How to Export STL from SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To export an STL file from SolidWorks, open your 3D model, click File > Save As, then select STL (*.stl) as the file type. Adjust export options if needed, then save the file to your desired location.

Syntax

The basic steps to export an STL file in SolidWorks are:

• Open your model: Have your 3D part or assembly ready.
• File > Save As: Choose this option to save your file in a different format.
• Select STL (*.stl): From the dropdown list of file types, pick STL.
• Options: Click the Options button to set resolution and units.
• Save: Choose the folder and filename, then save.

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File > Save As > Save as type: STL (*.stl) > Options > Save

Example

This example shows how to export a simple part as an STL file with default settings.

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1. Open your SolidWorks part file.
2. Click <File> menu, then <Save As>.
3. In the 'Save as type' dropdown, select 'STL (*.stl)'.
4. Click <Options> to check or change export settings (e.g., resolution).
5. Click <Save> to export the STL file.

Output

An STL file named as chosen is saved in the selected folder, ready for 3D printing or sharing.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when exporting STL from SolidWorks include:

• Not selecting STL (*.stl) as the file type, resulting in wrong file format.
• Ignoring the Options button, which can cause low-quality or incorrect scale exports.
• Exporting assemblies without checking if all parts are properly included.
• Saving with incorrect units, causing size mismatches in 3D printing.

Always verify the STL file in a viewer before printing.

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Wrong way:
File > Save As > Save as type: STEP (*.step) > Save

Right way:
File > Save As > Save as type: STL (*.stl) > Options (set resolution and units) > Save

Quick Reference

Tips for exporting STL files from SolidWorks:

• Use High resolution in Options for detailed prints.
• Set units to millimeters if your 3D printer expects metric.
• Check the Output as ASCII or Binary format depending on your printer software.
• Preview the STL file in a viewer to confirm geometry before printing.

Key Takeaways

Always select STL (*.stl) as the file type in Save As to export correctly.

Use the Options button to set resolution and units for accurate 3D printing.

Verify the exported STL file in a viewer before using it for printing.

Avoid exporting wrong file formats by double-checking the Save As type.

Set units consistently between SolidWorks and your 3D printer software.