How to Generate STL Files

In the dynamic world of 3D design, the ability to generate STL files is crucial for translating your digital creations into tangible objects using 3D printing and modeling. Most 3D printers on the market, as well as 3D printing manufacturers like JLC3DP, prefer the STL format for production files.This guide will walk you through the streamlined process of generating STL files from the top 10 3D CAD software tools. More details about JLC3DP>>

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD's versatility spans various industries, making it a go-to CAD software. Follow these steps to export an STL file:

1.  Click Application menu Export Other Formats.

2.  In the Export Data dialog box, enter a file name.

3.  Under Files of type, select Lithography (*.stl). Click Save.

4.  Select one or more solid objects. All objects must be entirely within the positive XYZ octant of the world coordinate system (WCS). That is, their X, Y, and Z coordinates must be greater than zero.The file extension .stl is automatically appended to the file name.

2. SolidWorks

SolidWorks can export part and assembly files to STL (.stl), 3D Manufacturing Format (.3mf), or Additive Manufacturing File Format (.amf) format.

1.  Click File > Print3D.

2.  In the Print3D Property Manager, expand Save To File.

3.  For Format, choose one of the following:STL (*.stl)

4.  Click Save File.

5.  By default, the file is saved to the model location.

6.  Click Options.While many options are the same for the .stl, .3mf, and .amf file formats.

7.  Click OK.

8.  Click Save.

3. Fusion 360

Fusion 360's comprehensive suite of design, engineering, and collaboration tools makes it indispensable. It exports the STLfile in several ways;

Method 1:

1.  Right click the component, component group, or body in the model Browser tree (left panel).

2.  Select Save As Mesh.

3.  Select the Format that you would like to save.

4.  Click OK.

Method 2:

1. Click File.

2.Click Export.

3.Select STL as the file type.

1.  Click Export. The file will go through cloud translation here.

Method 3:

1.  Navigate to the file in the portal

2.  Click the export option (down arrow icon)

3.  Select STL as the file type

4.  The file will be sent to you via email.

4. CATIA

CATIA's stronghold in aerospace and automotive sectors is well-established. Follow this process to export an STL file:

1.  Open your design using CATIA.

2.  Utilize the "Export" command and select "STL Files (*.stl)".

3.  Configure settings encompassing mesh density and units.

4.  Safeguard your innovation by saving the STL file.

5. Rhino

Rhino excels in sculpting complex models. Conjure an STL file using these steps:

1.  Open your model in Rhino.

2.  Navigate to "File" > "Export Selected" .

3.  Select ‘STL (Stereolithography) (*.stl)’ on the Save as type input box.

4.  Set a name to the file.

5.  Press ‘Save’ to go to the next step.

6. SketchUp

SketchUp's intuitive interface caters to architectural visualization and beyond. Export an STL file using these steps:

1.  Select File > Import.

2.  In the Import dialog box that opens, navigate to the STL file that you want to import and select it.

3.  Windows Only (Optional) - Select STereoLithography Files (.stl) from the file type drop-down list and then click the Options button. The STL Import Options dialog box appears.

4.  MacOS Only (Optional) - Select STereoLithography Files (.stl) from the Format drop-down list and then click the Options button. The STL Import Options dialog box appears.

5.  (Optional) Select your desired options (explained in the following list) and click OK. You return to the Import dialog box.

6.  Click Import, and SketchUp imports the selected STL file.

7. Onshape

Onshape's cloud-based collaboration sets it apart. Generate an STL file using these steps:

1.  Right-click on part “PartStudio” tab in bottom left corner

2.  Click on “Export...”

3.  Give the file a name (color, part, name)

4.  In “Format”, change “PARASOLID” to "STL"

5.  Change “Units” to “Millimeters” by clicking and going down to Millimeter

6.  Click “OK”

7.  Download the file to your “Downloads” folder.

8. Tinkercad

Tinkercad's beginner-friendly approach is perfect for educational endeavors. Export an STL file using these steps:

1.  Open your design in Tinkercad.

2.  Click "Export" and choose "STL" as the format.

3.  Customize settings as required.

4.  Save your innovative creation as an STL file.

9. Blender

Blender's versatility extends to both modeling and animation. Craft an STL file using these steps:

1.  Open your model within Blender.

2.  Access "File" > "Export" > "Stl (.stl)".

3.  Adjust settings, including scale and units.

4.  Preserve your artistic expression by saving the STL file.

10. AutoCAD LT

AutoCAD LT offers lightweight 3D design capabilities. Export an STL file using these steps:

1.  Open your design in AutoCAD LT.

2.  Enter "EXPORTTOAUTOCAD" in the command line.

3.  Choose a destination and opt for "STL Files (*.stl)" format.

4.  Configure settings, including units and scale.

5.  Secure your design by saving the STL file.

Generating STL files is a pivotal step in breathing life into your 3D creations, enabling seamless integration with 3D printing and modeling. By following these meticulously outlined instructions tailored to each software, you can confidently navigate the process and create STL files poised for production.