STEP (.step) is the gold standard. Contains the exact parametric geometry we can modify. STL works too (mesh approximation) but gives less flexibility. We also accept 3MF, IGES, OBJ and Parasolid (.x_t) up to 200 MB. For one-off reverse engineering a 2D drawing or detailed photos sometimes suffice.
Why STEP over the rest
STEP is a parametric CAD format: contains the precise mathematical description of your geometry (NURBS surfaces, exact features).
For 3D printing that means: the slicer sees your real surface, not a triangular approximation. For our engineers: we can check wall thickness, add features, shell parts, without reconstructing the geometry.
For critical dimensions (press-fits, tolerance zones, later CNC finishing), STEP is needed to keep them exact. Choose STEP AP242 or AP214 for maximum compatibility.
When STL or other formats suffice
STL is universally supported. Handy when:
- Your design comes from a mesh tool (Blender, ZBrush, Rhino)
- It is scan data (3D scans to mesh)
- You have a topology-optimised or generative design (often only mesh-exportable)
- You need a lighter file for a fast quote
Export at high tolerance (chord deviation 0.01 mm) to avoid facet artefacts on curved surfaces. 3MF is the modern STL successor and works similarly. We also accept OBJ and IGES.
If you have no file
For reverse engineering of a physical part: 2D technical drawings with dimensions work, or detailed photos with measurements for simple geometries.
For complex organic shapes without CAD: 3D scanning yields a mesh we can rework into production-ready CAD. Our engineers arrange on-site scanning or refer to a scan bureau.
For a broken part you want reproduced: send us the part plus context (what it is used for, where it broke). We advise the fastest path to a print-ready file.