Common 3D Printer File Formats
Table of Contents
- 1. STL (Stereolithography): The 3D Printing Workhorse
- 2. OBJ (Wavefront Object): A Versatile 3D Printing Format
- 3. 3MF (3D Manufacturing Format): A New Standard for 3D Printing
- 4. STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product model data): A Format for Engineering
- 5. AMF (Additive Manufacturing File Format): A More Advanced 3D Printing Format
- 6. G-code: Instructions for 3D Printers
- Choose the Right 3D Printing Format!
File formats for 3D printing are a critical element in the work of any professional dealing with 3D printers. All of these formats have a set of features, advantages, and disadvantages. We will take you through some of the most common ones you're most likely to use-from the most popular STL to the more recent 3MF. We shall look into what each uniquely offers and how to select the right format for your projects. This way, next time you go about preparing your 3D models for printing, you will be better placed.
1. STL (Stereolithography): The 3D Printing Workhorse
STL is the most common file type for 3D printing. It's been used since the 1980s and is popular with both hobbyists and professionals.
What Is STL?
An STL file shows the surface of a 3D object. It does this by using many small triangles to describe the shape. This simple method works well for most 3D objects.
Good Things About STL Files
- Easy to Use: STL files are simple, which makes them easy to create and work with. Many 3D modeling programs can make STL files.
- Works Everywhere: Almost all 3D printers can use STL files. This means you can design your model on any computer and print it on most 3D printers.
Limits of STL Files
- Big File Sizes: STL files of complex objects can be very large. This can make them hard to store or slow to process.
- Basic Information: STL files only show the shape of an object. They don't include information about color or materials. This is fine for simple prints but not enough for more complex projects.
When to Use STL
STL is good for many 3D printing projects, especially ones that don't need color or different materials. It's easy for beginners to use and works well for sharing 3D models with others.
2. OBJ (Wavefront Object): A Versatile 3D Printing Format
OBJ was designed by Wavefront Technologies and is another 3D file format. This format allows for more functions to be performed compared to STL and finds applications in 3D printing, computer graphics, and design.
What's Special About OBJ?
OBJ Files Can Contain More Than One Object: OBJ file format can store more than one object. This is very useful for projects that contain a number of pieces.
Benefits of OBJ Files
- Multiple Objects: OBJ files can hold more than one object. This is helpful for projects with many parts.
- More Details: OBJ files can store information about surfaces and textures. This makes 3D models look better, especially in graphics software.
- Used in Many Fields: OBJ is common in 3D graphics. Many types of software can use OBJ files, which makes sharing work easier.
Downsides of OBJ
- Larger Files: OBJ files are often bigger than STL files because they store more information.
- Printer Support: Not all 3D printers can use OBJ files directly. Some might need to change the file to STL before printing.
When to Use OBJ
OBJ is great in applications that require the retention of colour and texture in 3D models. It is useful in product designing, architecture, and game development.
The OBJ works rather well on 3D printing, especially on those printers that can support color or different materials. However, just make sure your printer can use OBJ files beforehand.
3. 3MF (3D Manufacturing Format): A New Standard for 3D Printing
3MF is a newer file format for 3D printing. It was created by the 3MF Consortium, a group of companies in the 3D printing industry.
XML-Based Structure
3MF uses XML, a common way to store data. This makes 3MF files easy for both computers and people to read.
Benefits of 3MF
- Smaller Files: 3MF files are often smaller than other formats like STL. This helps save storage space and makes files quicker to send.
- More Information: 3MF can store details about colors, materials, and print settings along with the 3D model. This extra information helps make printing more accurate.
- Ready to Print: Because 3MF includes print settings, it's often easier to go from design to printing without extra steps.
Growing Use in 3D Printing
More and more 3D printing software and printers now work with 3MF. Many companies see it as a good way to improve 3D printing.
When to Use 3MF
3MF works well for newer 3D printers, especially in professional settings. It's good for complex models that need specific materials or print settings. As more printers start to use 3MF, it will likely become more common for all types of 3D printing.
4. STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product model data): A Format for Engineering
STEP is a file format used in engineering and manufacturing. It's an official standard created by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
What is STEP?
STEP files are used to share 3D models between different Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs. They're especially common in industries like car making and aerospace.
Good Things About STEP Files
- Very Accurate: STEP files keep the exact measurements of 3D models. This is important when making precise parts.
- Keeps Design History: Unlike some other formats, STEP files can save information about how a model was made. This helps engineers understand and change designs later.
Limits of STEP Files
- Complicated: STEP files are more complex than formats like STL. This can make them harder to work with for simple projects.
- Not for All Printers: Many 3D printers can't use STEP files directly. You might need to change the file to another format before printing.
When to Use STEP
STEP is perfect for engineering projects with high demand for accuracy. It is good when one wants to keep all the details of a design or when models are needed to be interchanged between different CAD programs.
For 3D printing, STEP may come in handy if you produce very precise pieces. However, not all printers support STEP files, one has to consider. Prepare a file that is susceptible for conversion into other formats, such as STL.
5. AMF (Additive Manufacturing File Format): A More Advanced 3D Printing Format
AMF was intended as an improved edition of STL used in 3D printing. It makes use of the XM, which is the standard way to store data.
What is AMF?
The AMF file format permits additional data being held for 3D models compared to the STL. They are specifically made for 3D printing due to the fact.
Good Things About AMF Files
- More Details: AMF can include information about colors, materials, and the inside of objects. This helps make more complex 3D prints.
- Better for Complex Shapes: For complicated 3D models, AMF files are often smaller and more accurate than STL files.
Limits of AMF Files
- Not Widely Used: Even though AMF has some advantages, it's not as common as STL or 3MF. This means fewer programs and printers support it.
When to Use AMF
AMF is good for 3D printing projects that need different colors or materials. It's also helpful for complex models that might have problems with STL files.
However, before using AMF, check if your 3D printer and software can work with it. You might need to convert AMF files to another format if your printer doesn't support them directly.
6. G-code: Instructions for 3D Printers
G-code is different from other 3D printing files. It's not a 3D model format, but a set of instructions for 3D printers.
What is G-code?
G-code tells a 3D printer exactly how to move and what to do. It's made by special software called a slicer, which turns 3D models into printing instructions. G-code gives the printer detailed commands, like where to move, how fast to go, and when to put out plastic.
How G-code Works
Every time you print a 3D model, new G-code is created. The slicer software makes it based on your printer settings and the 3D model. This means the G-code is specific to each print job.
Different for Each Printer
G-code can be different for various types of 3D printers. A file that works on one printer might not work on another. This is because different printers may use slightly different commands or have unique features.
When You See G-code
You usually don't need to work with G-code directly. Your 3D printing software handles it for you. But knowing about G-code can help you understand how 3D printers work and fix problems if they happen. If you're interested in the details of 3D printing, looking at G-code can give you insights into the printing process.
Choose the Right 3D Printing Format!
Each 3D printing file format has its own uses. STL is the most common and simple. OBJ and 3MF are good for more complex projects. STEP is used in engineering, while AMF offers advanced features. G-code is what printers actually use. Knowing these formats helps you pick the best one for your project. The right choice depends on what you're making and what printer you're using. As you learn more about these formats, you'll be able to improve your 3D printing results.