Preparing Files for Laser: Ensuring Your Project Success
The quality of a laser-cut or engraved object does not begin at the machine, but in the graphic software. A precisely prepared file is the fundamental prerequisite for a result that exactly matches your vision and optimizes production time in our Vienna workshop. In this guide, we explain in detail how to prepare your data for our CO2 and Fiber laser systems to ensure seamless execution and professional precision.
Vector vs. Raster: Why Vectors are Essential
For laser cutting, only vector files are suitable. Unlike raster graphics (such as JPG or PNG), which consist of pixels, vectors are based on mathematical paths. The laser requires an exact path to follow as a line. A pixel image, by contrast, would be interpreted by the laser as a surface (resulting in an engraving) or would need to be laboriously vectorized.
We recommend formats such as .SVG, .DXF, or .AI. If you only have an image, we offer professional vectorization as part of our Layout Design service to keep edges smooth and dimensions precise. This prevents unsightly "staircase" effects on the edges of your workpieces.
Color Code Logic: Separating Cutting from Engraving
Our machines distinguish between cutting and engraving based on line color or line thickness. To avoid misunderstandings, we use a standardized color scheme in our workshop. When creating your design, please assign the following colors:
- Red (RGB 255, 0, 0): Defined cutting path. The laser cuts completely through the material.
- Black (RGB 0, 0, 0): Engraving area. The laser removes the surface without cutting through.
- Blue (RGB 0, 0, 255): Marking or light scoring for assembly aids.
Ensure that all lines are "closed." An open path means the part will not fall out of the material sheet (e.g., an A3 sheet of plywood), leading to wasted material and production delays.
Avoiding Line Thickness and Overlaps
A common error is the use of thick lines or double lines. For laser cutting, the line thickness must be set to "Hairline" or 0.001 mm. If the line is too thick, the software may recognize it as a surface and attempt to engrave the line instead of cutting it.
Overlapping paths are particularly critical. If two lines lie directly on top of each other, the laser traces the same spot twice. This leads to excessive heat buildup, which causes melting edges in acrylic and heavy burn marks in wood. Carefully check your layout for redundant paths.
| Criterion | Requirement | Status |
|---|---|---|
| File Format | .svg, .dxf, .ai or .pdf (Vector) | Check |
| Line Thickness | Hairline / 0.001 mm for cutting | Check |
| Color Separation | Red = Cut / Black = Engrave | Check |
| Path Status | All contours fully closed | Check |
| Scale | 1:1 Original size (mm) | Check |
Dimensional Accuracy and Material Considerations
In our Vienna facility, we work with high precision, yet every laser has a so-called "Kerf"—the width of the material that is vaporized by the laser beam. Depending on the material (plywood, acrylic, leather), this loss is approximately 0.1 to 0.3 mm. If you are designing parts that must fit exactly into one another (e.g., interlocking joints), you should account for this in your planning.
Our maximum working area is 900 x 600 mm. Plan your parts so they can be placed efficiently on the material. This reduces waste and keeps costs low. For more information on choosing the right material for your project, please see our guide Choosing the Right Material.
Converting Text to Paths
If your design contains text, it must be converted to "curves" or "paths." If you send a file where the font is still editable and we do not have that specific font installed on our systems, the software will replace the text with a standard font. This alters the entire appearance of your product.
In programs like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape, use the "Convert to Outlines" or "Path to Curves" function. This is the only way to guarantee that every letter is cut exactly as you designed it.
Local Standards and Collaboration in Vienna
As a local service provider in Vienna, we value transparent communication. We understand that not every customer is a professional in graphic software. Therefore, we check every submitted file before starting production. Should there be errors in the file preparation, we will contact you immediately.
To avoid delays, please send your files digitally via email. Since we have a minimum order value of 25 €, it is often beneficial to combine several small motifs into one file. This optimizes material usage and reduces the machine setup time.