How to Prepare SolidWorks Model for 3D Printing: Step-by-Step Guide

To prepare a SolidWorks model for 3D printing, first ensure your model is a solid body with no errors by using Check and Repair tools. Then export the model as an STL file with appropriate resolution settings for your printer.

Syntax

Preparing a SolidWorks model for 3D printing involves these key steps:

• Check Geometry: Use Tools > Evaluate > Check to find errors.
• Repair Model: Fix issues with Repair Bodies or Import Diagnostics.
• Export STL: Save the model as an .stl file via File > Save As and choose STL format.
• Set Export Options: Adjust resolution by setting deviation and angle tolerance for print quality.

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File > Save As > Select 'STL (*.stl)' > Options > Set 'Resolution' (e.g., Fine) > Save

Example

This example shows how to export a SolidWorks model as an STL file ready for 3D printing:

1. Open your model in SolidWorks.
2. Go to File > Save As.
3. Choose STL (*.stl) as the file type.
4. Click Options and select Binary format for smaller file size.
5. Set Resolution to Fine for better print detail.
6. Click OK and then Save.

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File > Save As > STL (*.stl) > Options > Format: Binary > Resolution: Fine > OK > Save

Output

STL file saved with fine resolution and binary format, ready for 3D printing.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when preparing SolidWorks models for 3D printing include:

• Exporting models with open surfaces or gaps instead of solid bodies, causing print errors.
• Using low STL resolution, resulting in poor print quality.
• Ignoring scale units, which can cause the printed part to be the wrong size.
• Not checking model orientation for optimal printing.

Always verify your model is a solid, check units, and preview the STL file in your slicer software before printing.

text

/* Wrong way: Exporting a surface model */
// Model is not a solid body
File > Save As > STL
// Result: STL file with errors

/* Right way: Convert to solid and check */
// Use features like Boss/Base to create solid bodies
Tools > Evaluate > Check
File > Save As > STL > Options > Fine Resolution
Save

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Check model is a solid body	Use Tools > Evaluate > Check
2	Repair any geometry errors	Use Import Diagnostics or Repair Bodies
3	Set correct units	Match your 3D printer's units
4	Export as STL	File > Save As > STL (*.stl)
5	Adjust STL options	Choose Binary format and Fine resolution
6	Preview STL in slicer	Verify scale and orientation

Key Takeaways

Always ensure your SolidWorks model is a solid body with no geometry errors before exporting.

Export your model as an STL file using binary format and fine resolution for best 3D print quality.

Check and match units between SolidWorks and your 3D printer to avoid size issues.

Preview the STL file in your slicer software to confirm scale and orientation before printing.

Use SolidWorks tools like Import Diagnostics to repair models and avoid print failures.