How to Convert 3D Models into STL Files Using Solid Edge
Solid Edge ST6 – ST8
- Open Save As Dialog
- Click the Application Button and select Save As. This will open the Save As dialog box.
- Select STL File Type
- From the Save As drop-down menu, select STL documents (*.stl).
- Access STL Options
- Click the Options button in the Save As dialog box to adjust the export settings.
- Adjust Conversion Tolerance
- Adjust the Conversion Tolerance to control the fineness of the tessellation. Recommended tolerance units are in millimeters.
- The lower the conversion tolerance, the finer the tessellation.
- Set Surface Plane Angle
- Adjust the Surface Plane Angle depending on the desired surface smoothness.
- The lower the surface plane angle, the greater the accuracy, which is especially noticeable in small details.
- Note that finer tessellation and greater accuracy increase the STL file size and the time it takes to generate the file.
- Select Binary Output
- Under Output File as, check Binary. Binary STL files are much smaller than those saved in ASCII format.
- Save the STL File
- Click OK, then Save to save the STL file.
Additional Tips
- Review Controls
- Familiarize yourself with the controls for exporting STL files in Solid Edge for optimal results.
- Creating Individual STL Files for Assemblies
- While Solid Edge can create individual STL files from the components of an assembly, this functionality is achieved through the application programming interface (API) using Visual Basic scripts and does not enable a visual preview of the polygon mesh before saving.
Solid Edge (Older than ST6)
- Open Model and Save As
- Open the model and select File > Save As.
- Select STL File Type
- From the Save As Type drop-down menu, select STL.
- Adjust Conversion Tolerance
- Click Options and set the Conversion Tolerance:
- 0.0254 mm for FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
- 0.015 mm for PolyJet
- Click Options and set the Conversion Tolerance:
- Set Surface Plane Angle
- Set the Surface Plane Angle to 45°.
- Select Binary Output
- Select Binary and click OK.
- Save the STL File
- Name your file and click Save.
Additional Considerations
- Scale and Units
- Ensure your model is correctly scaled before exporting. The units in Solid Edge should match the units your 3D printer uses to avoid scaling issues.
- Wall Thickness
- Verify that your model has appropriate wall thickness. Thin walls may not print correctly or may be too fragile. Check your 3D printer’s specifications for minimum wall thickness requirements.
- Model Orientation
- Consider the orientation of your model in the 3D printer. Proper orientation can reduce the amount of support material needed and improve the surface finish.
- File Size and Complexity
- STL files can become very large with high resolution. Ensure your computer can handle the file size and that your 3D printer’s software can process it. Simplify the model where possible to reduce file size without compromising print quality.
- Manifold Geometry
- Ensure your model is manifold (watertight). Every edge should be connected to exactly two faces. Non-manifold geometry can cause errors during 3D printing.
- Software Updates
- Keep your Solid Edge software and 3D printer’s firmware updated. Updates often include bug fixes and new features that can improve the export process and print quality.
- Test Prints
- Before committing to a full-scale print, consider doing a small test print. This can help identify any potential issues and save material and time.
By following these steps and tips, you can ensure a successful conversion of 3D models into STL files suitable for 3D printing, resulting in high-quality prints and efficient use of resources.