Broken part, no CAD file: what happens next

Have a worn or broken part without a drawing? Start with photographs and a description of its work. We assess available information, the reconstruction scope and what needs checking on the original. A model can be created during the job.

You don't need a file. Really

You do not need CAD for an initial enquiry. A missing file does not rule out assessment, but breakage and wear may remove information needed for reconstruction. Photographs alone cannot reconstruct every part.

Prepare what you have:

1. 1.
   Photographs from several sides and the mounting side, with a ruler in view. They help assess size and scope; perspective means they do not replace measurement of critical dimensions.
2. 2.
   The original, even broken or incomplete. Agree shipping after the initial assessment; you do not need to send the part to ask the first question.
3. 3.
   Measured critical dimensions, a drawing or a mating part. Give diameters, spacing, measurement datums and required fits when known.
4. 4.
   A photograph of the assembly and a description of loading, temperature and the failure. Add quantity, required date and whether you need a file, print or both.

When a caliper is sufficient and when a scanner is needed

A simple plate, sleeve or spacer can often be reconstructed from dimensions. Select the measurement method for geometry, access and requirements. Consider scanning for free-form surfaces, housings and complex shapes; do not assume it will always be cheaper or more accurate than manual measurement.

For EinScan Rigil, the manufacturer specifies Laser HD volumetric accuracy up to 0.04 mm + 0.06 mm/m and a finest resolution setting of 0.05 mm. These describe the device, not finished-part tolerance. See the scan accuracy guide for surface and scope limits, and our equipment for the scanner.

A scan is not yet a model

A mesh records accessible surfaces in their current condition, including wear and damage. It can be edited but does not contain the dimensions or operation history of parametric CAD. Copying an uncorrected mesh may also copy the damage.

Reconstruction uses scanning, measurements, documentation and mating parts. Dimensions lost to wear and original tolerances do not appear automatically. We agree assumptions and create a parametric model where possible.

A failure description helps assess the part's function. Changing thickness or shape requires checking assembly and loading; a thicker part alone does not guarantee an improvement.

What cannot be deciphered

Agree limitations before work:

• —
  A missing dimension with no evidence. Surviving geometry, a drawing or a mating part may help; a guess is not a measurement.
• —
  Original tolerances and fits from a scan alone. Agree requirements before modelling and check the trial in its intended assembly.
• —
  Original material composition. We do not perform composition analysis; working conditions help select a replacement material.
• —
  Closed interiors and surfaces without optical access. Gloss and transparency may require spray; black colour alone does not determine its use. We agree preparation with the owner.

A trial piece is included in the standard scope

For a reconstructed part, we first print one trial piece for fitting. Check agreed assumptions in the assembly; adjustment after the trial is included in the reverse-engineering path. Agree critical areas and how to communicate trial results before work.

The model commissioned by you is yours. Repeat printing without a file-preparation charge requires the same available model. We confirm preparation scope with the next quote; retain your own copy.

How long does it take and what about the files

We respond within 24 business hours. Geometry reconstruction and printing are quoted separately; agree scope and timing before work. A simple part may take hours of work, a housing with fits several business days.

Photographs, scans and files remain in private storage for a 90-day access period from the enquiry. After access expires, they await removal through housekeeping. We can sign a confidentiality agreement before files are sent.

See business reconstruction, replacement-part applications and rights concerning reconstructed parts. You can also order a scan, CAD model or report separately on the 3D scanning page.

Send photographs and describe the part. Include dimensions, quantity and requirements; we assess the data before agreeing the scope.