How to Create DFX Files in SolidWorks?

SolidWorks 3D CAD Software has many strengths as a 3D CAD program, one of which is its ability to interface with various systems.  One such method is the generation of *.DXF files used by suppliers to cut complex shapes.

For instance, take the example of an oddly shaped plate as shown in Figure 1:, one of which is its ability to interface with various systems.  One such method is the generation of *.DXF files used by suppliers to cut complex shapes.

(Figure 1:)

In order to fabricate this plate, typically a supplier would request a *DXF file.  In order to create a *.DXF file we must first orient our view normal to the cut face as shown in Figure 2:

Figure 2:

Right-click the cut face and select “Export to DXF/DWG” as shown in Figure 3:

Figure 3:

Save the file under any name as shown in Figure 4:

Figure 4:

A feature box will appear called “DXF/DWG Output”.  This menu will allow you to edit the exporting entities (the cut face is per-selected).  It also allows you to adjust the output alignment which represents the origin as well as the orientation of the respective X and Y axis as shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5:

 Once you as satisfied with the alignment, a pop-up box will appear where you may save the final output as shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6:

How to create custom weldments?

Creating Custom SolidWorks Weldments

Not all weldments are created equally.  The standard library is a good starting point, however some profiles may not be properly dimensioned and some profiles that you need might not exist in the library.  This tutorial will show you how to create your own custom profile and insert it into the SolidWorks Library.

Suppose you need a weldment in the shape of a hexagon.  Your first step is to sketch the profile (as per below Figure 1). Please bear in mind that the origin will be the default point of extrusion for the weldment. 

 Figure 1:

Once you are satisfied with your sketch, select the sketch from the feature manager design tree, go to File > Save As.  Under “Save as type” select “Lib Feat Part”, give it a file name and save (as per Figure 2). The next step is to find your weldment profile library.  This can be done by going to Tools > Options.  Under the System Options Tab, select “File Locations”.  Under “Show folders for”, scroll down to “Weldment Profiles” and note the folder location as shown.

Figure 2:

Place a copy of the custom weldment profile into the Weldment Profiles location (as per Figure 3). 

Figure 3:

**Important** Maintain the file structure or create a new one since SolidWorks uses these file structures to designate their drop down boxes.  For example a standard profile library would look as follows:

…\weldment profiles\iso\angle\ [Weldment profile file]

You may insert your profile under the same file structure, in this case we have created (as per figure 4):

…\weldment profiles\Custom Profiles\Special 1\ [Weldment profile file]

Figure 4:

Once you have placed your custom weldment profile in place you will be able to use it like any other weldment profile (as per figure 5).

Figure 5:

Enhanced Turbulence Modeling in SolidWorks Flow Simulation

SolidWorks® Flow Simulation is a powerful, intelligent, and easy-to-use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) program that facilitates the work of product engineers who use SolidWorks 3D CAD software for 3D design creation. This paper details the approach and theory behind turbulence modeling as used in SolidWorks Flow Simulation to simulate complex industrial turbulent flows with heat and mass transfer.

Download the Whitepaper to learn more:

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