What is STL file used for?

STL format is the most commonly used format file for 3D printing. An STL (Standard Tessellation Language or STereoLithography) file is a format that describes surface geometry of a 3D object without any colour, texture or other attributes.

Is STL a binary file?

The binary representation of the STL (STereoLithography) file format is a simple, openly documented format for describing the surface of an object as a triangular mesh. Since its introduction in the late 1980s, STL has become a de facto standard for rapid prototyping and 3D printing.

What is STL format SLA?

STL (STereoLithography): Format for Printable 3D Files. STL is a 3D file format. It is used to store uncolored mesh. It was initially developed by 3D Systems. A triangular mesh as stored in an STL file.

Are STL files vector?

STL files can be loaded as either vector images or raster images. However, saving to STL is not supported.

What programs can open STL files?

Programs that open STL files

  • Microsoft 3D Viewer.
  • Microsoft Print 3D.
  • IMSI TurboCAD Pro.
  • GOM Inspect.
  • ideaMK STL Viewer.
  • Parametric Technology Creo.
  • Dassault Systemes CATIA.
  • MeshLab.

What program opens STL files?

How do I use STL files?

Once you have optimized your part using the above steps, it is ready to export as an STL file.

  1. Download the 3D Print Exporter Plugin from ZBrush.
  2. Select the ZPlugin menu.
  3. Click 3D Print Exporter.
  4. Define and scale your dimensions.
  5. Select STL > STL Export.
  6. Save.

Which is the file format used in stereolithography?

Identification and description Full name STL (STereoLithography) File Format Fami Description The STL (STereoLithography) file format Production phase The STL format can be used as an initial Has subtype STL_ASCII, STL (STereoLithography) File

How is a stereolithography machine used in 3D printing?

Stereolithography belongs to a family of additive manufacturing technologies known as vat photopolymerization, commonly known as resin 3D printing. These machines are all built around the same principle, using a light source—a laser or projector—to cure liquid resin into hardened plastic.

Is the STL file format used in 3D printing?

STL is a file format native to the stereolithography CAD software created by 3D Systems. STL has several backronyms such as “Standard Triangle Language” and “Standard Tessellation Language”. This file format is supported by many other software packages; it is widely used for rapid prototyping, 3D printing and computer-aided manufacturing.

What can stereolithography be used for in a car?

A car manufacturer, for example, might use stereolithography to create a prototype casting of a car door handle. Such a prototype can be tested for fit and form and, once perfected, can serve as the master pattern for a machined auto part.