STL to IGES Conversion
Here is a list of valuable resources, filled with step-by-step instructions and expert tips for converting STL files to IGES format with our converters. Dive in now to make your STL files conversion easier later.
- Convert 3D Mesh Files in the Batch Mode
- Change 3D Model Units in STEP / IGES Files
- Export IGES from Sketchup Drawing
- Automesher Desktop Application for Windows to Convert 3D File Formats
- How to Convert SKP to IGES File Format
STL vs IGES Comparison
| Property | STL | IGES |
|---|---|---|
| Extensions | .stl | .igs, .iges |
| Name | STereoLithography | Initial Graphics Exchange Specification |
| Versions | ||
| Textures | ||
| Colors | ||
| Geometry components |
STereoLithography File
A file format that was developed by 3D Systems, a global leader in the 3D printing industry. It is primarily used for storing 3D models and exclusively contains triangular mesh data. Some of the benefits and features of STL files are:
- Simplicity: STL files are easy to create and read by many software applications and 3D printers, as they only contain the coordinates of the vertices and the normal vectors of the triangles.
- Lack of Additional Information: STL files do not include information on face color, texture, transparency, and named groups. This means that all STL models are effectively colorless in their raw form.
- Binary and ASCII STL Formats: STL files can be saved in either binary or ASCII text formats. The binary format is generally preferred due to its significant reduction in file size compared to the ASCII format.
- Units of Measurement: The coordinates in STL files are always defined in millimeters. If necessary, our STL converter will perform the required units conversion.
STL Files Converter: While it is technically possible to assign RGB color values to individual vertices in an STL file, it’s important to note that not all software, including our Autoconverter, currently supports this extension.
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. It has the following features:
- Text Format: IGES uses a text format to store geometry data, which means it can be easily readable and editable. However, this also means that IGES files can become very large when exporting complex shapes or meshes with many faces.
- Color Support: The IGES format supports color per assembly, enhancing the visual appeal of your 3D designs.
- Transparency Settings: One limitation of the IGES format is the absence of an alpha component. This means that any transparency settings in your 3D design will be lost when saved in the IGES format.
IGES File Converters: Autoconverter supports IGES format for reading and writing, however it can only work with triangulated mesh geometry. If you need to preserve smooth IGES surfaces you should use Autoshaper instead. Our software employs the Open Cascade framework, providing full support for the most recent IGES specifications.