Introduction
This guide introduces the 3D printing pre-process, and introduces the different associated file types. The typical workflow is shown below.
- Upload an .stl model to the slicer.
- Configure settings for the print.
- "Slice". The software will output a GCode file that can be uploaded to the printer/.
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A slicer takes a 3D model, typically in the form of a STL or 3MF file, slices it into layers, and creates instructions for a 3D printer in the form of GCode.
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Most FDM prints are not solid. Slicers partially hollow the models by filling internal areas with a self supporting pattern called infill, surrounded by a solid shell formed of perimeters. This will be discussed in more detail in a later guide.
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STL files describe 3D models using interlocking triangles, often referred to as a "mesh".
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STLs contain very little information secondary information. One of the most impactful pieces of info omitted is units. All measurements in an STL are unitless.
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3MF files are a newer option. They are designed with 3D manufacturing in mind (3MF stands for 3D Manufacturing.)
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3MF files most commonly describe geometry as a mesh of triangles, like STLs.
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3MF files contain unit, color, and material information. Importantly, they can also contain slicer settings (printer, infill, walls, etc.)
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Saving in a slicer outputs a 3MF file. This file will retain all configuration and settings and can be opened to continue work or edit at a later date. When processing orders always upload the 3MF file or files.
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Editing geometry in an STL or 3MF is called mesh editing. Slicers like Bambu Studio and Prusa Slicer provide some basic mesh editing tools. For more complex mesh editing, there are free programs like Blender and Meshmixer.
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GCode is not a description of geometry in the same way as a STL or 3MF. Instead, it is a list of instructions for a manufacturing machine, like a 3D printer.
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You do not have to write GCode manually. Instead, the slicer will create it for you. It can be useful to understand and edit GCode for advanced troubleshooting.
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When processing orders always upload the GCode file or files.
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CAD (Computer Aided Design) files are a different description of geometry than STLs, 3MFs or GCode.
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CAD is a very broad umbrella, but generally CAD files are defined by their ability to be edited with ease. CAD is how many of the models 3D printed are made.
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Some slicers will except CAD files as an input, but the standard input is a STL or 3MF.
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There are many different file extensions under the CAD umbrella, including .step, .sldprt, and .f3d.
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Prusa and Voron 3D Printers: Prusa Slicer
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BambuLabs 3D Printers: Bambu Studio
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Markforged 3D Printers: Eiger
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