How to Save SolidWorks File as IGES Format Easily

To save a SolidWorks file as an IGES file, open your part or assembly, then go to File > Save As. In the save dialog, select IGES (*.igs, *.iges) from the 'Save as type' dropdown, then click Save.

Syntax

The process to save a SolidWorks file as IGES follows this pattern:

• File > Save As: Opens the save dialog.
• Save as type: Choose IGES (*.igs, *.iges) from the dropdown.
• File name: Enter your desired file name.
• Save: Click to export the file in IGES format.

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File > Save As > Save as type: IGES (*.igs, *.iges) > Enter file name > Save

Example

This example shows how to export a SolidWorks part named Bracket.SLDPRT as an IGES file:

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1. Open <code>Bracket.SLDPRT</code> in SolidWorks.
2. Click <code>File</code> in the top menu.
3. Select <code>Save As</code>.
4. In the dialog, set <code>Save as type</code> to <code>IGES (*.igs, *.iges)</code>.
5. Name the file <code>Bracket.igs</code>.
6. Click <code>Save</code> to export.

Output

A new file named Bracket.igs is created in the chosen folder, ready for use in other CAD programs.

Common Pitfalls

• Wrong file type: Not selecting IGES in the 'Save as type' dropdown will save in the wrong format.
• Missing geometry: Complex features may not translate perfectly; check the IGES file in the target software.
• File extension: Ensure the file extension is .igs or .iges to avoid confusion.

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Wrong way:
File > Save As > Save as type: SolidWorks Part (*.sldprt) > Save

Right way:
File > Save As > Save as type: IGES (*.igs, *.iges) > Save

Quick Reference

Step	Action
1	Open your SolidWorks file
2	Click File > Save As
3	Select IGES (*.igs, *.iges) as file type
4	Enter file name with .igs extension
5	Click Save to export

Key Takeaways

Always select IGES (*.igs, *.iges) in the Save As dialog to export correctly.

Check the exported IGES file in the target software to confirm geometry integrity.

Use the .igs or .iges extension to ensure compatibility.

Saving as IGES allows sharing SolidWorks models with other CAD programs easily.