Free online SCAD to DXF converter

Laser cutters, CNC systems, and CAD programs often require editable 2D DXF geometry instead of OpenSCAD source code. Converting a SCAD model produces a view or section that can be edited, shared, or sent to manufacturing software without requiring OpenSCAD.

For a no-install option, 101convert.com can convert supported files online for free.

What the SCAD format is

SCAD is the script-based source format used by OpenSCAD. Its code defines primitives, Boolean operations, transformations, modules, variables, and imported geometry. It is common in parametric 3D-printing projects and configurable parts such as enclosures, brackets, and fixtures.

A SCAD file is source code rather than a universal finished solid. It may depend on include or use files, imported meshes, variables, and custom modules, so OpenSCAD must evaluate the file before another CAD application can use its geometry.

What the DXF format is

DXF, or Drawing Exchange Format, is a CAD interchange format supported by applications such as AutoCAD, FreeCAD, LibreCAD, DraftSight, CAM software, laser cutters, plasma cutters, and sign-making systems. It commonly stores 2D lines, polylines, arcs, circles, and closed profiles.

DXF is appropriate when the recipient needs editable vector geometry rather than OpenSCAD parameters and source code. It does not preserve the SCAD file's modules, variables, Boolean history, or 3D solid.

Convert a 3D SCAD model to DXF

1. Open the SCAD file in OpenSCAD and make sure every referenced file is available.
2. Decide which profile to export. OpenSCAD projects geometry onto the XY plane, so rotate or translate the model if the required profile or section has a different orientation or position.
3. Wrap the geometry in projection(). Use projection(cut = false) for the object's orthographic silhouette, or projection(cut = true) for the intersection with the XY plane at z = 0.
4. If the model is generated by a module called part(), create a separate export file containing projection(cut = false) part();. If the source has top-level geometry, place that geometry inside the projection expression or create a wrapper module.
5. Press F6 to render the result, then select File → Export → Export as DXF and save the file with a .dxf extension.
6. Open the DXF in the destination CAD or CAM application and check its scale, orientation, contour closure, and dimensions before cutting or machining.

OpenSCAD can also export from a terminal after the projection code has been saved in the input file:

openscad -o part.dxf part_projection.scad

For a side or front profile, rotate the model before projection(), or create a separate wrapper for each required orientation. Export each profile as a separate DXF file.

Convert a 2D SCAD design

If the SCAD source already generates only 2D geometry, such as polygons, squares, or circles, a projection is usually unnecessary. Open the file, render it if required, and select File → Export → Export as DXF.

Quality and compatibility limits

• DXF is normally a 2D result. The conversion does not retain the original 3D model, parametric controls, modules, or construction history.
• projection(cut = false) creates an orthographic outline. projection(cut = true) creates a cross-section at z = 0; move the model so the intended cutting plane is there.
• OpenSCAD approximates curved surfaces with facets. Increase $fn, or reduce $fa and $fs, when a smoother outline is needed. Higher resolution produces more DXF entities and larger files.
• Imported STL and other faceted meshes remain faceted in the projection. Precision cutting may require contour simplification or redrawing in a CAD editor.
• OpenSCAD coordinates are in millimetres. Confirm the import unit setting because some DXF applications apply document-specific units or interpret unitless coordinates differently.
• DXF support differs between applications and DXF versions. If the target system rejects splines or complex entities, convert the result to lines or polylines in a CAD editor and verify that manufacturing contours are closed, non-self-intersecting, and free of duplicate segments.