REVERSE ENGINEERING SERVICES
Reverse Engineering Services That Deliver Manufacturing-Ready CAD Files
From legacy parts with no drawings to complex assemblies that need exact CAD models, Tangent Solutions converts 3D scan data into fully parametric STEP, IGES, and XT files. Accurate to 0.02mm. Results your CNC machine or design team can use immediately.
WHY TANGENT SOLUTIONS
Built for Engineers Who Need It Done Right the First Time
Reverse engineering is where precision either pays off or costs you. A part that measures off by a tenth of a millimeter in CAD can mean a scrapped production run, a delayed program, or a failed fit-check. Our engineers have 15+ years of experience converting scan data into usable CAD — not just mesh files handed back to you to figure out.
We work with manufacturers, OEMs, MROs, and product development teams across aerospace, automotive, energy, marine, and heavy equipment. Whether you need one legacy part reverse engineered or a full assembly documented, we deliver finished CAD files ready for downstream use.
3D Scan to CAD
We 3D laser scan your part at up to 0.02mm resolution, then rebuild it as a fully parametric CAD model. Accurate dimensions, correct tolerances, ready for manufacturing.
Legacy Part Documentation
No original drawings? No problem. We digitize obsolete components from physical surfaces alone. Full traceability from scan data to final deliverable.
Assembly Reverse Engineering
Complex, multi-part assemblies can be captured in a single workflow and then joined in CAD. Mating surfaces, interfaces, and fits all preserved in the final CAD output.
Dimensional Inspection
Compare as-built parts against nominal CAD. Full-color deviation maps and clear pass/fail documentation for QC, FAI, and engineering review all based on your tolerances.
OUR PROCESS
From Physical Part to CAD File in 5 Steps
DELIVERABLES
What You Receive With Every Project
Fully editable STEP, IGES, XT, or SolidWorks file. Every surface and feature built to spec — not a converted mesh.
Fully dimensioned PDF or DXF. GD&T, tolerances, and manufacturing notes included on request. Optional add-on.
Color-mapped scan vs. CAD comparison. Standard on inspection projects, available on all projects on request.
Full CAD Assemblies
Manufacture-ready 2D Prints
Dimensional Analysis
USE CASES
Who Uses Our Reverse Engineering Services
- ✓Legacy part recreation for components with no surviving drawings
- ✓OEM and aftermarket part reproduction
- ✓Tooling, jig, and fixture documentation
- ✓Casting and forging geometry capture
- ✓Prototype digitization for production prep
- ✓Competitive analysis and benchmarking
- ✓Custom fit and interface verification
- ✓Part modification and design iteration from physical hardware
Tell Us About Your Part
Free quotes are itemized. We scope scanning time, CAD rebuild hours, and delivery format before any work begins.
ABOUT TANGENT SOLUTIONS
15 Years of Engineering Experience Behind Every File
The Tangent Solutions engineering team has spent careers in motorsports, aerospace, and industrial fabrication before bringing that experience to 3D scanning and reverse engineering. We’ve worked on championship race programs, high-volume production development, and complex component manufacturing. Every CAD file we deliver reflects that standard, built to perform in the real world, not just look correct on screen.
We’re based in Costa Mesa, California. Our clients include aerospace OEMs, Tier 1 automotive suppliers, energy equipment manufacturers, and marine fabricators across the U.S. and internationally.
Engineering Teams That Rely On Us
COMMON QUESTIONS
Reverse Engineering Services FAQ
What file formats do you deliver?
STEP, IGES, and XT as standard. Also native SolidWorks (SLDPRT/SLDASM) and 2D drawings in PDF or DXF. Need a specific format for your CAD software? Let us know before the project starts.
Do I need to send my part in, or can you come on-site?
What's the difference between a mesh file and a CAD file?
A mesh (STL/OBJ) is a surface made of triangles, good for visualization and 3D printing, not for machining or design. A CAD file (STEP/IGES/XT) is a parametric solid model with real geometry you can edit, tolerance, and manufacture from. Reverse engineering converts the mesh into CAD.
How much does reverse engineering cost and what if I need changes?
Reverse engineering services start at $145 per hour. Design modifications and engineering changes are available at a separate rate, quoted based on scope. Most projects are priced upfront so you know the full cost before work begins. Simple parts typically run 1–2 hours. Complex assemblies or tight-tolerance aerospace work take longer. Free itemized quotes available.
Can I send you scan data I already have?
Yes. If you have a clean STL or OBJ mesh, we can reverse engineer directly from it without rescanning. This can reduce project cost depending upon the file quality. Send us the file and we’ll review and quote it.
Most standard parts: 5-7 business days from scan to final CAD file. Complex assemblies or tight-tolerance projects may take longer. Turnaround is confirmed when we quote your project.
Who keeps the CAD files when the project is complete?
Once a project is complete, all CAD files and deliverables are fully yours. No licensing fees, no restrictions on how you manufacture, modify, or distribute them. We routinely sign NDAs before any work begins, standard practice for aerospace, defense, and medical device programs. Send us your vendor NDA or we can work from a mutual.
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your part and we’ll respond within 24 hours with a clear scope and quote.