Convert IGES to STL
Convert a IGES file to STL in your browser. Free, no upload, no sign-up.
Convert IGES files to STL directly in your browser. The converter reads the exact IGES geometry with the OpenCascade CAD kernel running in WebAssembly, tessellates it at the quality you choose and writes a STL file. Nothing is uploaded, there is no file size limit beyond your computer's memory, and the result downloads instantly. STL is accepted by every slicer and 3D printer, so it is the safest format to hand to anyone who needs to print your model.
How to convert IGES to STL
- 1Drop your IGES file
Drag a .iges file onto the box above or click to choose one. Surfaces are sewn and tessellated with OpenCascade. Files with gaps between surfaces may produce open meshes that need repair before printing.
- 2Pick the mesh quality
Fine gives smoother curves and a larger file, coarse keeps large assemblies light. The default suits most 3D printing jobs.
- 3Check the preview
The model renders in 3D so you can confirm it loaded correctly. Dimensions, volume and triangle count are shown next to it; open edges are flagged if the mesh is not watertight.
- 4Download the STL
Adjust the export options if needed and click download. Colors, textures and materials are dropped because STL cannot store them. Multiple objects are merged into one triangle soup; units are not recorded, so make sure the model is already in millimeters.
What is a IGES file?
IGES is the CAD exchange format that preceded STEP, dating back to 1980. It stores surfaces and curves rather than solids, so files often need stitching before they can be used. It is still common in tooling and older supplier archives.
Commonly used by: legacy CAD, mold and tooling shops, surfacing workflows
Surfaces are sewn and tessellated with OpenCascade. Files with gaps between surfaces may produce open meshes that need repair before printing.
What is a STL file?
STL is the oldest and most widely supported 3D printing format. It stores nothing but a list of triangles, with no color, texture, unit or scale information. Every slicer and almost every 3D tool can read it, which is why it is still the default exchange format for printable models.
Commonly used by: 3D printer slicers (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio), CAD export, Thingiverse / Printables
STL is accepted by every slicer and 3D printer, so it is the safest format to hand to anyone who needs to print your model.
IGES vs STL
| IGES | STL | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Initial Graphics Exchange Specification | Stereolithography |
| Encoding | Text | Text or binary |
| Geometry type | Exact (B-rep / curves) | Triangle mesh |
| Colors | Yes | No |
| Textures | No | No |
| Materials | No | No |
| Stores units | Yes | No |
| Multiple objects | Yes | No |
| Typical use | legacy CAD, mold and tooling shops, surfacing workflows | 3D printer slicers (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio), CAD export, Thingiverse / Printables |