How to Save SolidWorks File as STEP Format Easily

To save a SolidWorks file as a STEP file, open your model, go to File > Save As, then select STEP (*.step, *.stp) from the 'Save as type' dropdown. Click Save to export your file in the STEP format.

Syntax

In SolidWorks, the process to save a file as STEP format follows this pattern:

• File > Save As: Opens the save dialog.
• Save as type: Choose STEP (*.step, *.stp) from the dropdown list.
• File name: Enter your desired file name.
• Save: Click to export the file.

This exports your 3D model into a neutral STEP file format used for sharing across different CAD software.

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File > Save As > Save as type: STEP (*.step, *.stp) > Save

Example

This example shows how to save a SolidWorks part file named Gear.sldprt as a STEP file:

1. Open Gear.sldprt in SolidWorks.
2. Click File in the top menu.
3. Select Save As.
4. In the dialog, set Save as type to STEP (*.step, *.stp).
5. Rename the file if needed, e.g., Gear.step.
6. Click Save.

The file Gear.step is now created and can be opened in other CAD programs.

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1. Open Gear.sldprt
2. File > Save As
3. Save as type: STEP (*.step, *.stp)
4. File name: Gear.step
5. Click Save

Output

File Gear.step created in chosen folder

Common Pitfalls

Some common mistakes when saving as STEP include:

• Not selecting the correct STEP (*.step, *.stp) file type, which results in saving in the wrong format.
• Overwriting important files by not changing the file name.
• Forgetting to check export options if you want to customize STEP version or units.
• Trying to save assemblies without all referenced parts loaded, causing incomplete exports.

Always verify the file type and location before saving.

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

Right way:
File > Save As > Save as type: STEP (*.step, *.stp) > Save

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Details
1	Open File	Open your SolidWorks model (.sldprt or .sldasm)
2	File Menu	Click File > Save As
3	Select Format	Choose STEP (*.step, *.stp) from dropdown
4	Name File	Enter desired file name with .step extension
5	Save	Click Save to export the STEP file

Key Takeaways

Always use File > Save As and select STEP (*.step, *.stp) to export your model.

Check the file name and location before saving to avoid overwriting files.

STEP files allow easy sharing across different CAD software.

Ensure all parts are loaded when saving assemblies as STEP.

Verify export options if you need specific STEP versions or units.