Reverse Engineering — Frequently Asked Questions

What should I send to get started?

Ideally the physical part — worn or broken is fine. If shipping the part is impractical, send clear photos from several angles with one known reference dimension (a caliper or ruler in shot helps). Tell us what equipment it comes from, what it does, and what it mates with.

See the full process: RE from a sample · RE without a drawing

How long does the whole process take?

Quote within 24 hours of seeing the part or photos. CAD reconstruction 2–5 days. Manufacture after your approval 5–15 working days depending on complexity. Express turnaround for breakdown situations — tell us your deadline and we assess honestly whether we can hit it.

Can you work from a 3D scan or CAD file I already have?

Yes. If you have a scan (point cloud, mesh, STL) we convert it to a manufacturable parametric model. If you already have a STEP file, we go straight to quoting manufacture. Partial or imperfect data is fine — we fill the gaps. See 3D scanning RE.

How much does reverse engineering cost?

CAD reconstruction is free with a manufacturing order. The part price depends on geometry, material and quantity — a simple turned bushing may be tens of dollars; a complex gear or impeller more. There are no setup or tooling fees on machined parts. The quote is free and without obligation.

Who owns the CAD file after reverse engineering?

You do. The reconstructed STEP/IGES model and drawing are included free with your order, and you are free to keep them, modify them, or have parts made elsewhere. We keep a copy on file so reorders are instant, but there is no lock-in.

Do you sign NDAs for reverse engineering projects?

Yes. We routinely sign NDAs for product development and reverse engineering work. Your parts, drawings and project details are not shared, published, or used as marketing material without written permission.

How accurate is the reproduction?

Critical features (bearing journals, bores, mating faces) are held to ±0.02–0.05 mm, matched to the assembly's needs. General dimensions ±0.05–0.1 mm. Threads gauged to the matched standard. Gear teeth reproduced to the original module and pressure angle. Every part ships with an inspection report against the approved CAD.

What if the reproduced part doesn't fit?

Every part is inspected against the approved CAD before shipping — and that CAD was confirmed by you. If a part is out of tolerance against the approved drawing, we remake it at our cost. If the approved geometry itself was wrong — usually because of an inference made without the original — we work with you on a corrected version at reduced cost.

Can you improve the part rather than just copy it?

Yes, and it is often worth doing. At the CAD review stage you can specify: harder or more corrosion-resistant material, larger fillets where the original cracked, hardened or coated wear surfaces, tighter tolerances on critical fits. Reproducing exactly is the default; upgrading is your option. See obsolete part RE for common upgrade patterns.

Is it legal to reverse engineer a part?

Reproducing a mechanical part for your own repair and maintenance purposes is generally lawful in most jurisdictions. We manufacture compatible replacements to the form, fit and function of the part you supply.

What we do not do: copy patented mechanisms where a patent is identified, reproduce branded logos or trade dress, or imply any affiliation with the original manufacturer. If you believe a part may be covered by an active patent, tell us and we will assess before quoting.