geometry and returns a preliminary price range.
- Step 4. A live 3D view of the part appears so you can confirm the correct model was read.
- Step 5. A Wexmar estimator reviews the part, contacts you if anything is unclear, and issues the firm price.
How to export a clean STEP file
| Setting | Recommendation | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Protocol | AP214 or AP242 where available, AP203 is also widely readable | Newer protocols carry more data and read reliably |
| Body type | Solid body | Surface-only exports can be hard to program and estimate |
| Scope | Single part, not full assembly | Avoids quoting the wrong component |
| Units | Match the drawing and state them | Prevents parts arriving at the wrong scale |
| File name | Part number and revision | Ties the model to the correct drawing |
| Features | Model threads as cosmetic, call out on drawing | Thread specs do not transfer reliably in STEP |
Most CAD systems include a STEP export under Save As or Export. If your system offers a choice of protocol, the newer options are generally preferred.
Why upload a STEP file and not only a PDF?
A STEP file gives the estimator exact geometry. Volume, stock size, pocket depths, and feature counts can be measured directly, which improves the accuracy of the preliminary range. It also shortens programming once an order is placed, because the CAM programmer starts from the model instead of rebuilding geometry from a drawing.
Why a PDF drawing still matters
A STEP file usually does not carry tolerances, GD&T, surface finish callouts, thread classes, material, or notes. Those live on the drawing, and they often drive the price and the process. For parts with fits, bearing bores, threads, or tight positional tolerances, upload both files. The drawing is the controlling document for inspection. More on file formats is in our engineering guides.
What happens after your STEP upload
The estimator decides which equipment will make the part. Round parts go to our ten CNC lathes with live tooling and Y-axis. Prismatic parts go to our six horizontal machining centers for 3- and 4-axis CNC milling. Small-diameter parts up to 32 mm may go to our four Maier Swiss machines. The estimator then confirms material, finish routing through qualified outside processors where needed, inspection requirements, and lead time.
If your model is in another format
If your CAD system produces IGES, Parasolid, or a native file, export a STEP file if the option exists, because STEP is the format the instant tool accepts. If you cannot export STEP, email the file you have to ron@backwell.com along with a PDF drawing, and an estimator will review it. Avoid converting STL or other mesh files to STEP, because the converted model remains faceted and does not represent true arcs and cylinders.
Common STEP file problems
- Wrong units. A millimeter model read as inches, or the reverse.
- Assembly exported. Multiple bodies make it unclear which part is being quoted.
- Surfaces instead of solids. Gaps in the model prevent accurate volume calculations.
- Outdated revision. The model does not match the current drawing.
- Mesh conversion. An STL converted to STEP remains faceted and is not suited to machining.
STEP upload checklist
- Single part exported as a solid STEP file
- Units confirmed
- File named with part number and revision
- PDF drawing ready at the same revision
- Material, quantity, and finish decided
- 3D view checked after upload
Getting a quote
When your STEP file is ready, upload a drawing for an instant estimate. The AI estimator returns a preliminary range and 3D view, and a Wexmar estimator confirms the price before it is firm. For large multi-part packages, email ron@backwell.com or call (315) 400-2654.