IGES to STEP - Professional and Fast IGES Conversion

Convert IGES to STEP

IGES to STEP Conversion

Want to change IGES to STEP? Follow this simple step-by-step process:

  1. Download & Install:

    Convert your IGES files to STEP format seamlessly using Autoconverter or Autoshaper - simply install and launch the software on your system.

  2. Import IGES File:

    Either click Open... to browse for your .iges file, or drag and drop it anywhere in the application window.

  3. Export to STEP Format:

    Use Save As... to specify both location and filename (with .step extension) for your exported file.

Looking for reliable IGES to STEP conversion? These expert-approved guides make IGES files conversion easy:

IGS Initial Graphics Exchange File

A file format widely used in the fields of CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), as it enables to transfer of 3D models and designs across different platforms and applications. Developed in the 1980s and standardized by ANSI and ISO, IGES remains a foundational yet legacy-neutral format for 3D data exchange.

Key Features of IGES/IGS

  • Text-Based Geometry Storage:

    The IGES format stores all geometric data in human-readable text, enabling easy editing but potentially creating large files when exporting complex models with dense meshes.

  • Color Representation:

    IGES maintains color information at the assembly level, preserving visual clarity in multi-component designs.

  • Transparency Limitations:

    Unlike modern formats, IGES lacks alpha channel support, meaning transparency settings from original 3D designs won't carry through in exported files.

IGES/IGS File Conversion

Autoconverter provides full read/write capabilities for IGES files through the Open Cascade framework, ensuring compatibility with the latest specifications. The application works exclusively with triangulated mesh geometry when processing IGES files. For projects requiring native NURBS surface preservation, we recommend using Autoshaper, which maintains the original smooth surface definitions throughout conversion.

STP STandardized Exchange of Product File

A widely adopted file format for the exchange of 3D data across diverse computer systems, including CAD, CAM, and CAE applications. Designed to ensure seamless interoperability, STEP files provide a reliable and standardized method for sharing complex 3D models.

Key Features of STEP/STP

  • Universal Interoperability:

    As an ISO-standardized format, STEP files eliminate vendor lock-in, allowing smooth data exchange between major CAD software like SolidWorks, NX, Creo, CATIA, and more.

  • Broad Compatibility:

    Supported by numerous applications and platforms, STEP files simplify cross-industry collaboration and ensure consistency across different workflows.

  • High Accuracy:

    Unlike mesh formats such as SKP, OBJ, or STL, which may introduce distortions, STEP files maintain the precise shape, dimensions, and integrity of 3D models.

  • Materials:

    STEP/STP files retain color information per assembly, making them useful for design visualization. However, they do not support transparency (alpha component), meaning transparent materials will appear opaque.

STEP/STP File Conversion

STEP files can become quite large, particularly when they contain intricate or high-resolution 3D models. To reduce file size, our Autoconverter software offers an efficient solution by utilizing the faceted BREP representation, which can reduce file size by up to one-third. Leveraging the powerful Open Cascade framework, Autoconverter ensures full compatibility with the latest STEP standards, making it the ideal tool for optimizing STEP files without compromising quality.

IGES vs. STEP Comparison

Property IGES STEP
Extensions .igs, .iges .stp, .step
Name Initial Graphics Exchange Specification STandardized Exchange of Product
Versions
  • Min: AP203
  • Max: AP242DIS
Textures
Colors
Geometry components
Readers
Writers