An NC file is a data file containing numerical control instructions for directing a CNC machine tool for automated drilling, marking and cutting.

Parabuild can create NC files in DXF or DSTV formats.

DXF Files

DXF files are meant for plate table machines (laser, plasma, jet) that only have 2D capacity.

These DXF files can optionally contain contours of the main part and parts that might need to be welded to the main part

Generating DXF Files in Parabuild

Before generating the DXF Files, you should review and/or modify the DXF Settings – these are accessed from: Sheets manager > Settings > General > DXF Settings. Once done, these settings may be saved as the default for the entire project meaning they only have to be set once.

To generate the DXF files, open the Sheets Manager, click on the Generate button and select Generate DXF files. You will then have the option to lock the revision using the Revision Manager or to continue without locking.

You then have the option to apply Filters to: Structural Parts and to a specific Selection, Phase, or Revision.

In addition, you can Configure the DXF file names and review the DXF Settings

Pressing OK will automatically generate the DXF files, which will be stored in the same folder and location of the 3D DWG file.

Dstv Files

Dstv NC files can be read by most cutting- and drilling CNC machines. Also some plate machines (laser, plasma) can read DSTV files.

Dstv files are text files in ASCI format. It’s an industrial standard defined by the German Steel Construction Association (Deutsche Stahlbau-Verband).

Generating Dstv Files in Parabuild

Before generating the Dstv NC Files, you should review and/or modify the Dstv NC Settings – these are accessed from: Sheets manager > Settings > General > Dstv NC Settings. Once done, these settings may be saved as the default for the entire project meaning they only have to be set once.

To generate the Dstv NC files, open the Sheets Manager, click on the Generate button and select Generate Dstv NC files. You will then have the option to lock the revision using the Revision Manager or to continue without locking.

You then have the option to apply Filters to: Structural Parts and to a specific Selection, Phase, or Revision. In addition, you can review the Dstv NC Settings.

Pressing OK will automatically generate the Dstv NC files, which will be stored in the same folder and location of the 3D DWG file.

STEP Files

STEP file is a CAD file format, usually used to share 3D models between users with different CAD systems.

The step file is often needed for CNC machines that can automatically cope (plasma/laser) hollow profiles.

The number of parts to be produced is added to the name of the file : "PR5 x 6.stp"

Note! At the time of writing this command will only work in BricsCAD and when the Communicator module is installed and licensed.

Generating STEP Files in Parabuild

To generate the STEP files, open the Sheets Manager, click on the Generate button and select Generate STEP files. You will then have the option to lock the revision using the Revision Manager or to continue without locking.

You then have the option to apply Filters to: Structural Parts and to a specific Selection, Phase, or Revision.

Pressing OK will automatically generate the STEP files, which will be stored in the same folder and location of the 3D DWG file.

This tool will generate a STEP file for each position number in the drawing.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top
Scroll to Top