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Writer's pictureRio Gutierrez

How to Use CAD Software for CNC Plasma Cutting Design From Concept to Creation


When it comes to CNC plasma cutting, you can either stick to pre-made designs, or you can step up your game by creating your own with CAD software. If you want to push the limits of what your plasma cutting table can do and bring your custom ideas to life, learning how to use CAD software for CNC plasma cutting is essential.


At FastCut CNC, we know that our customers are not only looking for powerful machines–but also the knowledge to make the most out of them. We’re going to walk you through everything you need to know about using CAD software for CNC plasma cutting—from concept to creation.


Ready? Let’s dive in.


Why CAD Software Beats Pre-Made Designs Every Time

We get it—pre-made designs can be super tempting. Fast, convenient, and get the job done without much hassle. But if you’re really into CNC plasma cutting and want to take your skills to the next level, relying on those templates will only get you so far.


Customization

Forget about those cookie-cutter designs that limit your creativity—this is your chance to craft something unique!


Whether you're building a custom gate that impresses a discerning client or perhaps creating a standout metal sign that reflects the rugged character of your shop, well–CAD puts the power in your hands! You'll be designing one-of-a-kind pieces that truly stand out in the marketplace.


Efficiency

Once you get the hang of CAD software, whipping up intricate designs becomes second nature, like an extension of your creativity. This means your workflow gets a serious boost, saving you precious time you'd otherwise waste flipping through catalogs filled with options that just don’t hit the mark.


Plus, instead of settling for less, you can quickly turn your ideas into fully realized digital models. More projects in less time—make your mark without the hassle!


Precision

Picture this: every curve, angle, and line is fine-tuned to match your vision perfectly. This level of detail isn’t just nice to have; it's crucial, especially for CNC plasma cutting, where every millimeter counts.  With CAD, you can ensure that the final product looks exactly how you imagined it, leading to top-notch quality and satisfaction.


Scaling

Got a cool keychain idea that shows off your skills, or maybe you're tackling a hefty industrial component that needs to fit into a complex setup? No sweat! CAD software lets you scale your designs up or down effortlessly without losing any of that important detail or accuracy.


This kind of flexibility is a game-changer for your CNC projects. It also means you can adapt your creations to suit different applications and sizes without sacrificing quality. Being able to tweak dimensions while keeping precision sharp? That’s what makes CAD an essential tool in your creative toolkit.


Popular CNC CAD Software for Your CNC Plasma Cutting Design


We’ve got a lineup of powerful and user-friendly CAD software that’s perfect for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro ready to take your designs to the next level.


TurboCAD Deluxe

The ultimate solution for newcomers like you! It's powerful yet easy to pick up, packed with an impressive array of tools for 2D drafting, 3D surface modeling, and photorealistic rendering. You can also tweak the interface to match your experience level, giving you access to hundreds of drawing, modification, dimensioning, and annotation options.


EnRoute Fabrication

This one’s a real gem! It’s as simple as it is effective and designed to help you create and output files for your cutting table. It features slick drawing tools and lightning-fast vectorizing. Plus, with a massive library of fonts and graphics at your fingertips, crafting those decorative and graphic parts is easier than ever.


ProNest LT

Your ultimate CAD/CAM nesting software that's built tough for light industrial and mechanized cutting in production environments. It’s also your one-stop solution for all your conventional plasma and oxyfuel cutting machines.


DFX Art Package

With over 1500 pre-drawn art files from Elite Arts, you’ve got everything you need right at your fingertips. And whether you're into wildlife, outdoor scenes, vehicles, people, or cool shapes, we've got your back. Perfect for the artisan who wants to make their mark!


Bend-Tec Motorsports CAD Software Package

It's straightforward and intuitive, designed to help you whip up and output files for your cutting table with ease. Plus, with slick drawing tools, lightning-fast vectorizing, and a massive library of fonts and graphics, creating decorative and graphic parts has never been easier!


Shop Data Systems HVAC

Offers different CAD/CAM nesting modules for general fabrication, product manufacturing, HVAC duct-work fabrication, blowpipe contractors and structural steel plate processors. They’re also the exclusive provider of HVAC drafting templates.


Each of these CAD software options comes packed with unique features to meet your specific needs, whether you’re crafting artistic designs or tackling large-scale industrial fabrication. No matter what project you’ve got in mind, FastCut CNC is here to back you up with top-notch software and hands-on support!


