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Drilling

Mount holes, pilot holes, repeat-pattern arrays — drilled on the CNC in the same setup as the cut, so every hole lands exactly where the file says.

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About Drilling

Drilling is the most-requested add-on at CutPro. Most cut parts need to mount to something — a sign needs to fit to a wall bracket; a panel needs to fix to a frame; a marina screen needs to bolt through to mounts. Doing the drilling on the CNC alongside the cut means every hole lands within the same setup, every part matches the next, and you don't have to lay out and drill on site.

We drill mount-hole arrays, pilot holes for screws and rivets, repeat-pattern hole arrays for things like LED matrices and ventilation grilles, and through-holes for cable runs and service penetrations. For standard hole sizes the CNC bit cuts directly; for larger or threaded holes we use the right tooling for the job (see the Tapping add-on for threaded holes specifically).

For your file, put drill holes on a separate layer in the DXF labelled DRILL-XMM (where X is the diameter you want). One point per hole, at the centre of where the hole should be. If you want different sizes, use separate layers per diameter — DRILL-5MM, DRILL-8MM, DRILL-12MM. We'll machine each layer with the appropriate tool.

The boundary with tapping: drilling makes a clean clearance hole. Tapping cuts threads into the hole so a screw can engage. Most cabinet and signage mount work uses through-bolts and clearance holes — straight drilling. Threaded inserts and machined fasteners use tapping.

Good for

  • Mount-hole arrays for signs, panels, brackets, fittings
  • Pilot holes for screws and rivets in cabinetry and shop-fit
  • Repeat-pattern hole arrays — LED matrices, vent grilles, perforation patterns
  • Cable and service penetrations through panels
  • Pre-drilled cleat backers and marina fittings

Not for

  • Threaded holes — use the Tapping add-on instead
  • Countersunk flush-screw holes — use the Countersinking add-on
  • Holes that need to register against features cut later (consult first)
See all 10 add-ons Browse the confirmed material list →

Drilling — common questions

How do I specify hole sizes in my file?
Separate layer per hole diameter, labelled DRILL-XMM (e.g. DRILL-5MM, DRILL-8MM). One point per hole at the hole centre. We'll tool-up to the diameter you specify.
Can you drill into metal as well as plastic and timber?
Yes for the sheet stock we run as standard — ACM, acrylic, polycarbonate, MDF, ply and timber. Solid aluminium and other metals are sourced and cut by review — tell us the substrate on the enquiry so we can quote against the right tooling.
What file types can I send?
DXF is the cleanest — that's a single-line vector format the cutter reads directly. AI, SVG, PDF, EPS and DWG all work too. If you've only got a JPG or a sketch on paper, send it anyway and we'll tidy it for you (small file-prep charge applies).
How should I prepare a DXF?
Outlines only, no fills. One closed path per cut. Different operations (cut, engrave, drill) on different layers so we know what gets which tool. Convert text to outlines before exporting so we don't have to chase the same font. If anything's ambiguous, write it in the file name or add a note in the quote request.
How quick is a quote?
Most quote requests reviewed within 1 business day. Simple trade jobs may be quoted faster during business hours (Mon–Fri 8am–4pm AEST). Complex, review-required, or unusual jobs may take longer. We'll tell you up front if so.

Related

File-prep rules · How to prepare your artwork for cutting

Ready to quote drilling?

Quote back, usually within 1 business day. No card needed.

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