• This article will discuss STL file format, including its definition, the types of STL files, its history, and converters.
  • Almost all of today’s CAD systems are capable enough to produce an STL file. For the user, the process is often as simple as selecting File, Save As, and STL.
  • 3D Viewer is the default 3D file viewer app that you get in Windows 10. It lets you view 3D models of different formats such as STL, FBX, GLTF, OBJ, and other files.
  • Consequently, many computer-aided design systems can output the STL file format. Although the output is simple to produce, mesh connectivity information is...
  • The ASCII version of STL file format is written in plain ASCII. However, due to its large size, the file format is not selected as preferable format for usage.
  • On Mac, you can use several online tools to view your STL file in a web browser or you can download an STL viewer app to preview your design across devices.
  • If you want to use additive manufacture for your next project, you will have to get your file in the right file format, and STL is certainly the most popular one.
  • Visit the website and drag your file. You will be able to view the .STL format in three different views. Also, ViewSTL supports other files like .3MF and .OBJ.
  • In the late 1980s, 3D Systems co-founder Chuck Hull patented stereolithography technology, and 3D Systems created the STL file format.
  • Invented by 3D Systems, the STL format is the standard triangulated language for 3D printers, and all forming machines can process STL files for printing.