Having trouble with file formats?

This guide improves results in the 3D model weight calculator by explaining the best exports for STL/OBJ/DXF/STEP, how to avoid zero volume DXF issues, and how units (mm) and mesh quality affect extrusion weight and weight per foot estimates.

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Quick summary: For the most reliable results, export Binary STL in millimeters. We also accept GLB/GLTF, OBJ, and DXF when it contains true 3D faces (entities: 3DFACE or POLYFACE_MESH). STEP support is basic.

Supported formats in this app

All calculations assume millimeters for size and cm³/grams as base units.

Top CAD apps and the best export for this calculator

1) AutoCAD / BricsCAD / DraftSight
  • Best: DXF with 3DFACE or POLYFACE_MESH (ASCII). Ensure you export a 3D model, not a 2D drawing.
  • Alternative: STL (if mesh available).

Self‑check: open DXF in a text editor and search for 3DFACE / POLYFACE_MESH.

2) SketchUp (Pro vs Web)
  • Best (both Pro & Web): STL (Binary, mm). In Pro use the "SketchUp STL" extension; in SketchUp Web use the built-in STL export (Download → STL) if available.
  • DXF option (Pro only): File → Export → 3D Model → DXF → Options: units mm, check Triangulate all faces, optionally Export two‑sided faces, uncheck Export Edges. Prefer ASCII.
  • Note about SketchUp Web: The Web version typically does not expose the full DXF export options that Pro has. If you need a DXF for downstream CAD, export STL and convert it with another tool, or use Pro’s DXF 3D‑faces export.

If DXF yields zero volume, it likely exported edges only. Re‑export with 3D faces (Pro), or prefer STL.

3) Fusion 360
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm). Make → 3D Print → Refinement as needed.
  • Also good: OBJ or GLB via exporters.
  • DXF: Usually 2D sketches; not recommended for 3D solids.
4) SolidWorks
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm).
  • Also good: OBJ (with faces) or GLB via plugins.
  • DXF: Typically 2D for drawings/flat patterns; not ideal for volume.
5) Rhino
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm) or OBJ.
  • DXF: Choose a scheme that exports meshes (not lines-only). Ensure faces are exported.
6) Onshape
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm) via Export.
  • Also good: GLTF/GLB or OBJ via translators.
7) FreeCAD
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm).
  • Also good: OBJ. DXF can work only if 3D faces are exported; many workbenches output 2D.
8) Autodesk Inventor
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm).
  • Also good: OBJ or GLB via add‑ins.
  • DXF: Primarily 2D drawings; not recommended for 3D solids.
9) Siemens NX
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm).
  • Also good: OBJ/GLTF via translators.
10) CATIA / Creo
  • Best: STL (Binary, mm).
  • Also good: OBJ/GLB via exporters.

DXF specifics

General export tips