Can you save your 3D model as an STL file for 3D printing in SolidWorks?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — in SolidWorks, you can save your 3D model as an stl file for 3d printing using Save As and selecting STL (*.stl) as the file type. This is the most common professional method for exporting a solidworks part or assembly for slicers and additive workflows. Limitation: poor export settings can create faceted or unusable mesh output.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: STL export in SolidWorks converts your solid body into a triangle mesh, so curved faces are approximated rather than preserved as exact CAD geometry. A common failure is using coarse resolution, which creates visible facets, bad fits, or print inaccuracies on round or detailed features.

How to Save a 3D Model as an STL File in SolidWorks

  • Command: Save As

  • Shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+S

  • Quick Steps:

    1. Open the part or assembly, then go to File > Save As.
    2. In Save as type, choose *STL (.stl)**.
    3. Click Options, set Output as to Binary or ASCII, choose Resolution such as Fine or Custom, then click Save.

Variables & Settings

  • Key Setting: Resolution in STL Export Options

  • Expert Setting: This controls mesh quality during export. Coarse creates fewer triangles and smaller files, while Fine or Custom improves curved surfaces and small details. For 3D printing, Binary is usually preferred because it produces smaller files and is widely accepted by slicers.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): The model has gaps, zero-thickness features, bad knit surfaces, or non-manifold geometry that does not translate cleanly into a printable mesh.

  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): In assemblies, hidden or suppressed components may be excluded from export, and lightweight or unresolved components can produce incomplete STL output.

  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Exporting with low STL resolution or the wrong unit setting can create faceted surfaces or incorrect part scale in the 3D printer software.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: In File > Save As > STL > Options, switch to Fine or Custom resolution and verify the correct units before exporting.

  • Manager’s Verdict: Use STL only for final 3D printing export, not for design exchange. Keep the SolidWorks source file as the master model, and export stl only after checking body integrity, units, and mesh quality.

FAQ

Can solidworks export assemblies as STL files?
Yes, but you should confirm all components are resolved and included before export.

Should I use Binary or ASCII STL in SolidWorks?
Binary is usually better because the file is smaller and faster to handle.

Why does my STL look rough on curved surfaces?
The export resolution is too low, so increase the STL quality in the Options dialog.

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