All About the STL File Format for 3D Printing

STL files interpret the geometrical surfaces of 3D models created with the help of CAD software. Though other file formats exist, the STL format is simple to understand and use. STL files describe, interpret, or encode these surfaces in a series of small triangles, called tessellation or tiling. The complexity of the models or designs is proportional to the number of triangles used and the resolution of the 3D image. In addition, 3D STL files work hand-in-hand with the slicer software to make the job of 3D printers a reality.

Who Created the STL File Format?

The use of STL files in 3D printing technology dates back to 1987. 3D Systems created the STL files for 3D printing under the authority of Chuck Hull, who was then president. The STL file was incorporated in their stereolithography (SLA) printing technology, a manufacturing technology that uses a photosensitive resin to build objects in layers. However, since the inception of STL files, the underlying principle has not changed much. It still encodes the surface geometry of objects in a standard triangle or standard tessellation language.

The steps in converting an STL file depend on the software or online tool used. It is essential to follow the specific software or tool instructions. For STL file conversion to a solid or CAD model, the following steps can be followed: 

1. Create a new document by clicking  “File” and then select “New.”
2. Click on the file and transfer the object for modification.
3. The workbench should be changed to Part (Part objects are more complex in structure than those created with mesh workbench).
4. Select the imported or transferred object in the model window.
5. Click the part and select "Create shape from mesh."

For more information, see our guide on how to Convert an STL File to a STEP File.

There are many ways of opening the STL file format, depending on the software or tool used. The process of opening an STL file below uses Autodesk Fusion:

1. Go to the insert menu found on the design workspace and select the Insert Mesh command.
2. A dialogue will open. Select the STL or mesh file.
3. Select the unit type and place the model as needed.
4. Orient the model as required.

It is important to note that uploading the STL or mesh file to the data panel of Fusion should be avoided. This will make reorienting the model impossible. Always import it through the Insert Mesh command.

An STL file can be created by following the steps below.

1. Open TinkerCad or SketchUp, Depending on Your CAD Application of Choice.

Creating an STL file starts with CAD software, of which there are a lot of options available. There are STL files made just for beginners and those made for professionals. Depending on one's level of expertise, there are a variety of STL files to suit one's needs. Starters or beginners can go for TinkerCad or SketchUp because of their relatively simple, user-friendly interfaces. Engineers and artists alike may go for Autodesk Inventor and Blender, respectively. While some programs require payments, TinkerCad and SketchUp are free. All the user needs to do is to create an account and start—straight up—though after a good understanding of either program’s functionality.

2. Create the Model or Design With the Tools Provided by Your Software.

Once a suitable software application is downloaded, prepare the workspace. Check and familiarize yourself with the tools provided. Some tools, when used incorrectly, show an error message. With the chosen tool, an axis can be sketched and a basic 2D model drawn. It must be noted that understanding and accepting the terms and conditions of the software's cookies ensures a complete and enhanced experience.

3. Save and Export Your Design to Your Computer, After You’ve Finished.

The STL file created on the CAD software can easily be exported to the computer through the autosave feature. With this, downloading becomes unnecessary. Its purpose is also to ensure that the work remains intact. Exporting a 3D printer STL is not difficult. Locate "export" on the software's page and click on it. A box should pop up containing several options. Most software will present the user with any of these: standard triangle language, standard tessellation language, or stereolithography. They are all valid and should be chosen as the case may be.

It is important to note that all these conditions must be satisfied before exporting the file for the best result:

1. Check the file or model for uniformity
2. Check for holes in the mesh part
3. Alter the dimensions or adjust the scale if so desired

4. Select a Slicer Program. Cura is a Good Starting Point.

Compared to other slicer programs, Cura is beginner-friendly and comes with a navigable graphical user interface (GUI). It is made by Ultimaker and is a popular software for beginners and professionals. Its function is to slice a 3D model STL file and translate it to a form that the 3D printer can interpret.

5. Open the File and “Slice” It to a G-Code File Using Your Preferred Slicing Tool.

Essentially, a G-code is a language the printer can understand and process. This is where the slicer software comes in. It does the work of transforming the STL files to a form the printer can understand and use to print the part from the model created.

The importance of an STL file is that it serves as a link or intermediary between the 3D model developed with the CAD software and the 3D printer. STL works in conjunction with the slicer or slicer software. Although other file formats exist, the STL format has been recommended as the standard when it comes to 3D printing or rapid prototyping of objects or models.

What Are the Types of STL Files?

There are two types of STL files: ASCII and binary STL. They are both used in encoding information about geometrical surfaces that have been triangulated or tessellated. Information is stored in both cases as the vertex coordinates and the unit normal vector components to the triangle. In most cases, it should be enough to use ASCII. But complex designs—those tiled with many small triangles—work best with the more compact binary STL file format.

What Are the Best STL File Converters?

The best STL file converters are:

1. Meshconvert: This is solely used for converting mesh files and not used for solid models or solid geometry files. Meshconvert is completely free and supports a variety of file formats.
2. Online CAD Converter: This converter transforms an incredible range of file formats, but it comes at a price. Not only does it convert graphical file formats but also files that include ASM (pro/engineer) and IPT (inventor). However, a user can only convert a single file for free—anything beyond this must be paid for.
3. Greentoken: This is a free online converter but supports an impressive collection of file formats, including proprietary and neutral types. Greentoken beats many free online tools because of the variety of input files it can handle.

What Are the Best Applications for STL files?

The best applications for STL files are:

1. MeshLab: This software comes with a set of tools for inspecting, editing, cleaning, and converting triangular meshes. MeshLab allows the user to process raw data produced by 3D modeling programs and get it ready for printing.
2. SketchUp: SketchUp is a 3D modeling tool used for several projects or drawing applications. These include landscape architecture, interior designs, and video game designs. 
3. SculptGL: SculptGL comes with relatively few tools. It provides a great way for quickly creating 3D models. Some of the features include setting up a digital clay before pinching, tweaking, and pushing it into shape.

Is an STL File the Same as a CAD File?

No, an STL file is not the same as a CAD file. CAD files are used to create 3D models, while STL files are created by tiling or tessellating the models' geometrical surfaces with triangles. Put another way, an STL file is an approximated version of the CAD file.

This article discussed the STL file format and how it is used in relation to 3D printing. To learn more about STL file formats and how you can use them for your projects, contact a Xometry representative.

Xometry provides a wide range of manufacturing capabilities, including 3D printing and other value-added services for all of your prototyping and production needs. Visit our website to learn more or to request a free, no-obligation quote.

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