3d Printing: All About 3d Printer Files

3D printing has evolved to a point where both consumers and industry talents can make use of the technology in more efficient and less expensive ways. It's commonly used in several industries as a way to perform rapid prototyping without compromising time and money for large businesses.

It's also evolved to a point where anyone can get something printed by a 3D printer nowadays. Just look at all of the 3D printing services out there nowadays. But, before you decide to get something 3D printed, it's important to learn about how to prepare 3D printer files.

3D Modeling and 3D Printer Files

One of the main tools that help facilitate 3D printing are 3D models. 3D modeling itself is a process that involves developing a mathematical representation of a three dimensional object's surface. These objects are often displayed as a 3D model in its entirety, but also can be displayed as a 2D object when viewed head on (through 3D modeling software).

Many 3D artists create 3D models by hand, however some 3D modeling software allows people to create models using automated processes. In some respects, manual 3D modeling is often compared to plastic sculpting.

Although many 3D modeling software suites are starting to recognize accepted 3D printer files, it's important to understand what files are acceptable for use.

3D Printer File Formats

Different types of files are used in 3D printing. However, there's one format that's widely accepted across several industries as the 'universal' 3D printing file format.

That file format is known as STL. STL is short for stereo lithography, a type of addictive fabrication technology first curated by 3D Systems in the mid-1980s. Although other types of 3D printer formats were curated over the years, STL has maintained its hold as the standard 3D printing file format for most addictive fabrication technologies since its initial creation.

STL files act as a representation of surface geometry in what's known as a triangulated format. While this format allows for a more well rounded piece, true STL files currently don't support any color information. Other file formats, including improved versions of the STL format, are currently being used to potentially add color information to specific triangles without altering the STL structure. Other new file formats have also experimented with adding color information to 3D printing files without utilizing the STL file format structure, too.

Most modern CAD software suites now export 3D models directly to STL format. However, users that do choose to export should take care in performing a raw export of the file. This could potentially cause the file to retain mistakes that may potentially cause problems with the 3D printing process.

STL Preparation for 3D Printing

Fortunately, there are programs that can help efficiently prepare STL files before taking them to a 3D printer.

SpaceClaim Engineer's STL Prep module helps prepare models for 3D printing. It offers a single solution that efficiently repairs any apparent issues with STL and CAD files, in addition to safely modifying them for later use in a 3D Printer Files.

The module also allows users to take further advantage of SpaceClaim Engineer's intuitive user interface, giving them the ability to efficiently work with any major 3D format today. Visit SpaceClaim Engineer for more information.

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