When we began developing steel it, our vision was clear: to enable fast, accurate, and automated processing of 3D data for sheet metal quoting. From the start, our focus was on the STEP format — the industry standard for exchanging 3D CAD data.

The reasoning seemed obvious: 2D drawings were increasingly seen as outdated. More and more customers and suppliers were switching to 3D — understandably so, since 3D offers clear advantages in terms of information density and automation potential.

Reality Check: 2D Isn’t Dead (Yet)

But real-world experience has proven us wrong. In recent months, one thing became clear: 2D is still very much alive — and thriving. Especially the DXF and DWG formats remain widely used, particularly for laser-cut parts and simple sheet metal components. Many customers — especially small and medium-sized businesses — continue to rely on 2D data. Whether out of habit, system limitations, or because their part complexity doesn’t justify switching to 3D, 2D is still part of daily business.

For us, this meant one thing: if we want steel it to grow into a truly comprehensive solution for sheet metal quoting, we can’t ignore 2D.

New Feature: Automatic DXF and DWG Processing

That’s why we’ve spent the last few months expanding our geometry engine: steel it now automatically processes DXF and DWG files — just as quickly and reliably as it already does with STEP files.

What does that mean for you?

• Automatic detection and analysis of both 2D and 3D geometries
• Interpretation of sheet outlines including cutouts, engravings, and embossings
• Calculation of material usage and cut lengths
• Quote-ready data output — without any manual prep work

Whether 2D or 3D — steel it now gives you the best of both worlds. And it all happens with zero additional effort in your day-to-day workflow.

Our Conclusion: 2D Isn’t Dead — and We’re Ready for It

With the new support for DXF and DWG files, steel it is now even more versatile and ready for day-to-day use — even in shops that haven’t yet made the switch to 3D. We’re building a bridge between tradition and the future — and bringing automation where it’s needed most.