Extruded cut in Solidworks - Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

An extruded cut removes material from a 3D part by pushing a 2D sketch shape into the model. This helps create holes, slots, or other cut features to shape your design.

When you need to create a hole through a solid block for a bolt or screw.

When you want to cut a slot or groove into a part for assembly.

When you need to remove material to reduce weight without changing the outer shape.

When designing parts that require openings for wiring or fluid flow.

When modifying a solid model by subtracting specific shapes.

Steps

Step 1: Click

- Features tab > Extruded Cut button

The Extruded Cut property manager opens on the right side of the screen

Step 2: Select

- A planar face or plane in the graphics area

A new sketch is created on the selected face or plane

Step 3: Draw

- Sketch tools (e.g., rectangle, circle) in the Sketch tab

A 2D shape appears on the sketch plane representing the cut area

Step 4: Click

- Features tab > Extruded Cut button again if needed

The sketch is ready to be extruded as a cut

Step 5: Set

- Direction and depth options in the Extruded Cut property manager

The preview shows the cut shape penetrating the solid model

Step 6: Click

- OK (green checkmark) in the property manager

The material inside the sketch shape is removed from the 3D model

Before vs After

Before

A solid rectangular block with no holes or cuts

After

The block has a circular hole cut through it where the sketch was extruded

Settings Reference

Direction

📍 Extruded Cut property manager

Controls the direction(s) in which the cut is extruded

Default: One Direction

Depth

📍 Extruded Cut property manager

Defines how far the cut extends into the model

Default: Blind (specific depth)

Flip Side to Cut

📍 Extruded Cut property manager

Changes which side of the sketch is removed

Default: Unchecked

Common Mistakes

Not selecting a face or plane before starting the sketch

The sketch will not be placed correctly, causing errors or unexpected cut locations

Always select a planar face or plane before creating the sketch for the cut

Setting the cut depth too shallow or too deep

The cut may not fully remove material or may cut through unintended areas

Use preview and appropriate depth options like 'Through All' to ensure correct cut length

Summary

Extruded cut removes material by pushing a 2D sketch shape into a 3D model.

You must create a sketch on a face or plane before defining the cut.

Set direction and depth carefully to control the cut size and location.