Basic Tutorial: Simple Plasma-Cuttable Design in TurboCAD Deluxe


Whether you're new to CAD or a seasoned user, TurboCAD's intuitive interface makes it simple to create detailed designs ready for cutting on your CNC plasma table.


Step 1: Open TurboCAD Deluxe and Set Up Your Workspace

Before starting any design, you’ll want to make sure your workspace is configured for easy use.

  • First, fire up TurboCAD Deluxe and create a new drawing. 

  • Next, choose your interface level—beginner, intermediate, or advanced—whatever feels right for you. 

  • Finally, set the measurement units that fit your project best—usually inches or millimeters if you're working with CNC plasma cutting. Let’s get started!


Step 2: Create Basic Shapes

For an easy plasma-cuttable project, let’s kick things off with some basic shapes like rectangles, circles, and lines.

  • Grab the Rectangle Tool from the toolbar.

  • Click and drag to draw a rectangle in your workspace. This will be the foundation of your design.

  • Use the Circle Tool to add circles inside or around the rectangle for some extra design flair.


Step 3: Modify and Adjust Your Design!

Now that you’ve got your basic shapes down, it’s time to have some fun!

  • Start by selecting the Modify Tool and click on one of your shapes.

  • Use the Drag Handle to resize, rotate, or move it to just where you want it.

  • If you want even more precision, you can adjust the Dimensions by entering exact values for width, height, or radius in the properties window.


Step 4: Let's Add Some Details with Text or Custom Shapes! 

Adding details like text or custom shapes can really take your plasma-cut design from basic to something uniquely yours.

  • Now, grab the Text Tool from the toolbar to sprinkle in some text around your shapes.

  • Just type what you want, and feel free to tweak the font, size, and where it sits.

  • And if you’re in the mood for a custom shape, go ahead and use the Polyline Tool or Spline Tool to create those freehand designs or intricate curves!


Step 5: Get Your Design Ready for CNC Plasma Cutting 

Before you send your design off to the cutting table, you'll need to make sure it’s all set for plasma cutting! 

  • First, double-check that all your shapes are closed. Open paths can mess up your cuts. 

  • Use the Layers tool to assign different layers to various components. This can be super helpful if you want to keep text and shapes on separate layers for cutting orders. 

  • Finally, take a look at the Kerf Compensation and tweak it to fit the width of your plasma cutter’s cutting path.


Step 6: Export Your Design

Now once your design is complete, you’ll need to export it in a file format compatible with your CAM software and FastCut CNC systems.

  • Go to File > Export.

  • Choose DXF or DWG format, as these are standard file formats for CNC plasma cutting.

  • Save the file to your computer, and it’s ready to be imported into your CAM software for toolpath generation and cutting.


Pro Tip: Try Your Hand at Photorealistic Rendering 

TurboCAD Deluxe packs a powerful feature—photorealistic rendering that lets you see exactly how your design will come to life before you even make a cut. Perfect for those custom jobs or projects where you want that sleek, finished look.


Boost Your CNC Plasma Cutting Table Game with CAD Skills

Your plasma cutting table can only do so much—it's the designs you feed into it that unleash its true power.


Tackle Custom Jobs Like a Pro

Yes, don’t back down from those custom design requests! With CAD in your toolkit now, you're armed to meet your clients’ needs with razor-sharp precision and a dash of creativity. Embrace those complex projects and watch your service offerings take flight—clients love a go-getter who can deliver the goods!


Work Smarter, Not Harder

Let’s be real—CAD software is a real game-changer. It helps you crank out designs faster and more accurately than ever before. Imagine knocking out more jobs in less time. After all, time is money, and every second counts when you’re grinding out those projects.


Skyrocket Your Profitability

Want to stand out from the crowd? Offering unique, customized designs is your ticket. Clients are ready to shell out serious cash for something that’s truly one-of-a-kind. So your CAD skills? They’re not just handy--they’re an invaluable asset that sets you apart from the competition.


Start Designing Today with CAD, Choose FastCut CNC

Whether you’re running a fabrication shop or a hobbyist working from your garage, mastering CAD software for CNC plasma cutting will take your projects to the next level. From creating custom metal signs to designing intricate parts, the possibilities are endless once you learn the ropes.


At FastCut CNC, we provide more than just high-quality plasma cutting tables—we offer the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.


Don’t settle for less—cut with the best. Contact Us Today!

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