Revolved cut in Solidworks - Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

A revolved cut removes material by rotating a sketch around an axis. It helps create holes or shapes that are symmetrical around a center line.

When you need to cut a circular groove inside a part.

When creating a hole that follows a curved path around an axis.

When shaping a part with symmetrical features like rings or slots.

When you want to remove material evenly around a center line.

When designing parts like pulleys or knobs with cut features.

Steps

Step 1: Click

- Features tab > Revolved Cut button

The Revolved Cut property manager opens on the right side

💡 Make sure you have a sketch ready before starting the revolved cut

Step 2: Select

- Sketch in the graphics area or FeatureManager design tree

The sketch profile highlights and appears in the property manager

Step 3: Select

- Axis of revolution field in the property manager

The cursor changes to select an edge, axis, or centerline

💡 Choose a straight line or axis that the sketch will revolve around

Step 4: Click

- Edge or centerline in the sketch or model

The axis of revolution is set and shown in the property manager

Step 5: Set

- Angle of revolution field

The preview updates to show the cut shape based on the angle

💡 Use 360 degrees for a full cut around the axis

Step 6: Click

- OK (green checkmark) button

The revolved cut is created and material is removed from the part

Before vs After

Before

A solid cylinder with a sketch of a half-circle profile on one face and a centerline axis

After

The cylinder has a groove cut around its centerline matching the revolved sketch profile

Settings Reference

Direction 1 - Angle

📍 Revolved Cut property manager

Controls how far the sketch revolves to cut material

Default: 360 degrees

Axis of Revolution

📍 Revolved Cut property manager

Defines the line around which the sketch rotates

Default: None

Flip Side to Cut

📍 Revolved Cut property manager

Changes which side of the sketch profile is cut

Default: Unchecked

Common Mistakes

Selecting a sketch without a closed profile

The revolved cut requires a closed shape to remove material properly

Ensure the sketch profile is fully closed before using revolved cut

Choosing an axis that is not straight or not in the sketch

The axis must be a straight line to revolve the sketch correctly

Select a straight edge, axis, or centerline as the axis of revolution

Setting the angle less than needed without previewing

The cut may be incomplete or not as expected

Use the preview to check the cut and set the angle to 360 degrees for full revolution if needed

Summary

Revolved cut removes material by rotating a closed sketch around a straight axis.

It is useful for creating symmetrical cuts like grooves or holes around a centerline.

Always use a closed sketch and a straight axis for correct results.